Fond Memories Shared By Hundreds Of Former JLGB Members At Spectacular Reunion
Hundreds of former JLGB members spanning 7 generations across the country arrived in London to attend a ‘Fond Memories’ reunion.
Just a few months ago, several JLGB alumni set up a ‘Fond Memories Facebook Group’, and within days over 1500 people had joined, sharing their photos, memories and memorabilia. Within days, plans for a reunion were put together by an enthusiastic committee, chaired by Michael Cohen, former JLGB stalwart. Alumni came from all across England, Scotland, Wales and even Israel to be at the event in person while others from as far afield as America and Australia joined in the evening via video call.
What was common amongst everyone at the event was how much JLGB had transformed their lives, including even those who have not been involved for 50 or 60 years who credited JLGB for the people that they are today. The same was true for all generations at the event: thousands of friendships have been made, marriages have been celebrated and of course now there are children and grandchildren who are proud members of today’s JLGB.
A past member of south London JLGB groups, Paul Souber travelled form Wales to attend the reunion. 'It was the best event I've been to for a long time," he said. "So pleased to see so many familiar faces." Philippa Hyams from Redbridge said it had been lovely to catch up woth old friends "especially Julie and Julian Levene, who I haven't seen since 1986." Now living in Bedfordshire, Fiona Factor's JLGB experience spans Ilford, Woodford and Manchester. She had one complaint about the event - it should have been longer. "There were loads of people I didn't even get to say hello to."
Michael Cohen, Chair of the Fond Memories committee said:
“There was an electric buzz of excitement from the moment the first people walked in, to the very end of the evening that I can only attribute to the unique feeling that JLGB engenders; passion, family, love and affection for each other. On the night and throughout my time with JLGB there was an indescribable feeling of togetherness, passion and care. I would like to thank the small organising committee who worked hard over such a short period of time to make such a fantastic evening.”
Neil Martin OBE, JLGB Chief Executive said:
“We would like to say thank you to all of the former members of JLGB whose support helps keep today's organisation thriving, without the funding, support and benefit in kind that so many of our former members give the JLGB we wouldn’t be able to offer the fantastic programmes that we do for today’s generation.
Today’s JLGB is thriving and we are extremely proud of our history and heritage. We continue to work hard and focus on making sure that JLGB is relevant for tomorrow’s children as well as remembering the huge contribution JLGB and its members have made to Anglo-Jewry over the last 120 years.”
If your youth was impacted by JLGB and it helped you to become who you are today, then there are 6 ways you can help today’s JLGB:
1. Connect with JLGB on social media…
Follow @JLGBHQ on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Snapchat!
2. Become a Fond Memories Supporter:
Give a monthly donation to fund our core weekly activities and help us shape the future of Jewish Youth.
Give a regular donation of £10, £25 or £50 a month.
Visit visit www.jlgb.org/supporter
3. Donate goods or services:
Can you donate prizes for camp?
Can your firm sponsor a JLGB event?
Do you run or work for a supplier of Kosher food, coaches, printing or dry cleaning? Or other services that JLGB use frequently.
There are so many ways in which you can help us… Email support@jlgb.org
4. Send your children (or grandchildren) to the JLGB…
Today’s JLGB is thriving using technology, fun and leadership skills to empower young people to become amazing adults, but do your own kids, family or friends attend JLGB?
Get them all to try JLGB… Email: getinvolved@jlgb.org
5. #DoYourBit (Again!) Become a Volunteer…
Your local JLGB group needs your help! We are looking for administrators and helpers across the country to help our young leaders organise brilliant activities.
Help shape the future of Jewish Youth… Email: doyourbit@jlgb.org
6. Join a JLGB Heritage Committee…
If you have loved taking a trip down memory lane, then how about helping to sort through the JLGB archives? We have 120 years’ worth of photos to name and date.
To be part of a Heritage Lottery Project… Email: support@jlgb.org
Photographer: https://alexsavillephotography.com
For all Press Enquiries, please contact Ellie Pendred on ellie.pendred@jlgb.org
