For the very first time, students from JF&CS' Jerome D. Diamond Adolescent Centre (JDD) took part in the TDSB Northern Section Chess Tournament on March 21st.  This would never have been possible without the Chess Program taught by Tal Granite (pictured left), that has been made available to our students through generous donor funding these past few years.  

Six students attended the tournament, one of whom who had just started to learn the game this academic year.  

Then, as if that wasn't exciting enough, on April 6th, the students were treated to a screening of the critically acclaimed Disney film, Queen of Katwe, the true story of 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi who lived in the slums of Uganda until her world changed one day when she met Robert Katende, a missionary who taught children how to play chess.  When the film ended, our students were shocked and thrilled to learn that the real Phiona and Robert were there in person to surprise them!  The experience was remarkable and we cannot thank Tal, Phiona and Robert enough for making this day one that will always be remembered!     

PLANTING ROOTS IN OUR COMMUNITY On April 20th, Jewish Family & Child hosted its second Planting Roots event to teach the community about the importance of permanence for Jewish youth who have grown up in our foster care system.   Watch Brad and Adina's story. Despite the rain, more than 150 people showed their commitment to helping our children and youth. Irwin Elman, the Provincial Advocate for Children & Youth gave the keynote address and spoke about his personal connection to our community and then directly to the youth in attendance, renewing his commitment to doing everything in his power to ensure their lives are filled with opportunities and a sense of belonging. Watch Cassandra's story. Elaine Ash, a Social Worker and adoptive parent, spoke honestly and from the heart. One of our youth performed a spoken word piece and others talked about the relationships they’ve built in the face of monumental challenges.  Over and over we heard the same message - the perseverance, acceptance and unconditional love of our staff and foster families wasn’t just life-changing, it was life-saving.    To learn how you can help, please visit www.jfandcs.com/fosterandadopt

adjective • cringe·wor·thy • \ˈkrinj-ˌwər-thē\  
causing feelings of embarrassment or awkwardness

Heartbreak. Hair catastrophes. Teenage Angst.  We've all been there. Now it's time to relive those dreadful moments and be thankful we've made it through our awkward phase... hopefully!  

Join us on May 25th at the Opera House in Toronto for a trip down memory lane, as people share their most embarrassing teen stories, live on stage.  Money raised at our 3rd Annual Cringe Worthy event will benefit JF&CS' High Achievers Scholarship Fund which helps disadvantaged young adults pursue post-secondary education. Former foster children and youth from low-income families can receive financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition, textbooks, and computers.

April 23 to 29 is National Volunteer Week across Canada.  

Jewish Family & Child extends its sincere appreciation to all of our outstanding volunteers. We are privileged that so many people seem to find their way to us with offers to step up and help. From sorting and organizing our Just A Second Shop, to joining our Board of Directors - we simply could not run this organization without you! To learn more about the many volunteer opportunities available at JF&CS, please visit www.jfandcs.com/volunteer

THANK YOU!