Laurence Thorne

My volunteering reached a peak in 2006 when Mandy and I were asked to head the Great Britain delegation to the JCC-Maccabi North American Games in Phoenix, Arizona, and we returned with some medals. We also got our first taste of an international event. Then, last year, we again headed the GB delegation — this time to Orange County, Los Angeles — again, returning with medals galore. We were absolutely delighted to have been chosen for a third time to take a squad of 64 to Detroit this year.

What do you  enjoy most about being a volunteer?
Working with Maccabi GB has enabled me to form many close friendships, both  throughout the UK and with Jewish communities around the world. Knowing that I am providing a safe environment for children, and to see children progress to the stage where they want to assist others — that is what it’s all about.

What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
Heading the Great Britain delegation and leading Team GB out at the opening ceremonies in Phoenix and Los Angeles has to be up there among the best moments. To do this voluntarily is more than a pleasure, and in November 2005 I received the Pierre Gildesgame Award in recognition of my contribution to Maccabi GB and MSPFL.