Promoting Jewish genetic health since 1999.
The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics provides educational resources related to hereditary cancers and genetic disorders more common among individuals of Jewish descent. We work closely with community members, clergy, healthcare professionals, and partner organizations to raise awareness of these issues and available support options, including our own low-to-no cost genetic counseling and genetic screening programs.
Originally founded as The Chicago Center for Jewish Genetic Disorders in 1999, the Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics today offers resources to communities across North America and the world, while continuing its service focus in the Chicago Jewish community.
The Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics is a supporting foundation of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, and is supported in part by the Michael Reese Health Trust.
Articles and Events
When Biology Meets the Bar: Genetic Testing, Reproductive Health, & Policy (CLE)
On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the Sarnoff Center co‑hosted a hybrid CLE program with the Women’s Bar Association of
Gut Check: Gastrointestinal Health and Cancer Risk
In honor of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, this webinar led by the Sarnoff Center’s genetic counselor, Scott Weissman,
Babka & BRCA: Exploring the Genetic Links to Cancer
On Sunday, March 22nd, 2026, the Sarnoff center joined the Makom Solel Lakeside community for an engaging program on
