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Ari Handel, LSW has a diverse range of experience in various roles within the social work field. Starting in 2005, Ari worked as a Behavioral Management Counselor at the Jewish Council for Youth Services. They then transitioned to being a Social Work MSW Intern at MacArthur Middle School in 2011. From 2012 to 2013, Ari served as a Social Worker at Winnetka Public Schools-District 36, providing social and emotional support to students. Moving forward, Ari joined Mayerson JCC in 2013 and took on the responsibilities of an Inclusion and Young Professional Manager. They focused on inclusive services and programming, coordinating with numerous organizations and securing funding for programs. Finally, Ari is currently employed at BBYO as the Senior Director of Wellness and Inclusion, leading initiatives to support teens with diverse needs and mental health challenges. They manage mental health specialists and wellness staff, as well as train and support BBYO staff in various programs and conventions.

Ari Handel, LSW, obtained a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Indiana University Bloomington in the years 2007 to 2011. Later, Handel pursued a Master's degree in Social Work, specializing in Advanced Standing, at the University of Illinois at Chicago: Jane Addams College of Social Work, during 2011 to 2012. Handel also holds various certifications, including Mental Health First Aid Trainer from Youth Mental Health First Aid, and a license as a Licensed Social Worker from the Ohio CSWMFT Board and Illinois Department of Professional Regulation. Additionally, Handel has certifications in CPR, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention from Crisis Prevention Institute, and Type 73- School Social Work from the Illinois State Board of Education.