Jewish Chicago Magazine

When Abby moved to Chicago three years ago, she was looking for a way to honor her mother who passed away from cancer, while deepening her involvement in the Jewish community. Inspired by the mission of Sharsheret—a national organization dedicated to supporting Jewish women and families of all backgrounds facing breast and ovarian cancer—Abby set out to organize a pickleball tournament in her mom’s memory. What started as a single event turned into something much bigger: the creation of Sharsheret’s first Chicago Young Professionals Board and an annual community fundraiser that is now entering its third year. As the board’s chair, the organization has shifted from having minimal young professional engagement to hosting annual events that attracts dozens of Jewish young adults and raise significant funds for cancer support services.

Abby’s Judaism is deeply personal and rooted in her family’s history. It informs how she works, volunteers, and relates to others. She learned early on from her parents—immigrants from the former Soviet Union—that religious freedom and community are precious gifts that carry responsibility.

Age: 30

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Primary gig: Senior User Experience Designer at Allstate

What is your proudest accomplishment? In the wake of October 7, I turned to art as a way to support Israel, creating and selling hand-painted hamsas and donating the proceeds to Magen David Adom. It was a meaningful way to channel my creativity into action during a difficult time.

Describe yourself in 10 words or less: Proud Jew, people-connector, designer, world traveler, outdoor enthusiast, foodie  

A Jew who inspires you: My parents. They immigrated to the United States from the Soviet Union with virtually nothing and worked tirelessly to build a meaningful life for our family. Despite growing up in a place where openly practicing Judaism was difficult, they raised my brother and me to be proud Jews. Their resilience, determination, and commitment to their values have shaped who I am and continue to guide me in both my personal and professional life.

Your best piece of advice: Don’t wait for someone else to create the community you want to be part of. If it doesn’t exist, build it.