WHO WE ARE
Ohev Ger supports converts after conversion - promoting their welfare, success and integration in Israel.
OUR VISION
With all the raging debates surrounding the conversion process, we have lost sight of the converts themselves! Over the past few decades tens of thousands of amazing gerim have joined the Jewish people from all over the world, and it is our honor and duty to welcome them with love.
WHAT WE DO
Our projects support the welfare and integration of converts once they have completed their process.
OUR COMMUNITY
Ohev Ger representatives are dedicated volunteers offering home hospitality, community contacts and professional and other services all around Israel and the Jewish world.
BLESSINGS
From the Chief Rabbi of Israel,
the President of the Great Rabbinical Court
To change one's lifestyle is not an easy thing, and those who do - go through a difficult path. One of the tests our forefather Avraham was given was to "Go forth from your land." How wonderful and appropriate your activity is for those who have taken this step.
I send my blessings to you & all those involved in Ohev Ger, to continue your important work.
- Rav David Lau
OUR STAFF
Rabbi Menachem Weinberg
Founder & Executive Director
For over twenty years Rabbi Weinberg has taught and guided converts from around the world, giving him a unique perspective on the needs and challenges of gerim. He continues to serve as senior lecturer and RAM at Machon Meir. Ordained by the Chief Rabbinate, and certified in mediation and psychotherapy, he also holds academic degrees in computer science and Jewish Studies. He served for a decade as the Rav of yishuv Alon, a joint secular and religious community near Jerusalem, and officiates at weddings for religious and non-religious couples, and of course, converts. Originally from Toronto, he made aliyah 30 years ago, served in the IDF's tank corps, and now lives in Tekoa with his family.
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Dr. Chevy Weiss
Shadchanit & Dating Coach
With over 20 years of experience guiding marriage-minded singles toward the chuppah, Dr. Weiss has facilitated successful shidduchim, led impactful matchmaking events, and authored a widely read blog integrating psychological insight with Torah wisdom on dating and relationships.
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Grounded in the belief that every shidduch is a partnership with Hashem, she brings deep faith together with a highly individualized and compassionate approach, helping hundreds of people take meaningful steps toward marriage.
At Ohev Ger, Dr. Weiss supports converts as they navigate the unique and meaningful journey of building lasting Jewish relationships.
Sarah Smilchensky
Social Worker
Sarah has worked with individuals and families across Israel from a wide range of backgrounds, helping people navigate new environments, manage life transitions, and access the support and resources they need to thrive.
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Originally from Toronto, Sarah made aliyah in 2014 and now lives in Ra’anana with her family. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and brings warmth, professionalism, and deep sensitivity to her work.
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At Ohev Ger, Sarah supports converts as they build their lives in Israel, offering practical guidance, emotional support, and meaningful community connection.
Ted Brandt
Volunteer Coordinator
Originally from Boise, Idaho, Ted found his way to Torah through years of travel around the world, later building his Jewish life in Denver. A musician by training and at heart, his band Klezmer V’od played at countless smachot throughout the United States.
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For more than 35 years, Ted has sponsored and supported many gerim, experiences that shaped his passionate and uniquely personal approach to helping and learning from converts. He now lives in Tekoa, where he enjoys gardening and spending time with his children and grandchildren in Israel and Denver.
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At Ohev Ger, Ted facilitates meaningful connections between gerim and our dedicated volunteers throughout the country.
