JFSA

JFSA is gearing up to celebrate the beginning of Pesach with a Family Speed Seder on April 18, 2011

2011-04-12T10:21:00.000-07:00

Jewish Family Service Agency in collaboration with the Community Kollel presents a special Family Passover Seder. Come and experience an inspirational and Traditional Passover celebration that has been tailored toward families. This condensed program will begin at 7:30 and will include kid-friendly food and a children’s Seder program and activities.

Families can look forward to an evening of stories, songs and gourmet food prepared by the Maple Grill.

This evening will be lead by Rabbi Yossi Goldberg, the Youth Director at Community Kollel and is by registration only.

The suggested donation is $25/child and 36$/adult but subsidies are available.

To register of for more information please call Lisa Ross at 604.637.3307 or lross@jfsa.ca

In Honour of Pink Shirt Day

2011-02-24T14:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Pink Shirt Day in the Lower Mainland. David Shepherd, and Travis Price, first organized Pink Shirt Day in response to new Grade 9 student at their school who was being bullied. They distributed pink shirts to all the boys in their school to send a message that bullying would not be tolerated.

Choosing to wear pink on February 23rd symbolizes that we as a society will not tolerate bullying.

Bullying is often thought of as something that occurs in adolescence but work place bullying is thought to have affected half of all workers at some point of their career. Workplace bullying is described as “the tendency of individuals or groups to use persistent aggressive or unreasonable behaviour against a co-worker or subordinate.”

On January 9th JFSA’s Director of Counseling Alan Stamp posted an article on the West Coast Wellness Blog titled Bullying: A FIRST-CLASS PROBLEM IN SCHOOLS.

“For families, dealing with a bullied child or dealing with a bully or his or her parent’s may require professional guidance and advice. Don’t hesitate in such cases to consult with WCWG or another clinical counselling service provider for information and support.” Alan Stamp

His article generated some really positive feedback and so in honor of Pink Shirt Day we would like to re-post his piece.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bullying: A FIRST-CLASS PROBLEM IN SCHOOLS

Recently, I provided a talk/discussion group for parents – here are some of the points covered in hopes that it might bring further attention to a large concern.

Barbara Coloroso, a leading expert in parenting, describes bullying as “a conscious, deliberate and wilful hostile activity intended to harm.” She states that bullying is not about anger or conflict – it is about contempt for another human being. It involves a sense of power and entitlement that allows the bully to control, dominate and abuse his or her victim.

* It is someone who takes advantage of another individual that he or she perceives as more vulnerable
* The goal is to gain control over the victim or over the bully’s social group
* Most adults, if they think about it, have experienced bullying too

In October of 2010, a global report on school violence identifies bullying as the largest problem at US school playgrounds.

How it impacts:

* All forms of youth violence – both in and out of schools cost the nation $158 billion in the US
* The “safe” school playground becomes an ugly arena where children/youth pit themselves against each other
* Up to 65% of children worldwide state that they suffer or have suffered from bullying.
* Bullying is under-reported – the actual % may be much higher
* 1/5 of high school students said they experienced repeated, intentional bullying according to the CDC
* Bullying behaviour is higher in girls than boys
* Being bullied may account for poor attendance at school
* Impacts on learning or having the ability to learn
* Can take place on the Internet – cyber-bullying, which can be relentless
* Can increase suicidal thought and actions, as happened this last year in the US when several adolescents committed suicide after being bullied for being gay
* Research indicates a close relationship between school bullying and youth violence
* Youth violence-related death is the 2nd cause highest cause of death in the US – Canada is not far behind that statistic
* Bullying can have serious and harmful psychological effects (words can never harm you – erroneous)
* There is a “generational” aspect to bullying – if one is bullied, there is a stronger chance for one to bully another
* In Canada, bullying happens every 7 minutes on the playground and every 25 minutes in the classroom
* Adults may dismiss children bullying others as “kids just being kids”
* The escalation from bullying behaviour to violence can be swift
* High-tech bullying occurs on social networks such as Facebook
* Bullying also happens through email, texts – all add new fire to the arsenal of the bully, who can use such sites as threaten his/her victim
* Microsoft Canada (it tracks Internet safety) stated that in 2009, 40% of Canadian youth said that they have been bullied online – up 25% since 2004
* Name-calling, putdowns and violence are considered valid entertainment (a Facebook site encouraged kids to beat up anyone with red hair on “Kick a Ginger Day”, started in response to an episode of “South Park”
* Violence is all forms continues to be glorified through film, video games and extreme sporting events
* The WHO ranks Canada 26th out of 35 developed nations for bullying behaviour (that’s worse than the US and 24 of the nations surveyed)
* WHO calls bullying a global social health problem
* The UK and Norway have instituted successful national campaigns to address bully problems
* Canada dos not have a national anti-bullying programme
* Canadian anti-bullying programmes exist in the private sector

Dealing with a Bully

It is critical to help your child regain a sense of worth and esteem after being bullied.

* Do not tell the child to act on the anger. Being angry with the bully further incites the situation, which is most likely what the bully wants
* Avoid the use of physical force. It is uncertain what the bully can do in response – he/she may be physically harmful
* Tell the bully to “stop NOW”. Then tell the child to walk away and ignore him/her
* Inform an adult immediately. Encourage the child to promptly tell an adult, teacher, school counsellor or parent about the bullying behaviour
* Use the buddy system. Have your child walk to school or take the bus with friends/others. Tell your child to be with friends in halls and on the playground. If the bully is in sight, it is less likely that he/she will strike with others around, and if he/she does, there is the potential support of friends to deal with this situation

How can you help your child deal with the bullying?

