JVN Blog

I am an avid reader, perusing a wide variety of novels, often recommendations by Richard & Judy! However, I do also regularly read more serious books, books that can make me think!

At this time of the Jewish Year – a time of reflection – I was fortunate to have been introduced to a book that is not only making me think but is challenging the way those engaged in the community are thinking. I predict that it will have significant global impact on the Jewish Community.

The book is called Relational Judaism, written by Dr Ron Woolfson  (available at www.jewishlights.com). In summary Woolfson posits that the American Jewish Community has for too long spent too much time on programmes, activities and buildings, at the cost of too little time spent on relationships. One consequence is a drift away from Jewish values, identity and practice. He suggests that what really transforms us, is how we “care about the people we seek to engage.” The aim of the book is to “strengthen Jewish consciousness and commitment by encouraging individuals to build relationships with self, family, friends, Jewish living, community, people-hood Israel, the world & G-d.”

This notion resonates with me as the Director of JVN, as our essence is relational – developing the relationship between the volunteer and the recipient. The principles that drive JVN are those that suggest that volunteering is the bridge that builds relationships and is the glue of the community.

Our recent Wohl JVN Volunteering Awards evening highlighted this, showing how our inspirational nominees selflessly volunteered and through their experiences created meaningful relationships with many people across the community, thereby they helping to sustain the Jewish charity sector.

In the words of the youngest winner, Leora Robinson: “People don’t recognise how good it can make you feel. No one told me to volunteer, but when you work with people, you see the enjoyment they get, it puts a smile on their face. I appreciate every moment.”

In the coming year, consider helping build stronger bonds and relationships through volunteering… this has to be the key strategy for community engagement and sustainability.