On 5 June, and an (almost) rain free summer evening, 160 dedicated Fed volunteers with their invited ‘plus ones’ and other guests gathered at Heathlands Village for a Summer Fete to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of National Volunteers Week.
The event was primarily an opportunity to acknowledge and demonstrate The Fed’s gratitude for the outstanding contribution made by its volunteers to enhancing the lives of people living in the Greater Manchester Jewish Community, and the immense positive impact made nationwide by people who volunteer.
The evening began with a warm and welcoming speeches – by our Volunteer Services Manager, Dalia Kaufman, and our CEO, Mark Cunningham, who also took the opportunity to highlight the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Next Gen Project coordinator, Tammy Friedlander, explained her role in running ‘Alpha Feds’ – a programme which introduces for students in years 9 and 10 to the work of The Fed and volunteering opportunities. On the night, a group of ‘Alpha Fedders’ staffed mini market stalls and hosted a lively beat-the-goalie competition, raising over £250.
As the wine flowed, volunteers of all ages mingled and danced to timeless favourites, the musical entertainment very kindly provided by a talented trio of friends – Ben Sallon, Jean-Phillipe Glaskie and Chazan Michael Isdale.
Guests captured special moments together in an ‘Alpha Feds’ selfie frame, and with a nod to Yom Yerushalayim, enjoyed a delicious Israeli-style light supper.
Alex Chaytow donated beautiful balloon displays to enhance the festivities.
