For decades, Rabbi Areyah and Esther Kaltmann have put their hearts and souls into serving the Columbus Jewish community and beyond. Newly married and with a blessing from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the couple set out in 1991 to light up central Ohio, one Jewish person at a time. They began their work in Central Ohio as Directors of Chabad at the Ohio State University.
Over two decades later, the couple, who now have adult children serving Chabad Downtown, oversee Chabad’s many programs, while enthusiastically serving people throughout the state.
What started modestly in a small rented home has grown to include the Lori Schottenstein Chabad Center, as well as LifeTown -- which teaches essential life skills to more than 2,100 Ohio students with special needs in a 5,000-square-foot miniature city — Friendship Circle, the Jewish Business Network, and dozens of other programs.
Whether you want to learn more about Hebrew School, Shabbat and holiday services, or simply have a question, please reach out. While their scope has expanded exponentially, the Kaltmann's remain committed to welcoming each person who walks through their doors. We look forward to seeing you soon!
At LifeTown we believe students learn best by doing, so role playing is a fun way to learn critical life skills… and make mistakes in a safe environment.
At The Friendship Circle, we’ve created an exceptional network of friends for children and teens in need of a mentor.
CGI Columbus will be taking your summer camp experience to a whole new level! We offer swimming, trips, sports teams, dance classes, science-based activities, music, arts and crafts and much more!