First, help teach him/her to avoid being an easy target. Start with posture, voice and eye contact. These can communicate a lot about whether you are vulnerable. Practice with a mirror or even videotape. Tell your child to avoid isolated places where no one can see or hear him. He/she should learn to be vigilant for suspicious individuals or for trouble brewing. If bullying starts, the child might be able to deflect it with humour or by changing the subject. The child should run over a list of positive attributes in his mind. This reminds the child that he/she is worthy of something better than bullying behaviour. Teach your child not to obey the commands of the bully. Often it is better to run away than to comply. The parent may help the child make more positive friends. If he or she sticks around with a group, he/she is less likely to be a target. Finally, if the child sticks up for other children he sees being bullied, people may get the idea that he is not someone who tolerates bullies.

For families, dealing with a bullied child or dealing with a bully or his or her parent’s may require professional guidance and advice. Don’t hesitate in such cases to consult with WCWG or another clinical counselling service provider for information and support.

Alan Stamp

This entry was posted on Sunday, January 9th, 2011 at 6:27 pm and is filed under Counselor Corner. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

What did you do for UN International Day of Peace ?

2010-09-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

UN International Day of Peace/ World Peace Day

September 21, 2010 marked the UN International Day of Peace. No matter where you were, at 12 noon you could have joined in on a Moment of Peace.

The UN International Day of Peace began in 1982 and has since been dedicated to the “to peace, or specifically the absence of war, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone. It is observed by many nations, political groups, military groups, and people.” (Wikipedia).

This year’s Day featured all kinds of events. A news release from the UN News Centre states, “From cultural displays and a parade of peacekeepers to a children’s immunization campaign and the handing over of responsibilities to local police, United Nations field offices and missions around the world marked International Day of Peace today with a series of events in honour of its key themes.”

2010 has also been dedicated to the young people since it is the International Year of Youth. The message to youth from the Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is to encourage youth to work toward and promote international peace.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated in his official message, “And I say to all young people, join us. Help us to work for peace. You are impatient. You see what we, your elders, allow to persist, year after year: poverty and hunger; injustice and impunity; environmental degradation.”

How did you mark the UN International Day of Peace? JFSA wants to hear from you.

A Look At BC's Social Housing Units: By Laura Stannard

2010-09-17T08:57:00.000-07:00

A headline you won’t read from BC Housing: “BC Built Only 280 Additional Social Housing Units in Last Five Years”. Seth Klein and Lorraine Copas have published a report with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) that analyzed BC Housing press releases and compared the published numbers with the number of units built. CCPA BC Office’s latest release, “Unpacking the Housing Numbers: How much new social housing is BC building?” highlights how the BC Government’s own data reveals an overall net increase of only 280 social housing units over the past 5 years. You can support more research like this by becoming a member or donating to CCPA. Tax receipts available for contributions over $35.

The Federal Government hampers BC's ability to build new social housing units by not funding permanent housing construction programs as it did before 1993. The first step to get the Federal Government back on board is through the development of a National Housing Strategy. New Democrat MP Libby Davies is leading the fight in Ottawa with Bill C-304. This bill creates a National Housing Strategy and is scheduled for the 3rd and final reading on October 20, 2010. The federal Liberals, BC Union of Municipalities and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities are strong supporters of this bill, so the pressure needs to be applied to BC federal Conservative MPs and the Bloc Québécois.

Find out more about the work being done to support Bill C-304 at Pivot Legal Society’s Red Tent Campaign and ACORN Canada.

For updates on social housing construction and affordable housing campaigns, join Citywide Housing Coalition at www.citywidehousingcoalition.org.

L'Shanah Tovah!

2010-09-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

Have a sweet and happy new year!

Michael: Housing Services

2010-09-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Michael’s relationship with JFSA started in 2002, when he signed up to be a volunteer at the food bank they help run. So, three years later, when Michael got ill and needed assistance, he knew where he could turn to.

“I went through a very bad period after cancer and physically, for five years, I was very ill,” he said. “They managed to be there, supportive and helpful, getting me into programs and trying to assist me in different ways.”

During his fight with cancer, Michael experienced some of the greatest challenges in his life, on several levels. He was suffering from second-degree burns on his feet and his mother passed away. The JFSA found a wheelchair for Michael to use and helped him deal with his great loss.

“If I wouldn’t have had somebody there to talk to at the time, I don’t know what I would have done,” he said. “I was basically alone. The JFSA supplied me with support and gave me direction of where to go, and what to do.”

The agency helped Michael fast track the seven-year waitlist into subsidized housing. This new start to life, physically, emotionally and financially, helped give him more hope for the future.

Now, Michael has no problem waking up at 5:30 a.m. for the food bank once a week to give back to the community that’s help turn his life around.

“I’m capable of helping and because I receive, I figure I can help in any way,” he said.

To hear Michael's story, please click here.

Daniel: Employment Services

2010-09-08T12:18:00.000-07:00

Daniel knew very little about Canada before he moved here for love. He’d heard it was a notoriously cold country and that it was the home of CN Tower and Niagara Falls. But prior to meeting his Canadian girlfriend in his hometown in Spain, he never imagined he would have any reason to move to this foreign land.

“I saw an opportunity, I met a girl and for me it was a big deal to come to Canada,” he said. “She invited me to come to her country and I saw it as a big jump, to come to know the country and the culture.”

At first he saw it as an adventure. He left his job as a mining engineer behind, along with his friends and family, and made the jump. After a three-month visit, Daniel decided to stay with his girlfriend in Canada. He soon realized his limited English would be a bigger challenge than he expected.

“Everything was a slow process,” he said. “And at the same time, the relationship with the girl didn’t work out.”

