Local Heroes Needed: Can we Count On You?

Local Heroes Needed: Can we Count On You?

Neil Martin OBE

JLGB Chief Executive

Today’s children and young people are growing up in an extraordinary time of upheaval and in an increasingly divided world, still grappling with the impact of a global pandemic and now in the midst of a cost of living crisis.

Over the course of the pandemic and national lockdown JLGB, through nightly virtual programmes, captured the mood and imagination for children, young people and families stuck at home. They were a shining beacon in a dark time, as JLGB always have been for our community in times of crisis, stepping up to support children, young people and families for now over 127 years – thanks to the help of Adult Volunteers.

As local JLGB groups get ready to start back in September, more adult and student volunteers are needed urgently to support the increased number of young Jewish people and children who are taking part in JLGB activities post-pandemic. JLGB is counting on the heroic efforts of parents, grandparents, young adults and students in the community to allow the waiting lists of young people wanting to join existing groups to be opened, and to expand into new communities to meet demand from parents who want JLGB activities in their local area for their children.

Recognising the dedication and investment of time and energy by the hundreds who already volunteer, JLGB have launched a new campaign, called: COUNT ME IN! - which showcases our brilliant adult volunteers as everyday heroes who can make an extraordinary impact on a young person’s life. Underscoring the urgent need, the campaign focusses on the children and young people who are counting on adult leaders to make local activity groups possible in their communities.

Adults interested in volunteering will benefit from a new centralised digital programme hub for weekly activities known as JLGB FUEL, which has streamlined planning for local groups and youth leaders. However, volunteering as an adult leader for JLGB gives you back more than you’d expect. We’ll train you to use your own talents and skills, giving you some real responsibility. You’ll gain qualifications and transferable skills that you can use to further your own career: skills like management training, team motivation and communication techniques.

You’ll build a network of friends across all ages and professions, as well as having your own mentors and coaches to help you fulfil your own potential. You’ll receive rewards, awards and recognition, because we like to thank our volunteers for the commitment they make to us. You’ll have fun attending social events with people like yourself, giving you a real sense of belonging while you’re making new friends for life.

But, most of all, you will gain the knowledge that you’ve made a positive difference to young lives while shaping the future of our society, gaining the appreciation, gratitude and respect of the young people you’re helping – and the privilege of watching them grow into young adults.

JLGB has local groups up and down the UK and is looking for volunteers for both existing and new groups. If you would be interested in starting a group in your area, JLGB wants to collaborate with you.

There are many ways to help and many different roles, from Group Leader, Youth Worker, Programme Manager, One-to-One Support, to more behind the scenes roles helping with logistics, resources and admin, and even van drivers… your offer of help at this time really will make the difference. Full training is provided and enhanced DBS checks are required for all roles.

Just two hours a week can help us uplift the next generation. Can we COUNT YOU IN?

About JLGB

The JLGB strives to help develop a society that values Jewish young people and their contributions to their local and wider communities. JLGB aims to make every effort to train, develop and support Jewish young people through their transition from young person to adult to become active citizens in society. JLGB offers essential life skills and experiences to help young Jewish people transition from empowered youth to engaged young adult. JLGB believe in young people not only as leaders of tomorrow, but as a powerful force for positive change in society today. By removing faith barriers to participation in a fun, flexible yet safe, structured environment, JLGB ensures and enables each Jewish person to reach their future potential. 

Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering, please register your interest at www.jlgb.org/heroes.