We take a look at the latest events and news from LJWB.
The annual Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB) Chanukah party brought the community together on the second night of Chanukah for a warm and uplifting celebration. Kindly sponsored by the Business Catalyst Club, the event welcomed over 100 guests for an afternoon of dancing, candle-lighting, food, and togetherness.
Lord Mayor Councillor Dan Cohen and Lady Mayoress Elayna joined the celebrations, spending time with guests throughout the party. Candle lighting was led by Rabbi Sufrin, with a moving Yahrzeit candle lit in memory of the tragic events on Bondi Beach.
Guests enjoyed delicious homemade latkes and doughnuts from Leeds Kosher Kitchen, alongside live entertainment from singer Howard Brent and accordionist Carl Evans.
The board would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Leeds Freemasons of Castle Grove Masonic Lodges and Chapters for their incredible generosity. They donated a wonderful selection of toys and gifts to charities across the city, helping to bring joy to so many children and families over the festive period.
LJWB is honoured to be cheering on another four fantastic runners who are training hard for the 26.2-mile London Marathon on 26th April. Leading the team this year is Philip Rakusen, who is quite literally following in his dad Lloyd’s footsteps! Philip will be heading up the group and offering plenty of encouragement and support as they take on months of intense training.
You can help to motivate this amazing team by sponsoring an individual runner or supporting the team as a whole – every contribution truly makes a huge difference. Shelley Frieze, LJWB’s Donor Engagement and Fundraising Manager commented: “This year brings an extra challenge: our London Marathon allocation has been reduced from five places to four due to increased demand from charities. With one fewer runner, our team is taking on an even bigger challenge while still aiming high. Despite this, we’re determined to reach our £25,000 fundraising target. Every penny makes a difference, and we’re incredibly grateful for your support in helping our runners go the distance.”
Finally, there’s a brand-new series of talks with a Jewish twist – with a Q&A session at the end – taking place at the MAZCC. Curious Minds starts 9th February then monthly on 23rd March and 27th April from 11am to 12.15pm. The first session will be led by Nigel Grizzard on the history of the Kindertransport hostels in Bradford, Ilkley, Harrogate, and Leeds, exploring their connections to the local area and the personal stories behind them.
