Community members honoured at inaugural EHRS Awards

On the evening of Tuesday 26 February 2019, Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue (EHRS) celebrated in style members of their community who make extraordinary contributions to society at the first ever EHRS Awards. Jonny Benjamin MBE was recognised for his outstanding work in raising awareness of mental health. Dr Jackie McRae received an accolade for the way she helps stroke victims to eat and talk again – which has also been recognised at national level with an NHS award. Also acknowledged was 15 year old Gideon Futerman for his amazing efforts in combatting global warming.

Other recipients included Shelly Dannell for turning young lives around, Ian Crooke for services to countless charities, Danielle Blumenblatt for saving lives through donating stem-cells and the synagogue’s two Senior Rabbis Danny Smith and Steven Katz for lifetime contributions to their community.

Keith Price, Joint President of EHRS said: “by honouring these members of EHRS, we can be so proud to know each and every one of them a little better and to understand how selfless they all are”.

Phil Dave, Broadcaster and EHRS Chair of Adult Education said: “I can’t recall the last time I felt so honoured and humbled to be asked to host a ceremony. Not only do I get to say I was there, I can call these amazing individuals my fellow congregants”

Alison Gunusen, daughter of one of the recipients added: “It was a wonderful and very moving evening and made me feel very proud to be part of our community.”