Despite ending things with his girlfriend, Daniel soldiered on in Vancouver. He wasn’t prepared to give up and spent two years applying for permanent residency. In that time, he went for job interviews for position in his field, with hopes that a company would sponsor him. But he was too junior, and his limited English was a barrier. No one wanted to take a chance. Daniel was starting to feel defeated. After his papers came in, Daniel found a job in landscaping, and though it wasn’t his chosen field, he was happy for the work. But he was still determined to find something in mining engineering. He wanted to make the most of his life in his new country.

Daniel found an employment skills program that helped spruce up his resume and put him touch with the employment services section at JFSA. Suddenly, everything started to change. He was set up with a caseworker, who found him a job in his field in a matter of weeks.

“I was able to build my professional career thanks to them,” he said. “When I got the call that I start next week, I was so happy, I was so emotional.”

Daniel credits the JFSA for helping start a career overseas, which at times felt like it would be impossible. He attributes them for helping turn everything around.

“I kept pushing but it wasn’t very positive thanks to the economic crisis,” he said. “But JFSA was the push that I was looking for.”

To hear Dan's story, click here.

Mara: Home Support

2010-09-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

When Mara signed up for JFSA’s home care program in 2008, she didn’t expect it would change her life on so many levels. She simply thought a home care worker would tidy around the house and that would be it. But Mara soon discovered that a weekly two-hour visit would help improve her moods, her social life and her financial independence, which was much more than she signed up for.

Several health-related conditions, including a rare neurological disorder, have made it challenging for Mara to live her life to the fullest. Her energy levels are different every day, making it difficult for her work and live on a regular schedule.
For many years, she relied on friends to help around the house. But it eventually came to a point where she didn’t feel comfortable asking for their assistance.

When someone suggested to Mara that she call JFSA’s home care program, she immediately dismissed the idea. She assumed calling for help from a social services agency would mean jumping through hoops. And as someone who is physically limited, she simply didn’t have the energy to deal with bureaucracy. Mara soon found out that the JFSA works in quite the opposite way.

“I told them I’m not a senior citizen but I could use some help. The whole process has been very easy and very respectful,” she said. “I made a phone call, they came to my house, there was an interview and someone was there in a week.”

Every week, a home care worker comes to Mara’s house to help out with cleaning and cooking. As a result, it gives her a sense of independence she hasn’t felt in a long time.

“I’m able to put more energy into my home-based business, since there’s someone who comes over to help tidy and clean and do my dishes,” Mara said. “That’s meant I can be more financially independent so I don’t have to go on disability.”

Not only does she feel better about being on her own, she also feels better with other people. Having her space cleaned regularly means she’s more comfortable inviting friends over.

“It’s hard for me to go out and do things like go to restaurants,” she said. “So it’s nicer for me to socialize with people coming and visiting.”

Mara’s also noticed improvements in her life that she wasn’t expecting. Little things that make a big difference.
“It’s amazing how much of a difference having a clean floor does for my life,” she said. “I think before the house cleaners came, I hadn’t washed the floors in six months and having those floors cleaned every week, it just cheers me right up.”

To hear Mara's story, please click here.

Dan and His Mother Doris: Senior Services

2010-09-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

A simple phone call can go a long way.
That’s what Dan Shmilovitch discovered after JFSA starting playing an active role in his elderly mother’s life.
Doris had reached a point where every day tasks around the house were starting to get daunting. This was unsettling for both Doris and her family. Luckily, JFSA helped ease their concerns.

“Over time my mother has found herself to be less independent, which has been a challenge,” said Dan. “JFSA has made that transition less difficult.” Fiercely independent and wary of connecting with strangers, the 81-year-old was nervous about who she would be letting into her home.

But the staff at JFSA quickly proved that they would go above and beyond what’s required of them.
The agency knows the importance of consistency and tries to send the same staff to help Doris, which makes her feel more comfortable. Doris also always receives a phone call the night before from a staff member, who checks in to make sure there’s anything they should know prior to their visit.This human touch makes Doris feel at ease and, in turn, her family too.

“They genuinely care about my mother and how she’s doing and that her needs have been taken care of,” Dan said. “It’s obviously much more than just a job for them, there’s a genuine caring for the well-being of my mother.”

It’s the human touch that helps JFSA stand out amongst other care facilities. This is something that Dan, his family and most importantly, his mother, truly value.

“It’s been an important thing to myself and my family because we know there’s someone who comes in and makes sure she’s eating properly and if there’s something they notice that is a bit unusual then they let us know,” he said. “It’s much more than someone just stopping in, doing tasks and leaving. There’s a genuine connection there.”

To hear the full story told by Dan, click here.

Baynaynu Second Edition: Podcast Now Available on iTunes

2010-09-08T09:50:00.001-07:00

Click here to listen to the new Baynaynu stories on iTunes.

Youth Financial Literacy Program

2010-09-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

JFSA is pleased to present Financial Literacy Program for Jewish youth ages 15-18 (born to immigrant parents). In this fun, interactive 9 week course you will learn about managing your finances, everything from budgeting and savings (keeping money in your pocket) to credit cards and debt (who wants to take money out of your pocket) as well as learning about investments (how to put more money in your pocket). The sessions will also include a Jewish perspective on how to use your money to give back to your community (tzedakah). You will meet with professionals in the financial field to get a deeper understanding of the topics and for possible career exploration.

Please join Jeff Baker who will be sure to make each session fun, engaging and interactive. Jeff has developed and has been teaching this material to youth through the Vancouver School Board for the past 5 years and has a Masters degree in Educational Leadership with a focus on Personal Finance Education. He has been a teacher and owns his own property management company. Jeff is passionate about teaching youth how to manage their finances today and in the future.

