YURA FUND, INC
is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
The Story of YURA FUND.
Yura was a photojournalist documenting everyday life in the years following the collapse of the Soviet Union - a time marked by instability, poverty, and uncertainty. His work captured moments of quiet resilience and reflected an emotional depth that shaped both his photography and the way he moved through the world.
That same depth was part of a more complex reality. Alcohol use disorder shaped the environment around him, affecting not only his life but also the emotional landscape of his family.
Growing up in this context provided an early understanding of both the challenges and the resilience that can emerge in the face of adversity. Resilience was rooted in nature, in the labor of growing our own food, and in close, sustaining connections with others. It was shaped by necessity and persistence—an understanding that would later inform a clinical and professional path in addiction psychiatry.
YURA FUND was founded by Olga Terechin, MD, in memory of her father. It is grounded in the recognition that children affected by parental substance use often carry both vulnerability and strength.
The organization is dedicated to supporting that resilience early—providing tools, stability, and connection to caring communities so that adversity does not define the course of a child’s life.
Meet The Team
Olga Terechin, MD
I am a clinical scientist and psychiatrist in Boston, MA, specializing in the treatment of substance use disorders. As Yura’s daughter, my childhood experiences with poverty, adversity, and the challenges of growing up in a family affected by substance use shaped who I am today. I believe deeply in helping people to find resilience, strength, and hope, even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
Elena Kemaeva
I work as a project manager in Toronto, Canada. As Yura’s youngest daughter, I have walked my own path through hardship and know how important it is to find strength during difficult times. I believe in the power of resilience and the ability of every person to overcome adversity, and I’m honored to be part of a mission that helps others do the same.
Anastasia Nickerson
Anastasia brings both professional expertise and lived experience to YURA Fund. As a first-generation immigrant and young mother, she faced life’s challenges while raising two children, building resilience, and a deep understanding of adversity. She believes food can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and cultural continuity. Anastasia served as President of the Boston chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier and on its international board. Her leadership and fundraising experience shape her contributions to YURA Fund’s mission of supporting children and families.
Tricia Lewis, LICSW
Tricia is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with experience in mental health and substance use treatment, with experience working across community-based settings to improve access to care for vulnerable populations, including those facing homelessness and serious mental illness.
Her professional passion lies in integrating mindfulness into psychotherapy and is also a long-time student and teacher of yoga, using contemplative practices to support emotional healing.
Her personal and professional work reflects the core values of the YURA Fund—resilience, healing, and community. As a Board member, she supports the organization’s mission to foster resilience and hope in individuals and families facing adversity.
Maura Hamel
Advisory Board Member
I have a background working in healthcare, with a focus on neuroimaging research across both pediatric and adult populations. Through my work, I have seen how profoundly early experiences shape development, and how essential it is to provide children with the tools and support they need to navigate challenges beyond their control. I believe that with the right resources, guidance, and caring community, every child has the capacity to build resilience and thrive.
My perspective is also shaped by personal experience with the impact of substance use within a family, deepening my commitment to supporting children facing similar circumstances. I am honored to contribute to YURA Fund’s mission of empowering children with the strength, connection, and lifelong skills they need to build hopeful and fulfilling futures.
Naomi Rosenblum
I am a Senior Clinical Research Coordinator working for an Addiction Psychiatry Research Program in Boston, and I am especially interested in understanding the social and psychological factors that shape resilience and recovery. My passion for YURA Fund is rooted in a commitment to supporting children and families affected by adversity. I believe that early intervention, strong communities, and compassionate care can help young people build resilience and thrive despite difficult circumstances. I am excited to contribute to a mission that empowers children with the tools, support, and hope needed to create brighter futures.