Chevra Hatzalah, the largest volunteer ambulance corps in the United States, is pleased to announce the hiring of Rabbi Yehiel Kalish as CEO. The board’s choice follows a comprehensive nationwide search that attracted significant interest from a diverse pool of impressive candidates. Rabbi Kalish brings 12 years’ experience as vice president for development and state regulations at Agudath Israel of America. Following his tenure at Agudath Israel, he was the CEO of the S4 Group, a highly successful government and business consulting firm.
Rabbi Kalish has served for the past year and a half as the state Representative for the 16th District in Illinois. He lost the seat in the March Democratic primary to Denyse Wang Stoneback.
“I look forward to meeting with volunteers, care recipients, coordinators, rabbis, and government officials to better learn and understand the intricacies involved,” Rabbi Kalish said. The long-term goal is to ensure Chevra Hatzalah’s nationwide growth and success in “answering the call” swiftly, effectively, and across all demographics of the community.
“Our search for CEO focused on two key priorities,” said Isaac Stern, member of the executive board. “We wanted a CEO with strong, proven leadership qualities, and, secondly, someone who shares the organization’s passion for service to others.”
“Yehiel’s energy and enthusiasm are contagious,” added Zelig Gitelis, executive board member. “With his highly professional background and experience, he is uniquely qualified to maximize and build upon the tremendous accomplishments of the organization.” Rabbi Kalish joins a highly proficient administrative team led by Abraham Wurzberger, executive director.
Chevra Hatzalah serves the five boroughs of New York City, Nassau County, and areas in upstate New York. With over 1,600 volunteer EMTs, paramedics, and doctors and close to 100 ambulances, Hatzalah is renowned worldwide for its legendary and lifesaving response time.
