We acknowledge that our work takes place on the unceded, ancestral and traditional territory of the xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɁɬ / səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Inclusion Respect Courage Creativity Care Accountability Pride
Sustainability. Stability. Legacy.
As we embark on another year of service and impact, there’s an undeniable energy of excitement and positivity pulsating through the halls of JFS. With 3,000 people walking through our doors seeking nourishment for their bodies, minds, and spirits, we are inspired to continue our mission of providing essential resources and support to our community.
In the fall of 2022, our leadership team charted a new course with a five-year Strategic Plan. This plan is our roadmap for the future, guiding us toward social impact, community engagement, sustainability, and staff wellbeing. Each priority serves as a beacon of hope for the change we want to see in the world.
With this plan in place, our focus this year was on expanding and enriching our programs to meet the growing needs of our community. In a world of increased disparity and need, JFS has a unique ability to adapt and provide crucial support to those who are most marginalized.
The challenges of the ever-increasing cost of living and global unrest have taken a toll on our community’s mental health. Through our counselling and therapy programs, we’re providing vital support to those in need. Our expanded Community Kitchen programs ensure that everyone has access to nutritious meals, regardless of their income.
Our advocacy work continues to raise awareness about the pressing issues facing our community.
As our population ages, we’re committed to supporting older adults, including Holocaust survivors, with dignity and care.
We also have some exciting news! For the first time in JFS’s history, we secured a building on Commercial Drive thanks to the generosity of local philanthropists. This space will soon become the permanent home for all our social service offerings, ensuring our long-term sustainability and fulfilling our vision of lives uplifted and a world repaired. We hope you will join us as we embark on this transformative journey together!
It was a year of growth and change. Fortunately, that’s what JFS does best — remains responsive, resilient, innovative, and authentic. While we adapt to changes to help the community build resilience, JFS stays committed to Tikkun Olam — repairing the world.
Thank you for your support and care. We look forward to dreaming, learning, and growing together.
With much appreciation,
TANJA DEMAJO CEO
JODY DALES Board Chair
THE KITCHEN
Access to basic resources, stability and nourishment through food, financial assistance, and advocacy
LIFELONG VITALITY
Celebration, connection, and care for older adults throughout their aging journey
MISSION
Guided by the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), JFS supports the social, physical, and emotional wellness of people of all ages.
HEALING & BECOMING
Counselling and compassionate support programs for those working to overcome mental health and addiction challenges
EMPOWERING Holocaust Survivors
Over the past six years, our Claims Conference program has magnified its impact from a $300,000 annual support to an extraordinary $1.3 million. This remarkable growth has enabled us to uplift the lives of over 160 Holocaust survivors, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve.
TRANSFORMING Lives Through Home Support
What began as a humble initiative 15 years ago with just one worker and 8 clients has blossomed into a beacon of support for over 450 older adults. Our JFS Home Support program now boasts a team of over 60 dedicated home support workers, predominantly comprising women and immigrants, who tirelessly serve our community.
NURTURING
Tomorrow’s Counsellors
Through strategic university partnerships, we began the Counselling Internship clinic in 2021. This initiative has not only nurtured the growth of over 30 budding counsellors but has also provided essential support to over 500 individuals, fostering mental well-being across our community.
SOLVING Hunger, One Meal at a Time
The inauguration of The Kitchen in April 2021 has been a gamechanger for food security in our community. Serving as a hub for our grocery and meals program, along with community kitchen sessions that empower participants with new skills and recipes, this innovative space welcomes over 1,600 people monthly, ensuring no one goes hungry.
AMPLIFYING
Client Voices
We take immense pride in having established a Client Advisory Committee, a platform where the voices of our clients are not just heard but valued. Since its inception in 2019, this committee has spearheaded over 30 impactful recommendations, including the implementation of a robust feedback and complaint process, ensuring continuous improvement and client satisfaction.
CHAMPIONING LGBTQ+ Support
Our strategic partnership with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community and JQT Vancouver stands as a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and support. Through initiatives like Twice Blessed, we offer vital resources and a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals and families, fostering a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and embraced.
JFS at Work
JFS works year-round to support over 3,000 children, adults, and older adults to become more resilient and connected with resources to build a stronger community.
Look at what $7.2 million has done in our community!
“Knowing that JFS ‘has my back’ and will be there for me is extraordinarily important to me.”
