Our Interfaith Advisory Council represents many religions, including Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Sikhism and Buddhism. The Council serves as an advisory group that helps Gift of Hope staff members better understand how to support the diverse families and hospital staff that we interact with. The Council also helps us identify educational needs within various religious communities. We are privileged to have such a distinguished group of religious leaders agree to be an intricate piece of promoting hope through the gift of life.
Shashank Atre, PhD, is Professor of Natural and Physical Sciences at Robert Morris University Illinois in Chicago. He represents the Hindu faith on our Council.
Karen Danielson is Executive Board Secretary of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago and PACE, and Outreach Director for the Muslim American Society in Chicago. She represents the Muslim faith on our Council.
Rabbi Victor Mirelman is Rabbi Emeritus of West Suburban Temple Har Zion in River Forest, Ill.
Suzanne Martinez is Congregational Outreach for Advocate Aurora’s Illinois Northern Region; Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville and Advocate Sherman in Elgin. Suzanne represents the Roman Catholic Faith tradition.
Father Domingo Hurtado-Badillo is Coordinator Chaplain at St. Alexius Medical Center, Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Shiva Singh Khalsa is President/CEO of Spirit Rising Foundation in Chicago. He represents the Sikh faith on our Council.
