JVN Blog

Well after 22 years as wife of the Chief Rabbi, we are at the next stage of our lives, gazing out of a New York apartment at the thick snow and bright sunshine. The sun does shine here most of the time, but it certainly gets cold! Over the years I had the real privilege of meeting many volunteers in all sorts of organisations, and of all ages. The boundless dedication and enthusiasm never failed to move me.

I grew up in a community of volunteering. My mother worked hard for Youth Aliyah. My late father was a gabbai at the shul. People helped people.  Many times when I ask volunteers, how did you get into all this, the reply was: I saw it from my parents, that is how I was brought up.

When I was at school I remember we were asked to volunteer to visit old people in the area. And so many of us did.  And when I was a young mother at home with the little ones, I went to the home of a young woman learning English and helped her with the language.

There are all sorts of ways to volunteer. Visiting at a hospital, helping a neighbour, helping at meal times in a care home. The list is endless. In addition, of course, there are the wonderful fundraising projects such as treks and cycle rides.  There is something for every age to be involved in. 

The wonderful thing about JVN is that it brings all these projects and people together. Publicity shows volunteering to be something we all want to be involved in, showing imagination and energy for young and not so young.

So let’s all inspire each other. And thank you JVN for helping us, and for showing thanks and appreciation. Elaine Sacks.

Lady Elaine Sacks is the wife of Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth from 1991-2013. She is a member of the JVN Advisory Board and a regular visitor to our offices. Lady Sacks has an impressive history of involvement in many charitable activities and organisations across the community.

If you have been inspired by her words register on the JVN website and have a look at our network of charities for ideas. For more information follow us on Facebook or Twitter or give us a call on 020 8203 6427.