Who We Are

Over 30 years ago, Jack Forgash founded Just One Life, dedicating himself to supporting Israeli families and ensuring the birth of thousands of babies. As Chairman, he continues to champion its mission and build lasting partnerships.

A successful real estate entrepreneur, Jack is also a devoted philanthropist, supporting causes like Yeshiva University, Ateret Kohanim, and local and global Jewish initiatives. A proud resident of Teaneck, NJ, he shares his passion for community and faith with his wife, Carole, their children, and grandchildren.

Steve Adelsberg has been a close friend, mentor, and advisor to Rabbi Marty Katz for over 50 years. A highly successful professional, Steve is a partner in his accounting firm and has also achieved success in real estate. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve is deeply committed to various charitable causes, including his involvement with Just One Life, the Manhattan Beach Kollel and Shul ("The Shtieble"), Yeshiva of Flatbush, Bet El, Yeshiva University, Yeshivos Bais HaTalmud, the Bianna Chassidic Dynasty, the IDF, Ateret Kohanim, and numerous hospital and cancer initiatives.

 

 

Madelaine Gitelman, a graduate of the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University, made aliyah in 1976 with her husband and children, settling in Jerusalem. In 1988, she joined the early efforts of Nefesh Achat B’Yisrael, helping establish its professional foundation and counseling pregnant women in crisis across Israel.

Over the years, Madelaine played a pivotal role in expanding the organization’s services and building its team. She now serves as Chairperson of Just One Life, Israel, continuing her dedication to supporting women and families in need.

 

Rabbi Marty Katz, Founding Executive Vice President of Just One Life, has dedicated his life to supporting families in need and raising significant funds for the organization and other vital causes. With decades of experience, he has also served as a consultant and advisor to numerous non-profits.

A passionate educator and Kiruv leader, Rabbi Katz has held key roles in YU Torah Leadership Seminars, outreach programs in Australia and the Soviet Union, and as Executive Director of Lincoln Square Synagogue. He also taught at Ramaz and earned Semicha from RIETS and a Master’s in Jewish Education from Ferkauf at Yeshiva University

Ari brings extensive experience in fundraising, relationship building, and strategic leadership to his role at Just One Life. With a creative, entrepreneurial mindset, he develops innovative strategies to secure essential resources, foster donor relationships, and drive significant financial support.

A natural people person, Ari excels at building trust and cultivating meaningful connections. His strengths include strategic thinking, problem-solving, integrity, and exceptional communication skills, all of which enhance his ability to lead and inspire. Passionate and driven, Ari is dedicated to advancing Just One Life's mission with professionalism, curiosity, and a touch of humor.

Chaya Katzin, Masters of Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work,  Certified social work supervisor for Bar Ilan University, specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from Hadassah University Hospital's Center for Treatment of Traumatic Stress and Anxiety Disorders.

Currently, Chaya serves as the Director and Senior Social Worker at our organization, where she leads our team and oversees the supervision of social work students in partnership with Bar Ilan University.

Sara Gordon, B.A. in Psychology, Concordia University, Master’s Degree in Drama Therapy from New York University. Trained and experienced in Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).

Sara is a case manager and therapist at Just One Life.

Daniella Cohen is a licensed social worker both in NY State and Israel. Daniella earned her  B.A. from Stern college and her Masters in Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. Daniella recently completed the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at the Family Institute in Jerusalem. Clinical experience in macro social work, providing perspective on how individuals fit into their community systems.

Daniella is a case manager and therapist at Just One Life.

Shoshi Goodinger, B.A. in Social Work from Hadassah College and is currently studying for a Master's Degree at the Hebrew University

She has extensive experience working with youth in need.

Shoshi was an intern at Just One Life, and is now Coordinator of Groups and is Director of Special Projects

Chani Meital, Masters of Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University. Formerly Director of Social Work at the Respiratory and Rehabilitation Department and Social Worker at the Neuromuscular and Valerian Clinic and the Spina Bifida Clinic at Alyn Hospital. There she provided emotional support and guidance to families of children with special needs  and assisted them in exercising their rights and obtaining the support they were eligible to receive from the authorities. She is experienced in group therapy and  a certified Mental Health Trauma First Responder by the Psychotrauma & Crisis Response Unit of United Hatzalah.

Chani is a case manager and therapist at Just One Life.