YP Women’s Club Committee
Dor Chadash Award
YP Women’s Club Committee
YP Women’s Club Creation Story (by Ashlyn Rosen):
Before my daughter was born, I was at shul almost every week, attending events and shiurim whenever possible. But after her arrival, motherhood’s demands—nap schedules, mealtimes, and more—made it hard to attend regularly. I began to understand why many moms with young children stayed away and realized how much I missed the connection with women at various life stages: moms, singles, newlyweds, and beyond.
Noticing the great, inclusive programming for men at Beth Jacob, like smoked meat nights and whiskey tastings, I felt women could benefit from something similar. I envisioned a space for YP women to connect outside of shul hours, tailored to those balancing children, work, and other commitments.
With my friend Devorah, we shared the idea with Rabbi Robbie, who, along with Jonathan Stern and Robyn, gave their full support. We formed a committee representing women from all walks of life, and nearly two years later, the YP Women’s Club has fostered a sense of community and belonging, helping women connect deeply with one another and with our shul, no matter their life stage.
Gabriella Klein
Gabriella was born and raised in Los Angeles, right here in Pico-Robertson. She currently works as a technical program manager at a software company, but previously enjoyed a career as a professional pastry chef. After deciding to switch paths, she returned to school and graduated magna cum laude from Colorado State University. Gabriella continues to express her creativity through food by hosting lavish Shabbos meals. She resides in the neighborhood with her beloved dog, Cami.
While newer to the Beth Jacob community as an adult, as a kid, she grew up in its halls and even worked in youth groups! Upon moving back to Pico, Beth Jacob was the obvious choice, especially given the wonderful YP community. Gabriella joined the YP Women’s committee to bring a single’s perspective to the group, and to help ensure that the YP women’s community speaks to all kinds of women.
Lauren Packer
Lauren Packer was born and raised in Los Angeles, leaving for 4 brief years to attend the University of Maryland where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree and snagged a husband. Lauren earned her master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology and is a dedicated pediatric speech therapist, with over a decade of experience. When she’s not working with other children in the community, she’s spending time with her own 3 beautiful children.
Lauren and Daniel have been very involved in the Beth Jacob community for the last 12 years, and were honored as the Dor Chadash honorees in 2018 due to their leadership in the Young Professional community. Lauren is also currently on the Board of Directors of Beth Jacob Congregation.
Giuliette Recht (Gipsman)
Giuliette Recht (Gipsman) was born in San Diego, California, where she first met her husband, Aaron, at the age of 15. They married in 2013 and now have three children, ages 7, 4, and 3 months.
With a background in psychology, specializing in supporting college students, Giuliette previously dedicated her career to helping young adults navigate the challenges of higher education. Though she is currently focused on her family as a stay-at-home mom, she continues to bring her expertise and empathy to all areas of her life.
Giuliette is deeply committed to building a strong sense of community within Beth Jacob. She enjoys planning YP Women’s Club events that bring people together, creating opportunities for connection and growth. She feels fortunate to be part of such a thriving and special Beth Jacob community, one that supports mutual advancement and strengthens the bonds among its members.
Ashlyn Rosen
Ashlyn was born in California, raised in Texas, and moved to Los Angeles in her 20s, where she joined the Beth Jacob community. Shortly after, she met her husband, Jon, and together they are raising their adorable two-year-old daughter, Penelope.
Ashlyn is pursuing her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and is set to graduate this May. She also teaches transitional kindergarten at a local Jewish day school. Outside of the classroom, she runs a small Judaica boutique, where she blends her creativity with her passion for giving back to the community. When she has free time, Ashlyn enjoys baking—pies, cookies, anything sweet—but her favorite thing to bake is challah.
Amy Savetsky
Amy Savetsky is a native Californian who likes to keep her calendar full. She's often juggling multiple projects as a managing director and head of client services at SJR, as a mama to her nearly three-year-old toddler Julien, as a frequent flier between LA and NY, and as an active member in the vibrant Jewish community, especially the Beth Jacob Community where she is a current member of the Board of Directors as well as a member of the YP Women’s Club committee.
Odeliah Shirakhoon
A Baltimore native turned Los Angeles transplant, Odeliah brings East Coast charm to the West Coast. After moving to LA with her family at 13, she pursued higher education, earning her Bachelor’s degree from Thomas Edison State University. At just 18, she started her own event planning business, specializing in weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs. When she's not planning unforgettable celebrations, Odeliah loves spending time with her two boys, whether that's on the basketball court at sports games, or exploring new destinations through travel.
Odeliah joined Beth Jacob in 2019 and has since become a member of the YP Women’s Club committee, assisting with their fabulous YP community events.
Dana Szafranski
Dana Szafranski, an LA native, met and married her husband, Avri, who was originally from New Jersey. He wisely agreed to move to her hometown - after all, who can resist this weather? Dana earned her undergraduate degree from Stern College and then tackled her passion for media and tech with a Master’s degree in Digital Communications from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School, because one degree just wasn’t enough!
Dana and Avri joined Beth Jacob after returning to Los Angeles, and they now enjoy the occasional debate over who’s chasing after their wonderful (and energetic) son, Aiden during YP Shabbat services. Dana is a member of the YP Women’s Club committee and loves helping to arrange their fabulous events which bring our Beth Jacob YP women together to meet and socialize.