The Jewish Volunteering Network’s Annual Awards took place on Sunday. The United Synagogue is powered by nearly 2,000 volunteers across the charity and we are over the moon our volunteers have been recognised at the equivalent of the Oscars for Jewish volunteering.
We are thrilled to say that the House of Life Volunteers at Willesden Jewish Cemetery won the overall award for Volunteer Team of the Year for their extraordinary efforts telling the story of our 150-year-old cemetery and the remarkable individuals buried there. Click here to see why we nominated them.
We also had winners across all four awards and we wish everyone mazal tov!
- Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award
David Levy, Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue – the community described him as “a calming figure, who enables us to run our remarkable Mitzvah Day Gardening project as well creating our beautiful shul eco-garden”.
Huw David, Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue – the United Synagogue said that “Huw took a bold decision to merge Ruislip with Northwood to create Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue and is now the vice chair of the newly-formed community”.
- Volunteer Team of the Year Award
Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue’s Mitzvah Day team – the community said that “each year our Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue Mitzvah Day team grow from strength to strength”.
Jewish Visiting’s Hospital Chaplaincy – US Chesed who nominated them said that “Jewish Visiting Chaplains quietly and humbly work for the benefit of the whole community, to ensure religious, pastoral and spiritual needs are met during difficult times of life.”
- Young Adult Volunteer of the Year
Tribe’s Harrison Cohen – Tribe said that “Harrison is a dedicated madrich (leader) who has inspired the community with his care and commitment to Tribe”.
- Lifetime Achievement Award
Northwood and Ruislip United Synagogue’s Brian Geminder – the community said that “Brian exemplifies building relationships and giving, making a remarkable impact on both his community and beyond”.
Pinner United Synagogue’s David Summers – Pinner said that “David has served Pinner Synagogue and the community for over 40 years, maintain the building, ensuring safety and advocating for Israel and Jewish interests”.
United Synagogue’s Gill Cashdan – US Chesed said that “Gill provides therapeutic care to prisoners and families through prison chaplaincy, supporting reintegration and healthy relationships.”
- To get involved with volunteering in your community or with the United Synagogue centrally, please be in touch on [email protected]
23/1/2025