The 90-year-old was a Marks and Spencer staff manageress for 10 years before working in the family business until retirement. She began volunteering in 1982, when she joined the JBCS, she has volunteered with All Board for 20 years, and at the former B’nai B’rith Stepney Settlement, which is now under the auspices of Jewish Care, since 1990. She has also helped Yaffa Amit, the director of senior care and activities at St John’s Wood Synagogue, for the past 10 years.
Why these organisations?
When I retired I joined B’nai B’rith’s First Women’s Lodge and was president from 1990 – 1996. The Stepney Settlement had been a project of the lodge for 50 years and I wanted to be involved so I volunteered for its Thursday Club and I still volunteer there. I chose to volunteer with All Aboard because it donates so generously to so many different charities.
What does your current volunteering role involve?
I help one day a week in one of the All Aboard shops, doing various jobs as required. In Stepney, I help with the running of the Thursday Club, and I now help in the shop that operates on the premises. At St John’s Wood, where I am a member, I contribute to the wellbeing of the many older members.
What do you most enjoy about being a volunteer?
I enjoy meeting many people and having a purpose to my day. I am thankful to be able to continue with this work. I find volunteering an uplifting experience which makes me feel fulfilled, working in a team and making good friends. Whatever small thing one can do is so much appreciated that it makes for many warm and wonderful memories.
