They are unpaid but priceless
FROM KEY fundraisers to meals-onwheels providers, the breadth of Jewish Care’s volunteer army was showcased at its awards night, held at the charity’s Friern Barnet campus.
The age spectrum was also covered with long-time volunteers recognised alongside teenage helpers.
For example, the young volunteer award winner was Joseph Malinsky, 16, who for the past two years has been assisting at Lady Sarah Cohen House on the Friern Barnet site. He is there every Shabbat to help with the morning services and kiddush.
“I started volunteering as part of my Duke of Edinburgh Award but enjoyed it so much that I continued after the six-month programme came to an end,” he explained. “I like helping the residents and being able to give something back.”
Another award went to the Jewish studies team and year eight teachers at JCoSS for their intergenerational programme with Jewish Care’s Connect@ centre in Southgate for independent older people.
The teachers have supported 90 children volunteering there during school hours as a means to build pupil confidence and a sense of social responsibility during their bar/batmitzvah year.
AwardwinnersHermiGoodmanand Sheila Lee regularly visit the Leonard Sainer Centre in Edgware for people living with dementia to run music, dance and reminiscence activities.
Mrs Goodman began volunteering “once my children flew the nest because I wanted to do something meaningful to enhance my life. Jewish Care is like a big family and it is wonderful to be a part of that.
“Receiving the award with my friend Sheila makes it more special — we’ve volunteered together for more than 20 years. It’s a privilege to have such amazing clients and hear their incredible stories from the past.”
Isla Horesh, 23, received an innovation award for teaching IT skills to young residents of Jack Gardner House, Golders Green, helping those with mental health needs.
“I enjoy volunteering and befriending at the home as it’s a great way to give something back,” she said. “It’s been good to get to know the resi- dents and support them to use iPads to download apps relating to their interests, as well as enriching their everyday lives by connecting on FaceTime with family and friends across the world.”
The 70-strong meals-on-wheels team from Redbridge Jewish Community Centre was recognised in the “outstanding relationship” category.
Among the group collecting the award was Sid Green, who began helping out 10 years ago when ill health forced him to give up work. “I like making people feel good,” he said. “I have made friendships with those I deliver meals to and I call them up from time to time to see how they are.”
Southend and Westcliff Commu- nity Centre’s Cobham Singers Choir was honoured for innovation and creativity. The choir’s Jackie Davis said it “connects everyone involved and is something positive that makes members feel valued and gives them a sense of belonging”.
“Outstanding fundraisers” Patsy Bloom and Susie James have generated £1.5 million to date from an annual bridge extravaganza, Joseph Malinsky which is approaching its 20th year. They were among eight volunteer patrons, acknowledged for exceptional contributions. Another is Elizabeth Israel, who for many years has organised outings for the charity’s clients. Simon Morris, Jewish Care’s chief executive, said that without its 3,000 volunteers, “we could not provide the services we do. “We are working hard to ensure we can provide all of our volunteers with meaningful roles that match their interests, skills and requirements so that volunteers have a real purpose and sense of worth within the organisation.”