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 26 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 rehabilitation-communication daycares for infants, after-school programs in special education schools, Reshet (Rasha”t) centers – a continuum of employment services, integration of adults into employment in the open market, therapeutic-nursing centers for adults, and vocational colleges.
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
- Providing tailored solutions for people with disabilities, with an emphasis on adapting to their individual needs, desires, and choices.
- Providing service with high standards of quality and striving for continuous improvement.
- Leading in the development of unique programs and services for people with disabilities.
By the Numbers
Service Recipients
Chimes Israel Team
The organization employs over 650 professionals and has about 100 active volunteers. The organization staff includes professionals with academic education in the fields of rehabilitation and treatment, professionals in the fields of paramedical professions, therapists, therapeutic, rehabilitation, and nursing instructors. The organization works for the well-being of the staff, for training and professional development in their fields of expertise, to professionalize and constantly improve the quality of their work.
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.
Shir-Li Trusil 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 Benjamin, 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 Shoshan
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.
Marketing and Resource Development Department
Ofra Mor Zwick
Israel Resources Director
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Ofra Mor has led Chimes Israel’s domestic fundraising efforts since 2015. She works with major Israel-based international companies and local foundations to fund essential programs and build new centers. She has 30 years of experience in resource development, public relations, and journalism. She is a graduate of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
Pamela Azaria
International Resources Director
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Pamela Azaria brings over 30 years of expertise in business development, fundraising, and marketing communications. She builds meaningful relationships with global donors, including Jewish Federations, ministries, and foundations, aligning their philanthropic interests with the specific program needs. Her work primarily focuses on securing resources for programs essential for the well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Hanan Evyasaf
Digital Manager & Marketing Lead
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Hanan Evyasaf specializes in marketing with extensive experience in brand development, licensing and copyrights, and digital community management. Hanan comes from the business sector and has a background in developing winning strategies for leading brands. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in marketing.
Maayan Maor Amon
Volunteer Engagement Lead
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Maayan Maor is a leader in transformative change in the non-profit volunteer sector. Using a unique win-win approach, she forges impactful connections that empower volunteers while addressing the real needs of people with disabilities. She joined Chimes in 2015, and has over 15 years of experience in this arena. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in communications and a Master’s degree in political communication.
