About
Chimes Israel is a non-profit organization that has been working since 1991 to improve the quality of life for infants, children, youth, and adults with disabilities by developing advanced and innovative programs and providing professional services.
Chimes Israel operates 27 frameworks and programs for more than 1,200 people and their families. The organization works for people with various disabilities, such as intellectual developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health issues, autism, developmental disabilities, and more.
Service recipients range from six months old to old age, regardless of race, nationality, or religion, across a wide geographical area in 14 local authorities, with the support and supervision of the Ministries of Welfare, Health, and Education, and in cooperation with the National Insurance Institute, the Shalem Fund, foundations and donors, parents, and families.
The organization’s frameworks and services include rehabilitative daycare centers for preschoolers, afterschool clubs in special education schools, therapeutic nursing day centers for adults, sheltered workshops, supported employment in the open job market, mental health employment support, and a wide range of leisure activities for the elderly with disabilities.
At Chimes Israel, we believe that a person with a disability, like any person, has the right and ability to live a life of dignity and independence, while realizing their inherent personal potential.
The organization vision is to lead in the development of programs for people with disabilities, while providing patient-centered service at the highest professional level in the field, using advanced work methods, and to help service recipients realize their potential and be active partners in Israeli society.
Chimes Israel's Mission
- To work towards improving the quality of life for people with disabilities from various sectors, with an emphasis on promoting independence and equal opportunities for participation and inclusion in the community in all areas of life.
- To foster partnership and involvement of families / guardians in rehabilitation and treatment processes as an integral part of providing solutions for people with disabilities.
- To develop unique programs and models in the field of rehabilitation and treatment for people with disabilities.
Our Vision
- To provide individualized, person-centered support for people with disabilities, with services tailored to each person’s unique needs, goals, st
- To deliver the highest standards of care and professional service while continuously striving to improve and grow.
- To lead the development of innovative programs and services that create new opportunities and improve quality of life for people with disabilities.
By the Numbers
Service Recipients
Chimes Israel Team
Chimes Israel employs more than 650 dedicated professionals and is supported by approximately 100 active volunteers. Our multidisciplinary team includes experts in rehabilitation, therapy, nursing, special education, and the paramedical professions, all working together to provide compassionate, high-quality care and support.
We are deeply committed to the well-being and professional growth of our staff. Chimes Israel invests in ongoing training, continuing education, and professional development to ensure our teams remain at the forefront of best practices and continue to provide the highest standard of service to the children and adults we support.
Senior Management Team
Jorge Zimmermann, MBA
CEO
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Jorge Zimmermann has served as the CEO of the Chimes Israel Association since 2000. Jorge has been engaged in providing special needs services, family counseling and staff management for over 30 years. He holds a BA in special education and theater, an MA in educational counseling, an MBA. He also has a teaching certificate.
Shirley Trousil Frankel
Chief Professional Officer
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Shirley Frenkel has been providing services to people with disabilities and their families since 2013. This includes positions as Chimes Israel’s director of early childhood and after school programs. She holds a BA and MA in social work, group facilitation, and parental guidance.
Shay Benyamin, CPA
CFO
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Shay Benjamin has been in accounting and finance positions since 2010, starting his career at the accounting firm Ernst & Young. In 2017, he was the CFO of Chimes Israel. Shay holds a BA in economics and accounting and an MBA.
Tamar Elipaz
Head of Human Resources Department
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Tamar Elipaz has over 15 years of management and HR experience. She has deep expertise in recruitment, training, and employee welfare in large private companies. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources and Organizational Consulting. She joined the human resources field at Chimes Israel in 2016 and has been serving as the director since 2022.
Lilach Shushan
CEO Assistant and Executive Secretary
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Lilach Shushan has extensive experience in managing senior executive offices, coordinating headquarters activities, and providing services to internal and external stakeholders. She is a graduate of bookkeeping college and Ultima College with a concentration in interior design and architecture.
Area Managers
Havazelet Amrami
Director of Adult Rehabilitation and Employment Programs
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Havatzelet Amrami, Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and Humanities, Master’s degree in Public Policy, group facilitator for people with disabilities with 35 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation for people with disabilities.
Michal Yabo
Director of Rehabilitative Early Childhood Services
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An expert occupational therapist with 25 years of experience, with deep specialization in child development. Holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Occupational Therapy, and advanced training in educational administration. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience in rehabilitation day care centers and lead significant developmental advancement processes. I believe in the power of cooperation between the family and the professional team as a basis for the success and advancement of toddlers.
Moti Schwartz
Director of Afterschool Programs
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A senior manager in the field of after-school clubs in special education, with over 20 years of experience in non-formal education frameworks for children and youth with special needs. Holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Educational Systems Management. A parent guide and group facilitator, specializing in guiding families and professionals in coping with special education challenges and promoting tailored educational processes.