1,600 by distributing groceries, meals, and grocery cards each month lives enriched
420 accessed food, counseling, and food education children more than people
1,200
displaced Ukrainian families
over
3,000 were provided support in the ways they needed to enhance their lives received wrap around support services
over people in our community
received holistic support, including crisis management, counseling, advocacy, and emergency financial aid
Holocaust survivors
160 benefited from financial aid and integrated JFS services
1,000 received learning and home support services comfortably in their own homes
older adults
Stories and Inspiration
Throughout our 88-year journey, JFS has consistently emphasized the importance of fostering a resilient community and forging meaningful connections. Within the JFS community, each person — be it a client, volunteer, staff member, donor, or partner — holds a vital and unique role. Collaboration and teamwork are at the heart of our endeavors, as we recognize that achieving greater goals necessitates reliance on one another. This ethos is evident in our daily practices. The following stories offer a glimpse into the transformative power of teamwork and partnership in driving community change and growth.
Community Kitchens
Building Connection & Confidence
In the summer of 2022, Richard reached out to JFS for help and connection. When the Community Kitchen program was introduced in May 2023, Richard was encouraged to attend a session. After only one, he was immediately hooked. Since then, he’s attended every Community Kitchen event.
“The welcoming space and the way we intentionally deliver our programs and teach people skills in our Community Kitchen sends an important message to the public: we all have a basic right to healthy food, connections, and health. I am proud to be a part of the vision that connects people, like Richard, and builds their resilience,” says Aviya Kones, JFS Food Security Community Programs Coordinator.
In Richard’s journey with the Community Kitchens program, he has not only learned valuable culinary skills and enjoyed shared meals but has also forged deep connections with fellow participants, fostering meaningful friendships along the way. Through his involvement, Richard has experienced a significant personal transformation, emerging with newfound confidence and a sense of purpose. Empowered by his positive experiences within the program, Richard has taken the initiative to give back to his community by volunteering with the Grocery Program. By dedicating his time and energy to support others in need, Richard exemplifies the ripple effect of community engagement and the profound impact it can have on individual lives and the broader community.
“JFS saved my life. It felt like 2023 would have been an awful year had it not been for JFS.” — Richard
The Next Generation Gaining Real Life Skills
Food Lab, a pilot project between JFS and Richmond Jewish Day School (RJDS), started in 2022. This program goes beyond simply teaching students in grades 4-7 how to cook a meal. It’s an immersive experience where they not only learn culinary skills but also grasp the significance of food literacy. They understand the profound value of their mitzvah, the act of feeding their entire school, which instills a sense of responsibility and community spirit.
Each month, teams of four to six students collaborate to prepare wholesome, and nutritious, Kosher meals. In this fun cooking experience, students get to learn practical kitchen skills they can use every day. They also discover new plant-based proteins, fruits, and veggies, all while having a blast! Plus, they learn why it’s important to eat healthy and understand where our food comes from.
“The students at RJDS have absolutely loved the weekly hot lunches,” said principal Sabrina Bhojani. “Our parents have also expressed their delight with this program, knowing that their children are receiving a warm, healthy, and nutritious meal at school.” In addition to preparing the food, Bhojani adds, “They are also learning about making informed decisions about food choices and food safety.”
RJDS students come from varying backgrounds and financial backgrounds. The Food Lab program exemplifies our commitment to ensuring equal access to nutritious food while upholding the principles of dignity and respect for all. By prioritizing food equity, we believe we are not only nourishing our students’ bodies but also nurturing their future health and resilience.
Intergenerational Dialogue Learning from Each Other
At JFS, we’re passionate about making sure everyone’s voice is heard. We’re also dedicated to tackling loneliness and busting stereotypes about different age groups. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce our latest project: “Learning From Each Other.” It’s not just any initiative — it’s an exciting opportunity for intergenerational dialogue and social connection!
Twelve older adults came together with a group of high school students, members of Congregation Beth Israel’s “Chai School” for games, food, and thoughtprovoking conversation. Through discussions touching on technology, traditions, cultural heritage, and family, the participants explored multiple perspectives and learned from each other. Although born decades apart, they quickly discovered the different generations were grounded in the same values. In fact, attendees left
with greater empathy, respect, and appreciation for each other’s perspectives and approaches to life.
