Spring 2024 Newsletter
From the Desk of Roxanne Droppo
Executive Director
As we embark on another chapter of our journey together, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication for our organization.
In the heart of every act of kindness lies the potential for transformation, and it is through the generosity of our community that we continue to weave a tapestry of hope and resilience.
Over the past few months, our efforts have resonated deeply within the lives of those we serve. From providing essential basic needs to advocating for the marginalized and navigating mental health challenges, each action has served as a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty. However, our journey extends beyond mere assistance; it is a testament to the power of unity and compassion.
As we reflect on the strides we have made, we are also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. October 7th reminded us there is still much work to be done. The road to meaningful change is often fraught with obstacles, but it is through perseverance and resilience that we overcome them. Together, we will continue to confront injustice, alleviate suffering, and build a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. We are not only changing lives but also shaping a future filled with hope and promise.
JFSC is committed to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Last year we provided services to over 3000 individuals. One client said it best “I live on a fixed income and without JFSC I would be hungry, lonely and likely living in squalor. I did not have a lot of reason to get out of bed in the morning, but they gave me purpose. I am so thankful for them. They have no idea how important they are for me.”
Our story is because of your story. Together we make a difference as we strive to leave this world better than we found it.
Creating Meaningful Connections
By Corson Turner
Memories are the fundamental building blocks that shape an individual’s uniqueness. However, when memories fade, the experience can be challenging, causing grief for the individual and their loved ones. Recognizing the difficulties faced by those dealing with various forms of dementia, Jewish Family Service Calgary (JFSC) has started a program called Memory Care. This program focuses on engaging people experiencing dementia in “brain-boosting activities.”
At JFSC Memory Care, individuals experiencing dementia have the opportunity to connect with volunteers, starting their journey far beyond just rebuilding cognitive abilities. Genuine bonds and connections are built between volunteers and the program participants. Read full article.
My Experience Working with JFSC
When I first got to meet with the people at JFSC, I was blown away by their kindness and their eagerness to get started on this project. Their willingness to help me work on this project is truly something I thank them for. From the second I walked into their facility it was obvious that I was surrounded by a group of caring and selfless individuals.
Furthermore, I was deeply impressed by the effectiveness of this program. Recently, my grandmother was diagnosed with dementia, which made me appreciate even more the passion and dedication shown by those who work with this population. Learning about this program made me realize just how amazing it truly is, and how important it is we have programs like these. Programs that go above and beyond in just ensuring people in marginalized communities still have people there for them. And of course I have to mention that I am so thankful for being able to listen to the volunteers’ stories, they were incredibly eye opening and heartwarming.
I am very grateful I had the opportunity to work with this organization and realize they truly are more than just a few exercises that help rebuild memory. JFSC Memory Care is a family, and one that truly cares about everyone involved. Thank You very much for the opportunity JFSC.
MRU Broadcasting student, Corson Turner, developed videos and a blog about JFSC’s Memory Care Program, showcasing an organization that is making a positive impact in the community. Corson worked with our Memory Care and Caregiver Support Program’s Samantha Porter, and Memory Care volunteers Natalie and Afope, to create a story and videos, highlighting the Program and its impact. We thank Corson for his initiative and passion!
A Special Thank You to our Volunteers
Volunteers are the heart of JFSC. Our dedicated 111 active volunteers visit isolated seniors, work with memory care clients, deliver holiday baskets and help with our golf tournament. They help us provide ESL classes, organize The Wynne Thal Food Pantry and deliver Seniors Secret Service packages.
We thank you, our volunteers, for your time, your energy and your commitment to helping us make our communities a better place to live.
Are you interested in getting involved? Contact Sarah at Sarahm@jfsc.org, or call 403-287-3510 to find out more about how you can add a meaningful experience into your world. Current Volunteer Opportunities.
Volunteer Profile: Betty Sherwood
Betty believes that children are highly influenced by the actions of their parents and knows that the reason she has chosen to carve out time to help others is because she watched both her parents do the same. When she was in university, Betty wrote a paper using the thesis: People who volunteer: Is it because their parents volunteered?
With her mother in The Beverley, Betty volunteered for the Shabbat Services there. During the pandemic she was asked if she would like to continue to help out, and that’s how she became a Friendly Visitor. She is now volunteering in JFSC’s ESL program, using her skills as a teacher to help people with their English.
We met with Betty to ask her a few questions:
How has volunteering impacted your own personal/professional development?
I have always volunteered with children, and that probably led me to becoming a teacher.
What has surprised you about volunteering?
The number of things you can volunteer for – there are so many needs for many different things.
What is the best thing about volunteering with JFSC clients?
Clients are so appreciative; you can see how you are making a difference in their lives.
What volunteer contribution or achievement are you most proud of?
I’m proud of everything but helping with the Shabbat Program is particularly meaningful as I am carrying on Jewish traditions.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering in the community?
Do it now. There are lots of things to do, depending on your skills and time. More often, volunteers get more out of it than the clients do.
What do you hope JFSC will achieve in the near future? In the long term?