Proposed course times:
Sundays 11 am-1 pm or Wednesdays 4:30-6:15 beginning the week of October 9th.
Location: to be determined. Registration is limited to 12 youth.

To register or to answer any of your questions please call Alexandra (Russian and English speakers) or Miri (Hebrew and English speakers) at 604-257-5151. Upon registration please discuss with us any transportation or dietary needs you/your child may have.

The Alliance for People's Health Immigrant and Refugee Series

2010-09-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

Immigrant and Refugee Health Series – Now Accepting Applications!

The Alliance for People’s Health is excited to announce the upcoming Immigrant and Refugee Health Series. This addition to the People’s Health Series has been long anticipated.

This new series runs for 9 consecutive Thursdays @ 6:30 pm, September 30 to November 25.

Due to the high demand for the sessions and need for consistent participation, they are requesting that people who want to join the series send in the very short application form which can be obtained through their website. They also accept referrals from Social Service Agencies. JFSA's Laura Stannard has also given Tenant Workshops for APH.

APH will be confirming all participants by September 16. For more information please contact:

Alliance for People's Health
allianceforpeopleshealth@gmail.com
604-215-2775
672 E Broadway
Vancouver, BC V5T 1X6

JFSA's Memorable Moments: Pass it on!

2010-08-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

Recently a client came to JFSA looking for assistance in finding employment. One of our Employment Department Counselor’s met with this person and began to gather information about how to best serve him. Our counsellor discovered that the new client was a very skilled Cook, particularly with special diet dishes. Through various internal connections at JFSA our staff was able to find our client a job within the Community, where he has been greatly received. His customers have enjoyed his dishes so much, they've even asked for his recipes!

This initial employment connection through JFSA, paired with his new reputation as a successful Cook has further lead him to other employment opportunities.

This story is a perfect example of how community connection goes a long way! If you're looking for assistance with finding employment, please contact our wonderful Employment, Resettlement and Integration Department at 604-257-5151.

JFSA's Upgrading!

2010-08-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

JFSA's phone system is being upgraded! Please be aware that this may take 2-3 weeks and we appreciate your patience if you experience any difficulties reaching us during this time. JFSA Thanks you again!

The World in a Garden Composting Workshops!

2010-08-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

Partake in an indoor or outdoor composting session – or become an expert at both! Do you have a garden (or garden dreams) that could use natural, inexpensive, nutrient-rich soil? Get to the outdoor session! Are you tired of waiting for the city to bring composting to your apartment building? Why hold back – walk away with your very own vermiculture system! Take your first steps to dramatically reducing waste and enriching your garden.

Sunday, Sept 5th
11 am - 12 pm (outdoor)
12 pm - 1 pm (indoor)
Visit: www.theworldinagarden.com for more details.

Summer Staff BBQ

2010-08-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

On August 12, the staff got together at Jericho Beach to relax, chat and eat some delicious food! Visit our Facebook Album to see the fun!

JFSA Pizza Night

2010-08-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

JFSA Pizza Night!
Dine In or Take Out for a Good Cause!

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company will be will be generously donating 10% of sales to JFSA’s The World in a Garden project. Applies to dine in or take out orders. Come out and enjoy some amazing pizza while giving back to your community, it’s easy to make a difference!

Time: 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: 1876 W 1st Avenue (@ Cypress) Kitsilano
Dates: Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company
It really doesn’t get much better than this: mouth watering pizza that is actually healthy, made by a carbon neutral company! Rocky Mountain’s thin crust artisan creations come fresh from the clay oven and are made with local, organic ingredients that are GMO, transfat and additive free. And if that is not enough this handcrafted pizza is also made with love!
www.rockymountainflatbread.ca

The World in a Garden
The World in a Garden is a multicultural Seed to Table Project and a place where youth and community come together to learn about the culture, nutrition and production of growing organic food. A project of Jewish Family Service Agency, it is open to everyone. If you would like to get involved or learn more about it, please contact Tricia Sedgwick at 604-257-5151
or tsedgwick@jfsa.ca or visit www.theworldinagarden.wordpress.com.

Just like our partners at Rocky Mountain, we believe that food is a vehicle for change and that
food grown in environmentally responsible ways has a variety of nutritional, social and cultural
benefits.

PRIDE Parade: Aug 1st

2010-07-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, Aug 1st is the Vancouver Pride Parade! Parade continues along Robson, Denman, Beach and Pacific. Show your support this weekend!

Employment at JFSA

2010-07-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Check out our job postings: JFSA is looking for a Special Needs Coordintor!

Get Involved!

2010-07-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that this coming Thursday, July 29th, The World In A Garden will be hosting all new volunteers for an orientation and tour of the garden. We welcome past and present volunteers to join us in giving new comers an idea of what volunteering at TWIAG is like. Please meet at The World In A Garden, W. 57th Ave. & E. Blvd., at 6pm and plan on staying until 7pm.

Winter Gardening Workshop

2010-07-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Gain a solid understanding of winter gardening from the Environmental Youth Alliance. Presented by The World in a Garden July 25, from 11 am to 1 pm. For more details, please visit The World in a Garden's blog.

Jewish Food Bank Summer Project Series

2010-07-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

JFSA's Jewish Food Bank is looking to meet client's immediate needs through their Summer Project Series. Projects include:

Backpacks for Children
This Fall children in our community are
in need of backpacks filled with school supplies.
The children in need are of Pre-School,
Middle School and High School age.

Honey for High Holidays
The Jewish Food Bank is looking for honey
for Rosh Hashanah NOW.
Rosh Hashanah does fall early this year.

Centre Pieces
Please remember the Jewish Food Bank
for your next Bar or Bat Mitzvah!
To help us fill this basket please contact us.