“Connecting older adults with younger generations helps reduce isolation and creates a sense of connection and understanding that benefit everyone involved,” says Cindy McMillan, JFS Director of Programs and Partnerships. “This program also makes people feel seen and heard.”
In the long term, initiatives like “Learning From Each Other” contribute to building a more cohesive and inclusive community. By fostering empathy and understanding between generations, we pave the way for stronger social bonds and a sense of belonging for all members.
The Intergenerational Dialogue was made possible through funding from Vancouver Coastal Health.
Advocacy Rights
Don’t Get Old
The BC Seniors’ Advocate reports that in the past five years, reports of abuse and neglect against seniors have surged dramatically, signaling a pressing need for action. Shockingly, there’s been a 49% increase in reports of abuse to health authorities and a 69% rise in reports of victims of violent crime to the RCMP.
At JFS, we’re deeply committed to combating this troubling trend. That’s why we hosted “Rights Don’t Get Old,” a thought-provoking event held at the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This event shed light on the rising victimization of older adults, covering a range of abuses from physical and emotional to financial, perpetrated by strangers, caregivers, family, or friends.
Reflecting on the event, one attendee remarked, “I thought the seniors event was informative and
insightful, but not until my dearest 94-year-old friend began showing early signs of dementia did I realize how instructional the conference was and how much more helpful I was to him as a result.” With over 1,000 older adult clients, JFS recognizes the urgency of educating vulnerable individuals and those who care for them.
Our guest speakers, including Michael Lee, MLA for Vancouver-Langara, BC Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie, and Linda Youk from Seniors First BC, provided invaluable insights and guidance. Together, we’re working tirelessly to ensure our community ages safely and with dignity because every senior deserves to live their golden years in safety and respect.
The event was made possible through funding from United Way Better at Home, Vancouver Coastal Health, and the May and Stanley Smith Foundation.
Settlement Services
Settling & Thriving
In 2022, our community quickly mobilized to welcome Ukrainians fleeing their war-torn country. In partnership with Temple Sholom and Schara Tzedeck, Charlotte Katzen was brought on board as the Community Liaison to facilitate access to Welcome Circles — designed to connect newcomers to local families, employment and other services, including those offered through JFS. Charlotte’s past experience as a resettlement worker and Executive Director of JFS made for an easy transition into this role as it combined her passions to help this group of people.
Looking back on the past year, Charlotte feels deeply satisfied with the success of the program. “Most arrivals have settled well in Vancouver and some have been in touch with me to share good news, like receiving a PR status.” Charlotte goes on to share, “Today, some of the families have reunited with their spouses, and children have become fluent in English
and are attending school and making new friends. After many unsuccessful and discouraging interviews, some have also found employment and are working hard to gain Canadian experience and slowly break into the Canadian job market. Despite the painful experience of fleeing a war and leaving family and friends behind, we saw courage, resilience, and determination to build a new life in Canada.”
The impact of initiatives like the Welcome Circles and the Food Skills for Families Program extends far beyond mere participation. These programs serve as vital lifelines for newcomers, providing them with a sense of belonging and connection to their community.
“The two things that are keeping me strong are the wonderful suite me and my family are in and the school the children are attending.”
— Ukrainian client
Innovators Lunch
The 17th Annual JFS Innovators luncheon, co-sponsored by Austeville Properties and Shay (Shy) Keil, raised over $442,000 to support JFS programming and services. The 550 attendees were treated to a remarkable event themed “Imagine the Future” with keynote speaker and Global Futurist, Anders Sörman-Nilsson. Attendees also heard about the inspiring story of Michael Narvey and the ripple effect JFS’s help had on him and his family.
We deeply appreciate our volunteers, partners, sponsors, donors, and clients for being a part of this year’s Innovators Lunch. Toda Raba!
Innovators Lunch Committee
Candice Thal, Co-Chair
Todd Thal, Co-Chair
Tamar Bakonyi
Jody Dales
Brent Davis
Tanja Demajo, JFS
Shannon Ezekiel
Bill Kaplan
Moti Kotik
Dan Steiner
Sherri Wise
Thank You to All of Our Sponsors
CO-PRESENTING SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSOR
VIDEO SPONSOR PLATINUM SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
Donor Spotlight
Candice and Todd Thal
Todd and Candice Thal have been loyal supporters of JFS for the past eight years, generously donating their time and resources as dedicated donors and volunteers. When asked about their motivation for supporting the organization, Candice reflected on her own teenage years and how the support of an agency like JFS could have made a positive impact.
