Family Stories

Ryan and Chaim: Building Pillow Forts

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Ryan and Chaim Tempesco met in 2019 and were married in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. Since then, they’ve shared countless adventures, traveling to destinations like the Amazon Rainforest and the Dead Sea in Israel. In 2024, they decided to make Chicago their home to be closer to communities they care about, which led them to connect with JUF and the Chicago Coalition for Family Building.

Ryan and Chaim are the proud parents of two playful cats and love opening their home to host Shabbat dinners with friends and family. Their journey to parenthood has been shaped by a deep desire to grow their family and a commitment to navigating the unique challenges of adoption as a same-sex couple. Along the way, the resources and support from JUF and the Coalition have been invaluable, offering guidance, encouragement, and community.

While they’re looking forward to involving their children in Jewish life, they’re most excited about the simple joys of parenthood—helping with homework, cheering at games, and building pillow forts.

As grant recipients, they are eager to give back by supporting fundraising efforts, connecting with other LGBTQ+ families, and sharing their story to inspire others on similar journeys. They believe deeply in breaking down stigma surrounding adoption and infertility and building a world where every family feels celebrated.