Alison Karmin

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Helping others from the outside in -- that's one way you could describe Alison Karmin's approach to tikkun olam. It starts with her full-time work caring for others' physical needs as a physician assistant and extends to the way she gives back through her time and leadership.

And she's a natural leader. At NorthShore University HealthSystem, Alison rose quickly to the position of Lead PA, in which she is responsible for training others, and in just her second year on JUF's YLD Board, Alison was elected to serve as vice president.

Alison also regularly volunteers with the JUF Uptown Cafe and the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital; she believes that giving back through engaging and interacting with people is the way to make Chicago stronger.

AGE:
27

PRIMARY GIG:
Lead Physician Assistant in Orthopedic Surgery at NorthShore University HealthSystem 

ON THE SIDE:
Michigan Wolverine fan, marathon runner, traveler. I love visiting friends from all walks of life, from grade school, camp, semester abroad and college.

RELATIONSHIP STATUS:
In a relationship

SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME:
I was a ballerina for nearly 20 years and performed in the Joffrey Nutcracker's children's cast.

IF TIME AND MONEY WERE LIMITLESS, I WOULD:
Travel to countries with limited health care and volunteer my time and services. I am passionate about my career and giving back. I would love the opportunity to learn about other cultures, the needs of the communities and provide high quality health care to those in need.

CHICAGO'S JEWISH COMMUNITY IN 10 YEARS:
I hope that we can further engage those new to the community, starting with those graduating from college. My goal as a member of JUF's YLD Board is to sustain involvement beyond the initial social gatherings and help people connect to the Chicago Jewish community's mission. Through l'dor vador, we will continue to educate the current and future generations on the importance of giving back, enriching Jewish traditions and tikkun olam. 