The Thals’ deep understanding of JFS’ valuable work drives their ongoing commitment to vital programs that impact thousands of children, adults, and older adults. With the high cost of living in Vancouver, they especially recognize the importance of food security and housing services for those in need. They also appreciate the fact that JFS serves not only the Jewish community, but the broader community as well.
“As parents to three young children, we are deeply intentional in our actions”, say Todd and Candice. “We strive to instill values that go beyond the confines of our home, aiming to teach our kids the importance of giving back to those less fortunate, regardless of their background. In our eyes, JFS stands out as one of the best and most essential organizations in Vancouver. For us, fostering empathy and a sense of responsibility towards the community is paramount.”
“ Tzedakah and acts of kindness are the equivalent of all the mitzvot of the Torah.”
— Jerusalem Talmud, Pe’ah 1:1
Thank
you!
Your support is invaluable to us and makes a world of difference.
The list of donors reflects the giving period of September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023.
VISIONARY CIRCLE
$50,000+
Ben & Esther Dayson Charitable Foundation
Community Action Initiative Conference on Jewish Material
Claims Against Germany, Inc.
Dales, Jody and Harvey
Diamond Foundation/JFSA Endowment for Seniors & Poverty Relief
Edwina & Paul Heller Endowment Fund for JFSA
Greenberg, Lorne
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
May and Stanley Smith Charitable Trust
Province of British Columbia
The Azrieli Foundation
The Phyliss and Irving Snider Foundation
United Way British Columbia
PREMIERE CIRCLE
$25,000–$49,999
Austeville Properties Ltd.
City of Vancouver
Diamond, Craig and Carrie Diamond, Isabelle
Diamond Family/JFSA Endowment for Seniors & Poverty Relief
Families of Dr. George Gordon, Dr. Morris Gordon, Barbara Gordon and Susan Vierba
Henriette & Leonard White
Endowment Fund
Levine, Risa and Bill
Shay (Shy) Keil Group
Stern, Ronald and Janet
The Arnold and Anita Silber Family Foundation
The Shafran Families, Devonshire Properties
CAPTAIN CIRCLE
$10,000–$24,999
Al Roadburg Foundation
Allied Salvage and Metals (1985) Ltd.
Averbach, Gary
Berkowitz, Heather and Dr. Jonathan
Cristall Group Investments Inc.
Druker, Mannie and Armelle
Estate of Amelia Boxer
Estate of Fay Manis
Glassman, Rose Marie
Glotman Simpson Group of Companies
Glotman, Barry and Lauri
Government of Canada and Gender Equality Canada
John Grot Memorial FundVancouver Foundation
Kagan, Lynn
Kahn Foundation
Klein, Jeff and Wendi
Kroft, Dr. Susan
Leipsic, Dr. Jonathon & Karly
Lohn Foundation
Markin, Robert
Phyliss & Irving Snider
Endowment Fund for JFSA
Pulver, Douglas and Lana
Puterman, Dr. Martin and Katzenstein, Dodie
Robert and Marilyn Krell Family Fund
Sarah Lipovsky Endowment Fund for JFSA
Schwartzman, Elaine
Shaw, Dr. Stan and Vallance, Dr. Hilary
Sherman, Lauren
Spevakow Family Foundation
Thau, Issac and Judy
The Lutsky Family Foundation
The Zacks Family Charitable Foundation
Vancouver Coastal Health Authority
ZLC Financial
GUARDIAN CIRCLE
$5,000–$9,999
Acton Ostry Architects Inc
Axium Infrastructure
Belmont Properties
Belzberg, Frances
Bernstein, Rabbi Rokie
Betty Averbach Foundation
BMO Private Investment Counsel Inc.
Bob and Helen Coleman
Philanthropic Fund
Bogner, Beth and Leon
Bressler, Dr. Brian and Dalia
Brovender, Marsha
Connor, Clark & Lunn Private Capital
Davis, Haley and Ryan
Dranly Holdings Ltd
EKB
Face The World Foundation Friedmann, Daniel and Marilyn Goldman, David Google
Government Of Canada
Greenbrier Holdings
Guralnick, Dr. Marla and Pekarsky, Josh
Hayden, Dr. Michael and Sandra Higa, Mackenzie
James, Karen
Kaplan, Bill and Etti
Kaplan, Frank and Freda
Kaufman, Meredith
Lachman, William and Pamela Lantern Properties Ltd.