For more information on these campaigns please contact
Shelley Ail at 604.272.7252.

For more information about JFSA please contact
Annica Carlsson at 604.257.5151 ext 230 or acarlsson@jfsa.ca .

For more information about JWI-BC, please contact
Sara Ciacci at 604.325.4810.

Rocky Mountain Flatbread at TWIAG This Sunday!

2010-07-12T12:59:00.000-07:00

Great News from The World In A Garden!

Arts & Seed Starts: A Kid's Workshop is coming up and we're expanding our plans for Wednesday. In addition to getting in the garden to plant seeds and make garden art, we'll be working with Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. to enjoy a delicious garden feast! We'll enjoy healthy, organic pizzas plus fruits and veggies we pick from our own garden. Yum - fresh picked salad greens and raspberries for desert!

Don't miss this great opportunity to engage your children, or those you care about, with outdoor learning and fun. Appropriate for ages 4 - 14. Spots are filling up, so call The World In A Garden today [604.257.5151] to sign up!

$20/child. This Wednesday July 14th from 12:30 to 3:30 at The World In A Garden: W. 57th & E. Blvd, Vancouver.

Happy Gardening!

JFSA Employment Program

2010-07-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

The Employment program at JFSA strives to facilitate the integration of skilled professionals into the workforce.

These services include career counseling, job placement, job development, employer awareness and up to date labor market information.

Our pre- screened and job ready participants are from highly skilled areas that include:
Engineering, legal, Information Technology, Administration, Customer Service, Sales, Health Care, Skilled and General Labor,

Additionally we are working in partnership with Mosaic/Skills Connect program – a provincially funded government initiative that provides financial assistance to international professionals for skills upgrading and credential evaluation.

We look forward to speaking with you to further discuss on how our program can address the employment needs of your company.

For employment opportunities please contact: klipton@jfsa.ca or mtal@jfsa.ca

Arts & Seed Starts: A Kid's Workshop!

2010-07-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

July 14th The World in a Garden is holding their Arts and Seed Starts workshop for youth to learn outdoors about working together in the garden! For more details visit The World in a Garden Blog!

Native Edible Plants

2010-07-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

July 11 The World in a Garden will be holding their Native Edible Plants workshop. Visit The World in a Garden Blog for more details!

Bubbe's Virtual Dinner is Here!

2010-07-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

Be sure to visit www.jfsa.ca and join Bubbe's Virtual Dinner Party today!

Tour Vancouver in Russian

2010-06-29T15:33:00.001-07:00

JFSA's Alexandra Gerson is the Tour Vancouver in Russian tour guide. The bus tour will visit various Vancouver landmarks, such as Queen Elizabeth Park, Canada Place, Stanley Park, China Town, Gas Town, Prospect Point, City Hall and many more. All tours are in Russian.

Tour Details:

Sunday July 18
10:30 am - 3 pm

Pick up at the Jewish Community Centre (950 W. 41 Ave) at 10:15 am

$35 per person, must be paid with registration. Limited capacity.
Registration available until July 12 at JFSA

Please Contact Irina at 604.257.5151

New Job Posting!

2010-06-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

Check out the "Jobs" section of our blog. New listing posted for a Part Time Employment Counsellor!

Re-Zoning for Social Housing Projects: Part 2

2010-06-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

Last night Laura Stannard spoke on behalf of JFSA at City Hall public hearing. She spoke regarding the re-zoning of 146 units for singles and female-led households, located at 606 Powell Street. Laura was successful as the council voted unanimously to approve all 146 units!

City staff had originally recommended lowering the height and density of the Powell Street building in discussion, which would have meant the loss of 11 new affordable homes. These homes had actually been previously approved for funding by BC Housing.

The reason for this recommendation, City staff indicated, addressed concerns raised by the Urban Design Panel, and advisory committee that gives impartial and profession advice on any proposal or policy affecting the city's physical environment.

After reading through the Urban Design Panel's minutes, Laura discovered that there were actually no concerns raised regarding the height or density of the building. Laura suggested that by reducing the aforementioned building by 10ft, the only accomplishment would be to satisfy those who are against social housing in their neighbourhood.

Laura continues to speak on behalf of JFSA on Thursday at City Hall for the re-zoning of 103 units at Broadway & Fraser which will be run by Vancouver Native Health and Broadway Youth Resources.

Bubbe's Taking It Viral!

2010-06-23T10:28:00.001-07:00

Bubbe's taking it viral this year. Stay tuned for the infamous Bubbe and her new Virtual Dinner Party. Everyone is invited! You could even win a fabulous new iPad. More details June 30th.

Re-zoning for Social Housing Projects

2010-06-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

Laura Stannard will be speaking on behalf of JFSA at a public hearing tonight at City Hall. She is speaking about the re-zoning of two social housing projects. One project is for 146 units for singles and female-led households, located at 606 Powell Street. The other project is for 103 units at Broadway & Fraser which will be run by Vancouver Native Health and Broadway Youth Resources

As part of the systemic housing advocacy that JFSA does, we frequently speak at City Hall to support social housing projects that come to council for approval.

JFSA's The World in a Garden: A Summer of Garden Learning

2010-06-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Seed to Table Workshop Series! Visit The World in a Garden Blog for more details.

Review: Personnel Department Presentation at JFSA

2010-06-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 15th was The Personnel Department presentation at JFSA. Here is a brief overlook of the main topics discussed: Entering the workforce – Current job market info, Individual and Self Assessment, Network Development, Resume and Cover Letter samples, Information about Job Interviews and Job Offers.

Keep checking in to find our when our next informational employment presentation! Or visit JFSA's Events Page.

