www.reformjudaism.org.uk

Gill's Fund Launch

Thursday, 15 October 2009

Nearly 200 members of North West Surrey Synagogue in Weybridge gathered, on Sunday afternoon, October 4th, to launch Gill’s Fund, an initiative founded in honour of Gill Schuman, a much loved member of the congregation. Gill died of breast cancer, a year ago, at 47 years of age.
The fund was the brainchild of Penni Rochman, a member of the synagogue and close family friend of the Schuman’s.  Penni recalled Gill’s “gentle encouragement” of NWSS youth to take part in RSY-Netzer, the Zionist Youth Movement for Reform Judaism.  Penni decided to spearhead an initiative to provide a fund in Gill’s memory.  The aim of the charity is to promote involvement with RSY-Netzer and ensure that all interested youths from the community have the opportunity to partake in RSY activities, regardless of financial means.

A group of approximately 30 volunteers, under Penni's leadership, worked together to coordinate the successful event, which raised approximately £2,500 on the day. The afternoon included a presentation from representatives of RSY-Netzer by Ben Jardine, RSY-Netzer Shaliach and part-time NWSS youth leader, and Josh Martin, RSY-Netzer Mazkir. In addition, 3 youths from the community spoke about their experiences participating in Jewish summer camp. Among the speakers was Gill’s son, Laurence Schuman, who said, “My experience at RSY-Netzer has been incredible, especially this last summer when I did the Israel Tour.  It has had a huge impact on my life.  Not only do the camps create amazing friendships, but it really strengthens a connection to Judaism that, as a Jew in Surrey, I really didn’t have much of. RSY explains and promotes Judaism in a way that’s friendly to young people. Everyone deserves to have the same amazing experience.”  He added: “It is quite special that Mum is the reason that they have started this fund. It makes me quite proud”.

The afternoon’s festivities included homemade soup and cakes and culminated in a mass balloon release of more than 200 balloons.

Gill Schuman, née Davies grew up in Cheshire and was a member of Menorah Synagogue where she first became involved with the Reform Movement’s youth group.  She participated in the organisation's various activities, attended summer camp and progressed to became a “Rosh” (Head of Camp). In 1988 Gill married Martin Schuman and the newlyweds moved to Walton-on-Thames and joined NWSS. Gill was an active member of the community and held several roles including Secretary, Festivals Team and Youth Leader.

Gill and Martin have two sons, Jonny, 18 and Laurence, 16.  The boys have been active members of  NWSS and have participated in RSY-Netzer summer camps, Israel Tours and leadership training. Jonny has just entered Durham University where he is pursuing a degree in PPE and Laurence attends Reeds School in Cobham.

To learn more about the Gill’s Fund or make a donation, please email Penni Rochman at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Pictured above are (left to right) Laurence Schuman, Martin Schuman, Penni Rochman, and NWSS Chair, Paul Glicker.