2 Skokie Natives Make Jewish '36 Under 36' List

SKOKIE, IL — Two young people from Skokie were named to the annual "Double Chai in the Chi: 36 under 36" list of influential young Jewish Chicagoans.

Skokie natives Rebecca Joey Schwab, 29, and Corey Axelrod, 35, were named to the list for making contributions through either their work or free time in the Jewish community and beyond. This year's list features many honorees from health care fields who aided the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Axelrod founded 2axend, an organization dedicated to helping Deaf/hard of hearing people during doctors appointments and in other health care settings. He is also the third-term president of the Illinois Association of the Deaf and is involved with the Jewish Deaf Congress which hosts Hanukkah parties for Deaf/hard of hearing Jewish families.

Schwab founded ChiTribe, an organization that helps young Jewish adults foster friendships and stay involved in their community. ChiTribe connects participants to each other and to local Jewish organizations through weekly newsletters and assigning "cluster groups."

The list is compiled each year by Oy!Chicago and the Jewish United Fund. The name, Double Chai in the Chi, is a nod to the Hebrew word "chai," which represents the number 18.

"This year's incredible honorees have elevated what it means to create real impact," said Stefanie Pervos Bregman, Oy!Chicago's co-founding editor. "From breaking down stereotypes to fostering community, the honorees blend impressive professional success with a unique understanding of how to enrich the lives of those around them."

Check out the list and full bios online.