Laskin, Megan and Elliot
Lawson Lundell
Lederman, Dean and Julia
Lutsky, Jack and Mendelson, Susan
Mackoff, Les and Hoy, Patricia
Marsid Family Foundation
Miller, Norman and Sandra
Oberlander, Judy and Wexler, Dr. Mark
Petro-Canada CareMakers Foundation
RBC Phillips, Hager & North Investment Counsel Inc
Rothstein, Harley and Boyle, Eleanor
Sachs, Michael and Shira
Scotiabank
Silber, Barbara and Herbert
Stephan & Sophie Lewar JIAS
Canada Endowment Fund
at the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto
TD Bank Financial Group
Teck Resources Limited
Value Industries Ltd
Wolfe, Heather
Wolfe, Myles and Solomon, Barby
Zacks, Ted and Mann, Linda
Zlotnik, Garry
PATRON CIRCLE
$1,800–$4,999
Adelson, Vivienne (z”l)
Avalon Dairy
Becker, Paul
Beiser, Roberta and Black, Allan Bell, Sidnee and Brian
Berkow, Ruth and Weissberg, Elliott
Berkson, Michael and Braha, Lori
Beth Israel Rabbi Discretionary Fund
Bojm Funt & Gibbons LLP
Bullard, Glenn
Bulldog Bag Ltd
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management
Capital West Mortgage Inc.
Charney, Andrew
Chetner, Kerri and Rob
Cisco
Cohen, Linda and Gary
Cohen, Rena and Parnell, Richard
Cooper, Hillary and Robert
Cossever, Michael
Dachner, Arnon and Allison
Davis, Geraldine and Melvin
Dayhu Investments Ltd.
Demajo, Aleksandar and Tanja
DMCL LLP
Dodek, Dr. Arthur and Judith
Dolguina, Svetlana
Dreyer Group
Franks, Norman and Marlene
Freedman, Brad and Wolfman, Pamela
Gasoi, Dr. Ivan and Laurie
George & Bell Consulting
Glass, Leonard
Glotman, Geoffrey and Myriam
Green, Dr. Sheldon and Carmita
Green, Sondra
Greene, Morley
Gropper, Dr. Peter and Marla
Gutman, Dr. Samuel and Belinda
Gutovich, Harold and Mainster, Gail
Hector, Robert and Sue
Hirsch, Shirley and Dr. Gabriel
JD Patent & Trademark Ltd.
Kalla, Tim and Tammy and Burrard Podiatry
Kallner, Howard and Simone
Klein, Russ and Youngson, Deborah
Kort, Beverley and Schachter, Ray
KPMG LLP
Kramer, Fay
Lakeview Village Residences Ltd
Landa, Mendy and Lana
Legacy Senior Living
Levin, Dr. Ivor and Gaynor
Levy, Michael
Lewis, Shoshana and Shawn
Lubin, Dr. Stan and Jean
Lyle Pullan Enterprises Ltd.
Maelor Vallance Holdings Inc.
Maloon, Dr. Stephen and Deborah
Markovitch, Leah
Mate, George and Dani
Mayer, Rachel
Mermelstein, Dr. Robert and Elke
Micner, Jack and Karen
Millman, Michael and Carol Mills, Norman
National Council of Jewish Women of Canada - Vancouver
Nemetz, Dr. Peter and Roma
Olfman, Bernard
Paperny, David and Mehler, Audrey
Paperny, Raechelle
Pawer, Lola
Porte Communities
Ritch, Ron and Paperny, Cathy
Rivkin, Shelley
Rockel Group
Ross, Matthew and Dana Rothman, Eddie and Ricki
Sacks, Rhonda and David
Sarfaty, Galit
Satov, Lori
Segev LLP
Shafran, Anita
Shafron, Syd
Shapiro, Dr. Daniel and Miller, Frieda
Sharon Kates
Shaw-Millman, Dr. Dorothy
Silber, Stacey and Andison, Chris
Sniderman, Dr. Jack
Steinbok, Dr. Paul and Edie
Steiner, Daniel
Switzer, Jacob
Thal, Candice and Todd
The Arnold and Anita Silber Family Foundation
The Federation of Community Social Services of BC
The Walden Family Fund, held at Vancouver Foundation
Vallance, Muriel
van Noordenne, Jan and Anna
Vertlieb, Art and Briscoe, Beverley
Vinegar, Larry and Schwartzman, Dr. Marcy
Vivian Li Personal Real Estate Corporation
Weinstein, Jason Weinstein, Marilyn and Arthur Weinstein, Matthew
Weinstein, Roxanne Wenner, Ted and Wise, Zoe
Winestock, Natasha and Yale
Wosk, Yosef
Zacks, Juliet
BENEFACTOR CIRCLE
$1,000–$1,799
Abramson, Arnold and Carole
Ames, Richard and Darlene
Argent Realty Inc.
