About
A new approach to supporting mothers.
Welcome to The Menucha Center. A beautiful new destination for Jewish mothers to move, learn, connect, recharge, and enjoy a little time that's entirely their own.
Our mission
The Menucha Center brings Jewish mothers together in an accessible, welcoming space for trusted health education, preventive wellness, community resources, and meaningful connection. We build relationships and offer support before needs become crises, strengthening mothers and the families and communities around them.
Our vision
A community where every mother feels connected, valued, and supported — and caring for her wellbeing is a shared priority. Where lasting friendships and accessible support help mothers thrive, strengthen family relationships, and nurture a culture of care across generations.
Why this matters
Motherhood can be deeply meaningful while also carrying a real physical, emotional and logistical load — health appointments get postponed, questions go unanswered, resources can be difficult to navigate, and time for exercise, friendships or preventive care can feel unrealistic. Help is often found only after a challenge has become significant.
Prevention. Connection. Access. A mother shouldn't have to reach a breaking point before making space for herself.
We don't duplicate — we connect
Strengthening what's already here.
Chicago is home to exceptional healthcare providers, nonprofits and community organizations. The Menucha Center is not designed to recreate those services.
Instead, we aim to strengthen awareness, access and partnership — helping mothers understand the resources available to them and connect with appropriate organizations when needed.
How we partnerLeadership
Meet Livya AranovFounder & Founding Director
I'm Livya—a wife, mother of four, registered nurse, and Founder of The Menucha Center.
Over the past ten years, I've worked in labor and delivery, women's health nursing, lactation support, community health nursing, and medical advocacy. One of my favorite parts of this work has always been getting to know people—hearing their stories, talking through their questions, and helping them find the support they need.
For years, I've dreamed of a place where mothers could find many of those things under one roof. Somewhere you could take a class, ask a question, meet a friend, or sit down with a cup of coffee and have a good conversation. A place where you could feel comfortable walking in on your own and look forward to coming back.
That's where the idea for The Menucha Center began.
I wanted to bring trusted health education, wellness, connection, and helpful resources together in a space that feels warm and easy to be in. Whether you're raising little ones, navigating the teenage years, or finding your rhythm with grown children, I hope you'll find something here for you.
With the encouragement and generosity of our community, this longtime dream is taking shape. I'm grateful to everyone helping bring it to life. I look forward to welcoming you and helping make The Menucha Center a place where you feel comfortable, connected, and at home.
Livya Aranov, RN-BSN