Companion Planting - June 27th

2010-06-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

The first workshop in the nine part Seed to Table Series, explore the techniques and benefits of companion planting. Learn how to naturally enhance your garden this summer with mutually beneficial plant species. Take home seeds and a companion planting chart from West Coast Seeds and a copy of Organic Gardening magazine! Held at Vancouver's most fascinating urban agriculture project: The World In A Garden, W. 57th Ave. & E. Blvd. 11 am - 1 pm. $20. Snacks and coffee provided. All proceeds go to The World In A Garden.

We're looking forward to learning with you on the 27th of June. Register today as space is limited!

West Side Pocket Markets

2010-06-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

Kits House and the South Granville Seniors’ Centre will host “pocket markets” from the end of June through mid-September this year. These small, temporary markets will help to bring fresh produce closer to where people live, and in particular seniors who may have trouble accessing nutritious food. The fruits and vegetables will be purchased from west side farmers, but the markets themselves will be run by Kits House staff and volunteer members of the Westside Food Security Collaborative. Pocket markets support local farmers, increase access to healthy food and strengthen the community food system. Vouchers will be available to low income seniors through west side social service agencies. The pocket markets are being offered with the support of the Westside Food Security Collaborative; funding is provided by United Way. Pocket market dates will be posted on the web site and promoted widely. JFSA has been given coupons to distribute to those clients in need.

Summer Pocket Markets
Fresh, affordable, local produce
First Markets:
Fri June 25, 10-12 South Granville Seniors’ Centre
Tues July 6, 1-3pm Kits House

Contact Julie at 604-736-3588
ex. 24 for more information.

Please visit these websites for more information about "Pocket Markets":

Westside Food Security Collaborative

Westside Pocket Markets

Tricia Sedgewick Invited to Speak in Ottawa

2010-06-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to The World in a Garden's Tricia Sedgwick has been asked to speak at TEDxKids@TheHill event, in Ottawa, Sept.16th! For more information about the event, visit: http://tedxkids.ca/about/

JFSA Honoured at by Vancouver Talmud Torah Students

2010-06-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

(left to right: VTT Student Mia Kaye, JFSA Executive Director Joel Kaplan, VTT Student Noa Gurvis)

On Tuesday, June 1st, Jewish Family Service Agency received $600 from Vancouver Talmud Torah’s Grade 7 students Mia Kaye and Noa Gurvis as part of the 3rd Annual Mitzvah of Valuing Philanthropy (MVP) presentation.

The MVP program, which was started by VTT instructor Sari Weintraub, was designed to help students who are at their Bat/Bar Mitzvah age to understand the importance of Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world. As part of their Mitzvah (or commandment), the students are to research various philanthropic agencies with local representation and then allocate funds from their Bat/Bar Mitzvah to the agency of their choice.

Mia and Noa chose Jewish Family Service Agency because, as Noa states, “ (JFSA) does, for lack of a better word, everything. You (JFSA) feed people, get them jobs, help them with family and communal issues get them homes. It’s truly amazing. I’m honored to have been able to help an agency such as this.”

The MVP program has raised around $20,000 the last two years, this year raising $18,000. Although a large part of the donations come from the students and their families, they do have major donors that contribute every year. Other non-profit agencies that were also included in this year’s giving were Alzheimer’s Society of BC, Habitat for Humanity and A Better Life Dog Rescue.

The World in a Garden Blooms

2010-06-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's seven in the morning on a chilly Thursday in May. We pull up to The World In A Garden and see it is still blanketed by a thin layer of silent morning mist.

The stalks of the kale leaves snap in my fingers as I harvest them, shaking off drops of shiny dew. A few picked leaves turn into handfuls of crop, and these handfuls grow into piles of vegetables. We harvest all that is ready to be eaten and maybe pop a few crispy broccoli flowers into our mouths.

Fresh spinach, broccolini, kale, and strawberries are among the delicious fruits and vegetables bursting to life this month at The World In A Garden, located at W 57th Ave. & E Blvd in Kerrisdale.

Lovingly located on city land along the Arbutus Corridor, the Garden reinvigorates otherwise vacant space where railcars on the Canadian National Railway used to zoom by.

Since 2007 The Garden has been producing fresh, nutritious food for community members like clients of the Jewish Food Bank. Throughout the summer we will continue to harvest the garden on Thursday mornings to share with you the joy of eating the freshest natural foods available.

Please come see the wonders of the garden yourself! We welcome you to visit and tour the garden on Wednesday June 30th at 11 am. Contact Lily Canan Reynolds at 604.257.5101 or lcananreynolds@jfsa.ca with any questions.

Written by Lily Canan Reynolds. Featured in this month's Hamotzi.

Calling All Gardeners!

2010-06-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

The World in a Garden is recruiting a 2010 Harvest Team!

What Every Landlord and Tenant Needs to Know: Rights and Responsibilities.

2010-06-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

Last month JFSA hosted a presenter from the Residential Tenancy Branch who discussed Residential Tenancy Law. For more information about this topic visit: http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/content/publications/factSheets.aspx#general

The Personnel Department Presentation at JFSA

2010-05-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 8th at 1:00 PM

The Personnel Department® is a dynamic, global HR solutions corporation. Mr. Sepand Zarrabi Manager, Permanent Recruitment Division of The Personnel Department and two of his colleagues, Bernadette Pughe & David McEwen, will be available for Q&A.
To learn more about this organization please visit their website:
www.goodstaff.com

Al Polsky Golf Tournament

2010-05-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

18th Annual Al Polsky Memorial Golf Tournament, Monday, June 14th. In support of Kosher Meals on Wheels and Senior Meal Programs. Call Kate Petrusa at 604.257.5151 ext.206 for more details.

