OUR STORY
Rabbi Shneur Zalman Yitzhakov and his wife, Rebbetzin Kareen, have dedicated many years of their lives as steadfast emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. With unwavering commitment, they have selflessly offered free counseling and support to anyone in need, regardless of background or circumstance. Despite having limited resources, their tireless efforts have transformed countless lives.
In addition to their outreach, Rabbi Shneur and Kareen are well-known within the community for establishing a kindergarten that welcomed both boys and girls, as well as a Torah study center. Through these initiatives, they have touched the lives of hundreds of families, offering guidance rooted in the timeless teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Their work extended beyond education, as they hosted enriching Jewish evenings for men and women and organized weekly educational activities for children through the "Tzivos Hashem" club, fostering a vibrant community of learning and connection.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances, they were compelled to close the kindergarten. Soon after, tragedy struck when their beloved daughter, Mushki z"l, passed away suddenly at the tender age of six, just after the COVID pandemic. Despite these heartbreaking challenges, Rabbi Shneur and Kareen never lost sight of their dream of creating a "Center of Goodness & Kindness." They pressed on, continuing their work from a small, temporary basement in Ra’anana, all while tirelessly searching for the right space to expand their efforts.
Today, after much perseverance and dedication, that dream is finally coming to fruition. With the space they had been searching for, they are able to continue and expand their activities to serve the community even more. In honor of Mushki’s memory, this incredible couple redoubled their efforts in Chesed. Drawing on their experience and professional training, they created a compassionate space for anyone in need—particularly those struggling with loss, trauma, and anxiety. Their vision and dedication continue to transform lives, and the legacy of love, kindness, and resilience they have built will endure.
MEET THE TEAM
Rabbi Shneur Zalman Yitzhakov
Growing up in Ra'anana in a family of public service emissaries, deeply rooted in Chassidic values, has shaped Rabbi Yitzhakov's lifelong commitment to community outreach and service. His grandfather, Sabba Ari Yitzhakov, a dedicated Chabad Chassid, established a synagogue and began his mission in Ra'anana in 1971.
Rabbi Yitzhakov’s educational journey took him through esteemed yeshivas in Israel and New York, where he formed close connections with renowned rabbis and further deepened his spiritual leadership.
Together with his wife, Kareen, he has continued this mission in both Jerusalem and Ra'anana, where they have established and led Chabad Houses. Over the years, they have initiated numerous community programs, including study groups, Torah classes, Shabbat meals, as well as kindergartens and a youth center.
Now, as their impact grows, they seek to expand to a larger space to accommodate their flourishing activities and reach even more people with their message of faith, community, and spiritual growth.
Rebbetzin Kareen Yitzhakov
Rebbetzin Kareen Yitzhakov grew up in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, until the age of nine. Although raised in a traditional home, her public school education distanced her from religion, yet she often found herself pondering existential questions about God. After earning a degree in Communications from the Open University, she pursued a dream career in media.
A pivotal moment in her life occurred during a visit to New York, where a chance Shabbat encounter led to a deeply emotional experience that transformed her spiritually. Karin is also a teacher and a certified Trauma Counselor, with many years of experience working with children and teenagers.
Meet Our Chairpersons:
David & Nicci Raz
David and Nicci Raz made Aliyah from South Africa in 2019, bringing with them a deep love for Israel and a strong commitment to Jewish life and community. Their family has a profound connection to Chabad and the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, which continue to inspire their dedication to Torah, mitzvot, and chesed.
As active members and founders of the new Chabad Raanana Centre, David and Nicci play a pivotal role in fostering a warm, inclusive, and spiritually uplifting environment for the community. Their unwavering support for the Rabbi and Rebbetzin reflects their passion for strengthening Jewish identity and connection in Raanana and beyond.
With a shared vision of unity and growth, David and Nicci are committed to ensuring that Chabad Raanana thrives as a beacon of light, learning, and love for every Jew, regardless of background.