We sat down with Rabbi Yaakov Landman, Junior TorahMates Coordinator, to learn more about his journey to Oorah, his role, and the impact he’s making on families through the TorahMates program.
Can you share a bit of your personal background and how you came to work at Oorah?
I grew up in Baltimore and spent my years learning in yeshivot (schools for Jewish studies) in New York, New Jersey, and Eretz Yisrael. After my time in kollel (institute for advanced Talmudic studies), I wanted to find something that fit my skillset and personality—a role where I could connect with people and make a difference. That’s why I joined TorahMates, and I’ve loved it ever since.
What do you do?
As the Junior TorahMates Coordinator for the boys, my role has a unique twist. I don’t just focus on the boys themselves—I’m also in touch with their parents and work with the entire family. Parents often reach out with questions, and through these interactions, I get to build meaningful connections with them as well. It’s really a family-oriented approach to ensuring the kids have a great learning experience.
Who are the kids in the TorahMates program, and how do they get involved?
The kids in TorahMates come from a variety of backgrounds. Many parents are reaching out to us to help their child transition from public school to Jewish school, while others simply want their children to learn more about their Jewish heritage. The program is designed to meet kids where they are and help fill in the gaps in their Jewish knowledge. Whatever topic a child wants to learn more about, we match them with a mentor who can guide them at their own pace – after school hours, of course!
What does a typical day at work look like?
Busy! I spend a lot of my time reaching out to new TorahMates and following up with existing ones. For new TorahMates, my focus is to help them get into the “learning groove”. At the same time, I make sure to stay connected and check in with everyone to see how they’re doing.
How can individuals get the most out of their experience with TorahMates?
It’s all about building a connection. Shmoozing and creating a real relationship with your TorahMate makes all the difference. When there’s a strong connection, the learning is more enjoyable and impactful for both sides.
“One mother told me that her son practically grabs the phone when his TorahMate calls because he’s so excited to learn.”
What part of your job gives you the biggest thrill?
The biggest thrill for me is seeing the long-term growth in the boys I work with. When a partnership has been learning together for a while, and I hear from the mentor about how much their TorahMate is growing, it’s incredibly rewarding. Watching that transformation unfold over time is what keeps me inspired every day.
Can you share a particularly impactful or memorable experience you’ve had in this role?
Over my four years here, the sincerity of our TorahMates has left a deep impression on me. Seeing how they’re transforming their lives makes me feel inspired—and honestly, a little jealous of them! I love hearing from parents about how much their kids enjoy learning with their TorahMates. One mother told me that her son practically grabs the phone when his TorahMate calls because he’s so excited to learn. Another shared that her son’s rebbe (Torah teacher) made him a “helper” in class, and she credits it all to TorahMates. Stories like these are what make my work so fulfilling and meaningful.
By Oorah Staff
