Shomrei Torah is so fortunate to have many volunteers that give their time and energy to our congregation.  February’s Volunteer of the Month is Linda Gutman. Linda is a native New Yorker, having been raised in Brooklyn.  She made the move to New Jersey when she married her husband, Bernie.  They have been members of Shomrei Torah for more than ten years now.  They are the proud parents of a son, Andrew, who is a Shomrei Torah student and a Youth Group member (and also known to sometimes be a Youth Group “helper”).   Linda and Bernie work hard, but make time for special family activities together, most notably boating in the summer and skiing in the winter.

As a teenager, Linda was active in USY, attending chapter meetings and events, Encampment and Pilgrimage.  Her fond memories of the friendships and values she developed through USY ultimately convinced her to become involved with the Youth Group.  She wanted to be able to offer her son, as well as other children in our synagogue, the same types of friendships and experiences which she derived from USY.  Having a vibrant Youth Group as a “stepping stone” into Kadima and USY is what Linda envisions as critical to the success of youth engagement and enthusiasm. 

We are truly grateful to Linda for her devotion and dedication to our Shomrei Torah Youth groups. She has worked very hard, with her committee, to build a community where our children feel connected. We thank Linda for all she has given to Shomrei Torah!