June 2010

Staff Show Great Dedication to the Board

37 years and still going strong…

Two of the Centre’s best loved teachers Hilda Mitchell & Val Bell have been honoured for their 37 years of service to Leeds Jewish Welfare Board. Both began their work for the Board in 1973 - Val as the art teacher and Hilda in a voluntary role as keep fit teacher, notching up nearly 75 years of service between them.

Both ladies were presented with a commemorative certificate by LJWB Chief Executive, Rebecca Weinberg and will attend a Volunteers Party on 22 April, to mark the national year of volunteers, where they will be thanked for all their hard work.

Hilda’s keep fit classes take place twice a week and often exceed 24 elderly and disabled service users. Hilda is much loved and respected for her passion and her drive by all who have ever joined in one of her sessions. “This is the best thing that has ever happened to me”, says Hilda. “Helping people keep fit and well is the most important part of my life”.

Over the years Hilda’s health has deteriorated. She has gradually lost her sight and is now registered blind. At 85 years old she also suffers with osteoarthritis and has difficulty moving but none of this has ever got in the way of her helping others to stay fit and mobile.

Hilda is one of over 300 precious volunteers which LJWB relies on to help deliver vital services to vulnerable people in the Community.

When Val started working for The Board in 1973 as the Art Tutor, resources were limited to two cupboards in the ‘coffee bar’ area of the old Queenshill Day Centre. As the building was extended the art class were given their own room and class sizes increased to approximately 20 people. The classes continued to flourish at the new MAZCC. “A constant trickle of new people keeps the class fresh”, said Val.

“Many people attend the art class once they are retired to enjoy the social aspect or just to try their hand at something new” said Val. “People will try anything with a bit of encouragement, everyone helps each other and we have fun”.

Val has also encouraged the art class to make and sell greeting cards which are sold at The Centre. Several hundred pounds have been raised by selling the cards as well as paintings produced by class members that are displayed in the hallway.

Val explains “I should have retired a while ago but just love it. I look forward to coming and helping people improve their art. Whilst I’m needed I’m happy. A lot of the class members have become really good friends”.

“Val and Hilda are both very much part of the fabric of Leeds Jewish Welfare Board and we hope they continue their fantastic work for many years to come”, said Chief Executive, Rebecca Weinberg.