Bakonyi, David and Tamar
Benbasat, Izak and Julyet
Bergen, Raymond Blitz, Maud
Broudy, Sandra and Robbins, Tobin
Buckwold, Ruth and Kline, Ron Camerman, Eve
Canreal Management Corporation
Chernov, Philip and Carol
To the anonymous donors who each donated $1,000 or more, your generous acts are more than just financial support; they are silent affirmations of the commitment you have made to making a difference in the world.
Cohen, Marlene
Congregation Beth Israel
Diamond, Jill and Abramowich, Andrew
Dodek, Dr. Daniel and Michelle
Eisman, Marion and Louis
Fedder, Steven
Fine, Arnold and Susan
Fish, Michael and Christina
Forman, Julian and Jessica
Frankel, David and Ethel
Fred and Minnie Toft Foundation
Fugman, Susan
Gaerber, Stephen and Shari
Garaway, Larry and Miri
Gelfant, Dr. Benjamin
Ginsburg, David and Clara
Gladstone, Arlene and Cameron, Hamish
Glanzberg, Marcy and Dr. Monte
Glesby, Harley and Karen
Goldberg, Jeffrey and Meredith, Hilary
Goldenberg, Evelyn
Goldstein, Ronald and Judy
Grubner, Brenda and Ruben
Guerra Garza, Oziel
Haramia, Joanne
Horwitz, Jeremy and Yael
Hurwitz, Al
James, Arlene
James, Mark
James, Michael and Gail
James, Rebecca and Joshua
Kape, Chris
Katzen, Charlotte and Barry
Kierszenblat, Melanie and Michael Kling, Bernice
Landsberg, Drs. David and Tamara
Laye, Estarisa and Dr. Ronald
Leshgold, Jack
Levine-Collett, Sarah and Collett, Max
Lewis, Rachel
Luketic, Josip
Matthews, Brian
Mina, Michelle and Eli Moscovich, Phyllis and Michael Nadel, Josephine
National Mah Jongg League Inc.
Ninkovic, Tea and Zarko
Or Shalom Synagogue
Peralta, Ana
Pinsky, Bernard and Givon, Daniella
Pinsky, Carolyn
Rootman, Merle and Manuel
Rothstein, Marshall and Sheila
Sadovnick, Aaron and Dessa
Samuels, Melanie
Sandler, Jacci and Brett
Schutzbank, Marc and Labow, Ilana
Schwartz, Dana Schwartz, Daniel
Schwartz, Dr. Patricia and Robert
Shapiro, Pnina
Shugarman, Ruthie and Dan Simpson, Bernie and Lee Simpson, Samantha
Singerman, Michaela and Matthew
Sirlin, Heather and Kenney, Alan
Stern, Nancy and Schacter, Stephen
Stuhler, Gideon and Renate
Suedfeld, Dr. Peter
Switzer, Dr. Phil and Diane Tenenbaum, Linda and Wener, Brian
Tessler, Dr. Barry and Ronnie
The B.A. Himel Family Foundation
Thinque Pty Ltd
Tick, Stephen and Susan Tolensky, Peter and Jamie
Vallance, Susan and Wade, Alastair
Vancouver Talmud Torah Association
Varshney, Praveen
Wener, Judi and Carl Wenner, Richard and Dodek
Wenner, Gail
Williams, Susan
Woolstone, Cheryl
Wormeli, Ted and Dale
GOLDEN CIRCLE
Lifetime Cumulative Gift of $100,000+
Austeville Properties Ltd. Averbach, Gary
Bernstein, Rabbi Rokie
Dales, Jody and Harvey Diamond Family/JFSA Endowment for Seniors & Poverty Relief
Diamond Foundation
Diamond, Craig and Carrie Diamond, Isabelle Druker, Mannie and Armelle Edwina & Paul Heller Endowment Fund for JFSA
Families of Dr. George Gordon, Dr. Morris Gordon, Barbara Gordon and Susan Vierba Glotman Simpson Group of Companies
Golden, Fay and Kenneth (z”l) Greenberg, Lorne and Zack, Sari (z”l)
Henriette & Leonard White Endowment Fund
J I A S
JNHM Wolfe
John Grot Memorial Fund –Vancouver Foundation
Kahn Foundation
Keil, Shay and Mickey Levine, Bill and Risa
Lohn Foundation
Markin, Ralph (z”l)
Markin, Robert
