ByRobyn Rosen, Robyn Rosen
The Jewish Committee for the London Games wants to be the first recipient of an Inspire mark, making it an official London 2012 brand.
Guests at the committee’s first seminar on Tuesday were told that it had applied to the programme as a project inspired by the Games.
The committee was founded by the London Jewish Forum, Maccabi GB, UJIA and Lord Janner to promote communal involvement in London 2012 activities.
Among the 50-plus people at the seminar were Ephraim Zinger, director of the Israeli Olympic Committee, and representatives of volunteering charities.
London Jewish Forum chief executive Alex Goldberg said the Inspire mark would add “kudos” when attempting to attract funding for projects.
UJIA chief executive Douglas Krikler discussed educational ideas and there were suggestions for programmes in Jewish schools, a Limmud-style conference where visitors could learn more about Jewish culture and tours of Jewish London.
BBYO director Phil Peters said British pupils visiting Israel would have the opportunity to meet some of the nation’s Olympic hopefuls.
“Young people are very passionate Zionists in this country,” he said.
“We have a great opportunity to engage young people who don’t find such a connection in some of the other more educational things we do.
“Over the build up to the Games, we want to engage with the athletes in Israel and are looking at ways the groups of tours going to Israel can meet the athletes, as well as when they come here.”