The World in a Garden Volunteer Day

2010-05-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

You're invited to The World In A Garden this Sunday, May 30th for our: 2010 Spring Volunteer Day!

March for Dignity, Human Rights and Social Justice for People on Welfare

2010-05-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

MARCH FOR PEOPLE ON WELFARE
TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2PM
GATHER AT MAIN AND HASTINGS

http://www.vandu.org/newsevents.html

Omnitsky's Double Mitzvah

2010-05-14T13:07:00.001-07:00

This June, retail customers will receive 5% off purchases of $60* or more, when you donate a minimum of $10** to the Jewish Food Bank.

*Retail Customers only
**$18 minimum for a tax reciept

For more information about the Jewish Food Bank, please
contact Annica Carlsson at JFSA at 604.257.5151 ext 230 or acarlsson@jfsa.ca .
For more information about Jewish Women International-BC, please contact Sara Ciacci at 604.325.4810.

JFSA's Tricia Sedgwick Lives her Life On Purpose

2010-05-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

JFSA's Garden Project Coordinator Tricia Sedgwick was recently interviewed by the Life on Purpose Network, a Vancouver based company dedicated to promoting international philanthropists and non-profit orginizations. In Tricia's interview she describes how her trips to Central America have inspired her to become an advocate for the environment as well as sustainable living. The World in a Garden Project is just one of her many projects that promote food awareness, watch Tricia's full video here: http://lifeonpurposenetwork.com/#trisha-sedgwick

Residential Tenancy Law – A session in English

2010-05-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

Tuesday May 11th from 7pm – 9pm at JFSA.

A presenter from the Residential Tenancy Branch will come in to talk about:

WHAT EVERY LANDLORD AND TENANT NEEDS TO KNOW – Rights and Responsibilities

Have you ever wondered how and why a landlord can retain a tenant's security deposits? How many times a landlord can enter a tenant's unit? Or who is responsible for washing the windows? In this workshop we will review the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants from before you rent to after the tenancy ends. You will have the opportunity to share your experiences and ask questions using your real life examples.

JOLT Article in Jewish Independant

2010-05-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

JOLT (JIAS Opportunity for Leadership Training) is providing a forum where Russian-speaking Jews can identify opportunities for connection and involvement in the community. Nine participants have completed eight workshops ranging from topics on Jewish identity to Jewish communal structure. In addressing some of these issues, there were opportunities to network with lay leaders and Jewish communal professionals. JOLT participants are currently engaged in the internship practicum of the program where participants are matched with a lay leader from the Jewish community as their mentor, to provide practical volunteer experience.

JFSA on YouTube!

2010-05-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Check out our video on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3su_5rdKb4

World In A Garden Event: JFSA Pizza Night!

2010-04-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company will be donating 10% of sales to JFSA's World in a Garden Project, on Tuesday, May 4, from 5 - 9:30 pm! So be sure to get a slice! For more details visit: http://theworldinagarden.wordpress.com/

Innovators Lunch in Jewish Independent

2010-04-29T15:48:00.001-07:00

JFSA's Innovators Lunch article in the Jewish Independent, April 30, 2010

2010-04-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

JFSA would like to extend sincere gratitiude to everyone who helped make the sixth annual Innovators Lunch — which featured founder and CEO of TrendHunter.com Jeremy Gutsche — a great success.

Thank you to our generous sponsors, table captains, volunteers, JFSA board, staff and all of the guests who attended the lunch. We look forward to seeing all of you again next year!

Baynaynu podcast now available on iTunes

2009-12-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

Click to listen to the Baynaynu podcast with iTunes.

Baynaynu podcast is now online!

2009-11-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

Click to listen to our most recent Baynaynu podcast.

Mr. Goldstein: JFSA Seniors Dept.

2009-11-20T14:31:00.001-08:00

There are two sides to Mr. Goldstein: his present and his past. As a younger man, he spent 30 years of his life in the Israeli army. During that time he fought in four wars – the Independent War, Sinai War, the Six Day War and the Yom Kippur War - sustaining life-threatening injuries three times. One time his badly mangled body was pronounced dead and sent to the morgue where a death certificate was administered. Inside the death chamber, Mr. Goldstein felt the frigid air and bolted upright, proving he was not ready to succumb. His death certificate now hangs in a frame on his wall, a reminder of his strength- a reminder of his past.

Mr. Goldstein’s present life takes up much of the space on his walls. Dozens of large-scale, framed tapestry adorn his one bedroom apartment. Some of them are of old-fashion scenery while others are contemporary pieces. Each one is done with patience and persistence, thought and care.

Mr. Goldstein had a hard time sitting still when he returned from the army in 1973, after spending so much of his energy fighting wars, so his wife taught him the art of needlework. He now spends five hours a day on his craft. One piece will take about eight months to complete.

The 83-year-old enjoys needlework because the counting and persistence keeps his brain busy and active. He also credits his weekly outing to Temple Shalom for keeping him active. Every Tuesday he attends the JFSA Seniors Lunch program, where he socializes with 20-25 other attendees.

“At my age, the worst thing is to sit at home and to think,” he says.

The JFSA Seniors Department coordinates and provides services such as Home Support, assessment, case management, and public education for Jewish seniors throughout the Vancouver area. It also sponsors and coordinates two volunteer-run lunch programs that offer healthy meals to seniors. At the seniors lunch program Mr. Goldstein sits with his friends, both young and old, talks politics and laughs.

“You feel that you are connected, that you are not alone,” he says. “You feel that you have someone. When I need JFSA, I have them.”

He says attending the luncheon makes him feel the same way he feels when he has completed a needlework project.

“I can say I am happy,” he says. “I am satisfied.”