Marsid Family Foundation
May and Stanley Smith Charitable Trust
Pollock, Dr. Neil and Michelle
Robert and Marilyn Krell
Family Fund
Sarah Lipovsky Endowment Fund for JFSA
Shnier, Charles
Stern, Ronald and Janet
The Arnold and Anita Silber Family Foundation
The Azrieli Foundation
The Ben and Esther Dayson
Charitable Foundation
The Jim Pattison Foundation
The Lutsky Family Foundation
The Phyliss and Irving Snider Foundation/Endowment Fund
The Zacks Family Charitable Foundation
Wosk, Yosef
Zalkow Foundation
* Totals include gifts-in-kind. If we have omitted or incorrectly listed your name, please contact the Development Office.
To the 1,374 individuals who have collectively provided JFS with $331,000 of funds by donating gifts ranging from $1 to $999: This is not just a thank you, it’s a resounding chorus of gratitude! Your generosity is etched into the hearts of those who are helped by your compassion.
Community Partners
“Success is best when it’s shared.” — Howard Schultz
Adler University
Artisan Bake Shoppe
Athianna Acres
Azrieli Foundation
Batter Up
Bayit Food Hub
Beth Hamidrash
Beth Israel
Beth Tikvah
Bulldog Bag Ltd
Burquest Jewish Community Association
Chabad Richmond
Chabad-Lubavitch
Christ Church Cathedral
CIJA
City Beet Farm
City of Vancouver
CityReach Care Society
Congregation Har El
Congregation Schara Tzedeck
Fife Bakery
Food Runner
Food Stash
Foundations for Social Change
Funny farm
Greater Vancouver Food Bank
Har-EI Food Hub
Haro Park Centre Society
Hazon
Hebrew Free Loan Association
Hillel BC
JACS
Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver
Jewish Seniors Alliance
Jewish Women International-BC
JQT Vancouver
Kehila Society of Richmond
King David High School
Kitsilano Neighbourhood House
Little Mountain Neighbourhood House
Louis Briar Home and Hospital
Marpole Neighbourhood House
May and Stanley Smith Charitable Foundation
MLA Anne Kang’s Burnaby–Deer Lake Constituency Office
Mosaic
National Mah Jongg League Inc.
Natures Path
Omnitsky Kosher
Or Shalom
Peretz Centre for Jewish Secular Culture
Rabbinical Association of Vancouver (RAV)
RAPS
Real Canadian Superstore
Richmond Jewish Day School
Solly’s Bagelry
South Surrey Food Hub
South Vancouver Neighbourhood House
South Vancouver Senior’s Network
SPEC
Stable Harvest
Temple Sholom
Terra Breads
The Vancouver Jewish Building Society
The Vancouver Yaffa Housing Society
Tikva Housing Society
UBC Farm
UBC Land and Food Systems
United Way British Columbia
University of British Columbia
Vancouver Coastal Health
Vancouver Hebrew Academy
Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
Vancouver Neighbourhood Food Networks
Vancouver Talmud Torah
West 1st Chiropractic Wellness Centre
West Coast Seed
White Rock South Surrey JCC
Windset Farms
York University
Social services for Jewish Nazi victims have been supported by a grant from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany
MEMBERSHIP
Partner Highlight
Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
The Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre (VHEC), founded in 1983, is a teaching museum dedicated to anti-racist Holocaust education, the sharing of stories from its survivor community, and commemorating those who have perished.
