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Our Team

The people behind the mission.

Mission Leadership

Building and supporting the future of AZ House.

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Eric founded AZ House in 2016. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from a single residence in Jerusalem to two residences serving individuals in recovery, and most recently, the opening of AZ House USA in Baltimore. Recognized for his unwavering commitment to the organization's mission, Eric has led AZ House with vision, perseverance, and compassion while remaining true to its core values.

Eric Levitz

Founder & Executive Director
 

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Brian brings years of residential treatment experience and a degree in Human Services with an emphasis in Addiction Counseling to AZ House. As Director of the Jerusalem Branch, he oversees operations and resident development. What drives him most is building genuine connections and helping residents develop the tools and confidence to create lasting recovery.

Brian Surasky

Clinical Director & Director

of AZ House Jerusalem

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Having struggled with addiction himself, Aron feels deeply connected to the mission of AZ House. After the program helped change his own life, he dedicated himself to expanding its impact through strategy, growth, and development. What drives him most is witnessing the transformation of residents and knowing that every day brings the opportunity to change lives.

Aron Fried

Director of Strategy & Operations 

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Tamima Levitz has been an integral part of AZ House for the past four years, with a key role in the organization’s financial management and organizational compliance. She is also a regular presence on Shabbat and at events, contributing to the warm, family-centered environment of the house. Together with Eric, she helps model a healthy, stable relationship and a sense of home for the men in the program.

Temima Levitz

Director of Finnance

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Shmaya entered the recovery field to give back to the Jewish community and help address one of its greatest challenges. He believes addiction is a community problem that requires a community solution, and is inspired by AZ House's commitment to providing exceptional recovery completely free of charge.

Shmaya Honickman

Director of Enrichment &

Staff Development

Program Leadership

Leading recovery and resident services across AZ House locations.

Jerusalem

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After experiencing the life-changing impact of recovery firsthand, Mordy returned to AZ House to help others receive the same opportunity. He oversees the daily resident experience, providing structure, accountability, and support while helping each individual build the foundation for lasting recovery and a meaningful life.

Mordechai Rosenbluth

Senior Program Staff
 

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As a graduate of AZ House, Charles understands the recovery journey from personal experience. He now leads the Transitional Living Program, helping residents take the next step toward independence while staying connected to the community that helped change his own life. He believes recovery is about finding hope, purpose, and a place to belong.

Charles Schwinger

Director of Transitional Living

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Adam believes deeply in the mission of AZ House and its commitment to providing recovery without financial barriers. Inspired by the opportunity he found through the program, he embraces its pay-it-forward philosophy and is dedicated to helping residents build the confidence and foundation needed to successfully return to society.

Adam Dov

Program Staff

Baltimore

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Keke's own recovery journey inspired him to help others achieve long-term sobriety and inner peace. Having experienced the impact of AZ House firsthand, he is committed to creating the same warm, supportive environment that allows residents to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and hope.

Yitzchok M. Goldfarb 

Senior Program Staff
 

Clinical Board

Professional guidance supporting the AZ House recovery model.

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Gershon is an accomplished

psychotherapist, assisting individuals for many years. Gershon's extensive knowledge and skill in CBT, EFT, Gestalt, and behavioral work have proven successtul in helping various cases through psycho-dynamic therapy. In addition, Gershon facilitates therapeutic groups at the AZ House.

Gershon Schwimmer

MSc
 

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Dr. Jonathan Ringo is CEO of Convergence, a healthcare company. He was previously President of Sinai Hospital of Baltimore and Chief Medical Information Officer at Northwell Health System. He is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology with awards for research and teaching.

Dr. Jonathan Ringo

MD

Rabbinical Supervision

Guidance and oversight from trusted rabbinical leadership.

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Rabbi Jamie Cowland is the

CEO of Justifi, a non-profit in Jerusalem. He has decades of experience in Jewish education and community outreach, previously serving as Director of Education at Aish HaTorah. He is also knowledgeable in addiction recovery.

Rabbi Jamie Cowland

Rabbi
 

Health & Wellness

Supporting physical health, discipline, and personal growth.

Aaron leads “Foga,” a weekly blend of yoga and movement designed specifically for the guys at AZ House. Through a mix of stretching, mindfulness, and physical challenge, he creates a space for residents to slow down, reconnect, and strengthen both body and mind.

Aaron Fogal

Athletic Coordinator
 

Steve leads a weekly meditation group focused on mindfulness, reflection, and finding balance in recovery. Through guided meditation and hikes in nature, he helps residents slow down, reconnect with themselves, and develop tools for greater awareness and inner peace.

Steve

Meditation and wellness

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