Meet Rabbi Yisroel & Chaya Baumgarten
Directors of Chabad of the Covinas
With open hearts and a passionate vision, Rabbi Yisroel and Chaya Baumgarten founded Chabad of the Covinas to bring Jewish life, learning, and connection to the communities of Covina, West Covina, Azusa, Glendora, San Dimas, Baldwin Park, and the surrounding areas.
Rabbi Yisroel was raised as a second-generation Chabad Shliach in Rockaway, NJ. He studied in yeshivas across New York, New Jersey, and Florida, as well as at 770 Chabad Headquarters in Brooklyn, and received his rabbinic ordination from the esteemed Rabbi Yaroslavsky of Kiryat Malachi, Israel. He has led Passover Seders for Jews around the world, including in Copacabana, Brazil; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and Miami, Florida. In addition, he has volunteered with the Aleph Institute, visiting incarcerated Jews in nearly 25 states across the U.S., bringing connection, support, and Torah inspiration to those in need.
Chaya grew up in Pasadena as a second-generation Chabad Shlucha. She studied in California and Israel before dedicating five years to the Friendship Circle in Stamford, Connecticut, where she directed programs for children with special needs and their families.
Together, Rabbi Yisroel and Chaya bring energy, warmth, and heart to everything they do—whether it’s teaching Torah, hosting meaningful holiday events, organizing programs for all ages, or visiting community members in their homes. Their approach reflects the Chabad philosophy of love for every Jew and joy in every mitzvah.
The Baumgartens are proud parents to their daughter, Menucha, who is a true part of their Shlichus, bringing joy, light, and inspiration to their home and community.
Chabad of the Covinas continues to grow as a grassroots community effort, fueled entirely by the generosity of kindhearted supporters and the Baumgartens’ unwavering commitment to making Jewish life accessible, vibrant, and alive.
Join us—learn, connect, celebrate, and be part of a growing community that feels like family.