Before retirement north Londoner Andy Epstein worked for Wizo, running its membership department. She set up a membership benefits scheme that encouraged 1,000 lapsed members to renew their support. Now she is serving the charity as a volunteer
Why Wizo?
The charity’s mission, to support vulnerable families in Israel, is very important to me as a committed Zionist.
What does your current volunteering role involve?
I am lay head of campaigns for Wizo.uk, the biggest part of which is chairing the Jewish Women’s Week campaign. The volunteers support the 85 captains who head the local teams.
What do you most enjoy about being a volunteer?
Working with a great team and knowing that my efforts can make a difference to families whose lives are deeply troubled. Last year JWW raised £254,000 which will help to ensure that the services we provide at 100 Wizo.uk projects in Israel can continue. That’s real job satisfaction — better than a salary!
What is your most memorable volunteering moment?
I was in tears at one of our shelters in Israel after hearing the story of an abused woman who had been cared for there. Her life had been so harrowing and yet she put out her arms to comfort me and thank me for all Wizo does.