After many years working with VHEC informally, in 2022 an official partnership was formed to enhance supports in the community and to ensure Holocaust survivors are able to age at home with dignity. JFS is now sharing space, volunteers, and are planning joint socialization events in 2024 to ensure survivors’ needs are being met.
Through our partnership with the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre (VHEC), we also initiated a six-week writing therapy workshop last year. The “Descendants of Holocaust Survivors: Sharing Our Voices” workshop brought participants together over Zoom to share their life experiences, identities, and voices through the written word. Facilitators create a space where individuals found solace and understanding, while providing tools to navigate the complex terrain of historical trauma.
VHEC was the 2023 recipient of the JFS Community Partner Award.
“It
is wonderful to have a community partner committed to helping us deliver thriving socialization programs like the writing workshop and the child survivor and Russian-speaking survivor groups at the Centre and throughout the Lower Mainland.”
— Irena Gurevich, Claims Conference Care Manager
Financial Review
2022–2023 Fiscal Year
JFS is grateful for another year of strong support from our amazing donors who enabled us to serve over 3,000 community members.
$6,753,992
Expenses
$7,237,451
Permanent Home for Jewish Family Services
With the development of our new Strategic Plan, it was clear that JFS needs a permanent home in order to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability and the holistic care of our community. The newly purchased commercial building on Commercial Drive will serve as the hub for all our social service programs and organizational administration.
We are so excited to create a nurturing space for collaboration between staff, volunteers, and clients.
The new building, that will be named in honour of the Roadburg family, gives JFS the space we need to house staff and programs that are currently distributed across two locations, with room to grow in the coming years. This is a boon to our organizational efficiency, allowing our programs to be better integrated together and ensuring our community members receive the best care possible.
By continually enhancing efficiency, we can ensure the money entrusted to us by our donors and funders is put to good use and changes as many lives as possible.
A heartfelt Todah Rabah to the Vancouver philanthropists who have started us on this path:
• Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation
• Al Roadburg Foundation
• Harvey and Jody Dales
• Diamond Foundation
• Ben and Esther Dayson Charitable Foundation
Your belief in the importance of our shared mission is humbling and continues to inspire us daily.
“We are pleased to support the development of the new facility for Jewish Family Services of Vancouver to carry the Roadburg family name. This provides a long-term solution for JFS, locating JFS’ critical services and administration in a central location near transit and helping ensure more people can get access.”
— Stephen Gaerber Director, Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation
Past Board Chair of Jewish Family Services
What’s Ahead Strategic Plan 2023–2028: Realigning Our Role and Purpose
Impact
Effecting social impact
Changing the lives of those who need it most in our community. Our programs and services will be meaningful, have lasting social impact, and address the pressing challenges faced by individuals and families.
Engagement
Engaging our community
Ensuring that our clients, partners, donors, supporters and friends all feel a deep connection to JFS and our work. A sense of community is at the heart of our work, and by fostering deep connections, we ensure that our collective efforts are more impactful.
The JFS Leadership Team took a deep dive this past year to gain a clearer picture of our strengths and better understand our challenges. Embracing that knowledge has led us to developing a blueprint that will guide the way we work every day — more
Sustainability
Deepening organizational sustainability
Richer collaborations with new partnerships and exploring innovative revenue generation avenues are essential to ensuring we have the resources required to make a lasting and relevant difference.
aligned and ready to support our staff and the evolving needs of our growing community.
Our new Strategic Plan is a visionary path for our future.
Fostering a healthy workplace Organization
By continuing to build upon a welcoming, safe and inclusive work environment for staff, volunteers and everyone involved with our organization we will be able to achieve our Mission.
Board of Directors & Leadership
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jody Dales, Board Chair
Michael Kaplen, Treasurer
Simone Kallner, Secretary
Donna Cantor, Member
Kerri Chetner, Member
Eli Joseph, Member
Stacey Kape, Member
Bill Kaplan, Member
Shannon Gorski, Member
Eric Bojm, Member
Madison Slobin, Member
Jacob Switzer, Member
Natasha Winestock, Member
Sherri Wise, Member
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Tanja Demajo Chief Executive Officer
Stacy Friedman Director of Food Security
Cindy McMillan Director of Programs and Community Partnerships
Eric Ngai Controller
Rachel Shanken Director of Operations
Alan Stamp, MSc, PCFTTA Clinical Director
Charitable Registration
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