Jewish Care Celebrates Excellence at 2017 Staff & Volunteer Awards
Melbourne’s Jewish Care Victoria have presented their Staff and Volunteer Service & Excellence Awards.
Over 200 staff, volunteers, Life Governors, Board Members, communal leaders and supporters gathered at the International of Brighton to acknowledge the exceptional service, innovation and teamwork of staff and volunteers at Jewish Care.
Bill Appleby, Jewish Care CEO, congratulated all nominees for their hard work and dedication to building “an inclusive community where everyone, regardless of age, background or ability, can contribute and thrive.”
Inspirational guest speaker, Adam Kellerman, shared his personal journey of beating Ewing’s Sarcoma to become an Australian Paralympian and wheelchair tennis champion, and motivated all in attendance to strive to be the best versions of themselves.
The major award for the evening, the Samuel H. Harris Award for demonstrated pursuit of excellence was presented to Ora Glickman, Administration Officer- BlueStar, for her dedication to building robust in-home client services.
Volunteer of the Year was awarded to David Wilden. For many years, David has dedicated hours each Shabbat and Jewish holiday to escorting Elders at Gary Smorgon House to and from synagogue.
The Innovation of the Year Award was presented to Ayal Tusia, Marketing and Communications Manager, for his conceptualisation and direction of over 200 unique videos that educate the Victorian Jewish community about Jewish Care.
Also acknowledged were staff and volunteers who have given 5-40 years of service to Jewish Care. Valda Schnibbe and Rosalie Silverstein were particularly recognised for their 40 years of service.
Three professional development scholarships were awarded to Cassandra Barrett, Team Leader- Mental Health, Debbie Ellenbogen, Service Coordinator- Individual & Family Support, and Maria Sumovskaya, Program Manager- BlueStar In-Home Services.
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