Rachel: JFSA Counselling Dept.

2009-11-20T14:30:00.001-08:00

After losing her job last summer, Rachel found herself with a lot of spare time. She had just ended a turbulent relationship with an unstable single father and had quickly entered into another one. It was a brief affair that ended dramatically and Rachel was left feeling like something was wrong with her. She spent a lot of time smoking weed and staying up late, analyzing every aspect of her life. Her friends started to mention that her behavior was erratic and manic. Rachel fell deeper and deeper into depression.

She decided to consult her doctor, who suggested she was bipolar. The idea of taking medication scared Rachel so she looked into counseling. She called BC Family Services and was told it was be at least four months to process her application. Defeated, Rachel hit the bottom and gave up.

A friend who was a psychology major informed Rachel about JFSA. She said it was a little known secret among the social services community. Rachel decided to investigate, as she felt like she had very few other options.

Rachel was put through to the head of the counseling department, Alan Stamp, who listened to her discuss where she was in life and what kind of help she thought she needed.
He told her it would take about two weeks and that he had a counsellor who would be a good match. A month later, Rachel went to her first session with Tami Amit.

The 28-year-old spent several months working with Tami on deep-rooted issues, which she had never before the courage to face. Rachel was amazed at how determined and patient her counsellor was with her.

“She helped me realize how important it was to love myself and never dismiss my feelings” she stated. “I really owe her my life.”

Today, Rachel is working at a job she loves. She surrounded herself with people she trusts and admires. She says she has found a love for herself that she’s never felt before. Rachel has even recommended the services to several of her friends and assures them that they are on the right path.

“I’ve been to the bottom and now I am rising to the top”, she says. “Without JFSA, it would have been a much different story.”

Doron: JFSA Resettlement & Employment Dept.

2009-11-20T14:28:00.001-08:00

Things in Canada aren’t as Doron had imagined them. The Israeli man moved to Vancouver three years ago at the request of his wife, who had heard the country was overflowing with opportunity. He sold his business, applied for immigration and within a year found himself in our picturesque city. However, shortly after arriving, Doron found a much different reality than what he was expecting. He says it feels like bad luck keeps running after him since he left Israel

“When you’re on the other side of the world, you hear one thing, but when you get here, it’s another,” he says.

After moving to Vancouver, Doron’s marriage fell apart and an ugly custody battled ensued. He recounts his life in Israel as happy and carefree, which is a stark contrast to his new reality. Doron likens it to the reality show Survivor, where he is fighting to stay on the island.
And while his life in Vancouver may parallel the cutthroat reality series he does have one thing that helps him feel like he has immunity, at least momentarily. Doron credits the JFSA Resettlement and Employment Services Department for being his life raft during these difficult few years.

“The goal for JFSA is to make someone else’s life easier,” he says. “They’re here to fill the gap between what you need, what you can achieve and how you can do it.”

JFSA helped Doron navigate his way through his new life, putting him in touch with legal advice in his custody dispute, helping him find a second job and educating him on the ins and outs of his newly adopted country. The staff at JFSA spoke his language and understood his challenge.

“They’re willing to hear you when you’re struggling with nowhere to go,” he says. “They’re really on the same page.”

Debbie: JFSA Basic Resource Services Dept.

2009-11-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

While volunteering at the Vancouver Jewish Food Bank recently, Debbie Rootman experienced something that made her realize the difference she was making in someone else’s life.

She had finished her volunteer shift and was counting and packing up all the leftover goods into a storage closet. Debbie likens this task to putting together a puzzle, as the space is small and the goods need to be packed efficiently. As she was finishing up her complex task, two clients arrived. One had traveled from White Rock with her two children, hoping to recieve some food. Debbie went back to the storage closet and unpacked everything so that the client could leave with her bags full.

“It made me feel good that we didn’t turn them away,” she says. We open our arms to everyone.”

Debbie knows the food bank, which is run by JFSA and Jewish Women International BC, makes a difference in people’s lives. It offers fresh produce from the JFSA
community garden and canned goods to those who need it. One family in particular sticks out in her mind – they have five children and the wife travels on the Skytrain and bus to take back several bags of food and packages of diapers.

“That makes me feel good that we can provide something for her,” Debbie says.

She says the face of clients who use the food bank has changed. In the past, it was mostly people on fixed incomes and seniors. Now it’s younger families and young adults who have lost their jobs or are experiencing other difficulties. The close relationship the Jewish Food Bank has with other food banks and kitchens in the Lower Mainland ensures that no donation gets wasted. Debbie stresses that this is just the nature of such an important community service.

“There’s a lot of people who are doing the right thing and a lot of unsung heroes,” she says. “The community knows that if there’s a need, they can fulfill it.”

Diane: JFSA Development Dept.

2009-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

Diane Switzer is a former president of the JFSA Board of Directors. She held that role between 1994 and 1997. Although it’s been more than a decade since she’s been on the board, her connection to the agency remains strong – Diane continues to be a proud donor.

She considers JFSA to be one of the only organizations committed almost solely to the most vulnerable population of the community - be it through feeding the less privileged, helping immigrants resettle or offering counselling to those who need it. During her time at JFSA, Diane witnessed a wave of Yugoslavian immigrants coming through the agency, looking for help and guidance.

“For all those things that newcomers need, JFSA has always made a difference,” she said.

Diane commends the staff and volunteers at JFSA for being the most dedicated she’s seen in an organization.

“People stay with the organization for a very long time,” she said.

Diane uses herself as an example. Her personal experience with the agency has helped make it part of her life to this day.

“I give to JFSA as my specific charity of choice in the community because of that connection to service delivery,” she said. “You know that your money is going to programs that help the vulnerable in our community.”