I would like the organization to be involved with the whole community, sharing resources, and showing who we are. Show them that Jewish people are just like everyone else.
Anything else you like to add?
JFSC is so flexible and able to meet the volunteers’ needs. JFSC accommodates seniors and students and are happy to work within their schedules.
9th Annual Martin, Staniloff & Thal Charity Golf Classic
Save the Date!
Thursday August 15, 2024
Cottonwood Golf & Country Club
Same great event, new location! In “Driving for Change for a Better World”, we invite you to join us for another fun-filled golf tournament that includes lunch, dinner, great prizes, and bragging rights. And did we mention pink boas and bubbles? Shhh – what goes on at the golf course, stays at the golf course..
Details to come, registration will be open in early June. For more information and for sponsorship and donation opportunities, contact Lynn at lynnt@jfsc.org, or call 403-692-6395.
A special thank you to our ongoing tournament sponsors: Larry Martin, Marc Staniloff and Harvey Thal, we are grateful for your continued support!
We thank all of our previous supporters and hope you will join us again this year.
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Make Your Donation Go Further!
We are thrilled to be a participating charity in the 2024 Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink.
Donate to JFSC before August 31, 2024, and Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink will match it by up to 50%, funds go towards our child and youth programming.
Spring/Summer 2024 Monthly drop-in Caregiver Discussions Group
Free sessions at 3 Calgary community locations.
Note – new Oak Park Church location
Facilitated by a registered social worker from JFSC’s Caregiver Support Program, this is a space for caregivers of seniors and/or persons living with dementia to exchange caregiving and coping strategies and resources.
More information, dates and locations.
There is no charge for these groups. Pre-Registration is required, we cannot talk walk-ins – please call 403-287-3510
Looking into the Future: 2024-2027 JFSC Strategic Plan
What will the next few years look like in Calgary and how can we be prepared to meet the current and projected needs in our community? Planning for the future is critical to ensure that we evolve our programs and supports to offer the right services at the right time for our communities.
Over the past few months, the JFSC Board of Directors and staff members participated in a series of sessions to review our Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles, look at anticipated political, economic and social trends in Calgary, and analyze how the agency is positioned to meet emerging needs.
We anticipate that over the next three years, JFSC will see an increase in both the demand for programs and services, and in the complexity of client needs. This surge in demand has already started and is a result of high costs of living, increased household debt, heightened mental health issues and growing needs within our aging population. A projected recession will exacerbate the issues we are seeing today.
We are very fortunate to have a strong reputation and solid relationships, loyal donors and strong community ties. With our skilled leadership, experienced staff, and diverse Board, we have many strengths, and we are well positioned to explore future opportunities and meet emerging needs as they arise. Our priorities moving forward:
- Program and Service Excellence
- Organizational Sustainability
- Stakeholder/Community Engagement
- Strategic Collaboration
Dueling Piano Kings: Thank You for your Support
A great time was had by all!
We would like to thank all of our supporters who contributed to our 2024 Annual Fundraiser, “Dueling Piano Kings”.
Your support helps us create a better quality of life for our clients by inspiring hope, creating a sense of belonging, and connecting people to their communities.
Community Spotlight
As part of our commitment to being a community resource, this new newsletter section will highlight new initiatives, programs and helpful information that may be of interest to you. Let us know if there are things you would like to see in this section by emailing Lisa at lisat@jfsc.org.
New personal registry service discounts for Alberta Seniors
Effective April 1, 2024, seniors aged 65 residing in Alberta are eligible to receive a 25% discount on personal registry services. Services currently eligible for the seniors’ discount include driver’s licence renewals, passenger vehicle registrations, driver’s abstracts, marriage licences and birth certificates. Discounts for additional services will be available later this year. For more information on what services are currently eligible and whether they are available in person or online, go to www.alberta.ca/seniors-discount.
New Canadian Dental Care Plan for seniors and low-income families with children
The Government of Canada recently announced the rollout of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to ease financial barriers for accessing oral health care for uninsured seniors and low-income families with children who are Canadian residents. The phased in approach starts with seniors, individuals in these age groups should have received letters inviting them to apply with instructions on eligibility.
Eligible families with children under the age of 18 years will be able to apply for the new benefit as of June 2024, those families already receiving benefits will continue to receive benefits until June 30, 2024 and will then need to re-apply.
To find out if you are eligible, and for more information on this program:
Donate your gently used winter clothing - Project Warmth Society of Alberta
Are you knee deep in gently used winter clothing after your Passover and spring-cleaning spree? Those piles of coats, hats, gloves and other winter accessories are critical pieces for low income Calgarians.
The Project Warmth Society of Alberta has been providing our clients with essential winter clothing and accessories to stay warm during the cold months. They collect a variety of items, including warm coats, jackets, snow pants, hats, gloves, scarves, socks, shoes, backpacks, water bottles, and blankets. Drop off your donations at any local Fire Station in the City of Calgary.
Project Warmth operates year-round, so your support is welcome at any time. Your generosity will benefit individuals and families in our community who rely on these items to stay warm and healthy. For more information: www.projectwarmth.ca.