Get involved and help your community to thrive
AGM season is approaching – two ways to get involved and help your community to thrive
As we approach May, our Shuls will be holding their AGMs with elections for volunteers to join the Synagogue Council and become Honorary Officers on the Synagogue Executive.
Thinking about standing as an Honorary Officer?
Curious about getting more involved in your synagogue and what it means to be an Honorary Officer? Join us for a relaxed drink on Wednesday 22 April from 8pm North London. (Venue given on booking, may be online)
This is a great opportunity to meet Rachel Hartog, US Trustee, and Naomi Cohen, US Community Development Manager to hear first‑hand about the different Honorary Officer roles, and learn about the support and guidance available from US Head Office.
No pressure, no formality, just good conversation, a chance to ask questions and to see whether a leadership role might be right for you. Please email [email protected] to register your interest and get further details, or to find out more about any aspect of community leadership.
Make an impact on the Synagogue Council
If being an Honorary Officer isn’t for you, then read on to find out more about this dedicated group of volunteers at the heart of your community. The Synagogue Council helps to shape its direction and priorities, influencing everything from services and programming to long-term planning. Council members play a vital role in creating the spiritual and social experiences that bring our communities to life.
Josh Moont, Chair of Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue, said: “Serving on Council has always given members a real understanding of how our shul works and a genuine voice for the wider community. We’ve now introduced a new portfolio structure that empowers council members to deliver real impact, covering areas from fundraising and education to care, Israel and volunteers, working alongside our Honorary Officers, Rabbinic and care teams. Along the way, you build lasting relationships and real connections across the community. It’s a meaningful way to give back, grow as a leader, and share a commitment to the people around you.”
Naomi Cohen, US Community Development Manager says: “The Synagogue Council role is flexible, allowing you to get involved in the areas that matter most to you, alongside others who care deeply about Jewish life. At the same time, it offers a chance for personal growth. You can develop leadership skills, build confidence and gain experience in teamwork, governance and decision-making as well as making connections with others who share your commitment.
Our communities benefit from a wide range of skills, whether in communication, organisation, finance, creativity or simply kindness and dedication.”
“Consider which part of your community you are most passionate about and how your skills, experience and talents might help it to grow. Being part of the Synagogue Council is a fantastic way to give back and help your community thrive. If you are interested in being more involved in your community, speak to your community’s Chair or a member of the Synagogue Council or Executive, or you can email Naomi Cohen.