Along with the major winds and snow squall we encountered this past week I too have seen a ‘flurry’ of activity start to pick up with our staff and volunteers. The Partnership2Gether committee has been planning another virtual mifgash (exchange) for Edmonton teens with friends in Israel for Tu B’shevat, and we are looking forward to the free Family Day Weekend Staycation in February. You can register now for the PJ Havdallah Program (kits can be purchased for $5) and the cooking class and Machane Yehuda market tour is not to be missed!

We are all affected by COVID-19 in different ways. If you are concerned about your mental health or that of a friend or loved one, Jewish Family Services has confidential counselling services available. They can also be contacted for assistance with food and other financial needs, confidentially. Looking to volunteer? They can use your help to prepare or deliver care packages to seniors in isolation. 

This past week the Holocaust Education Committee met their new chair, Colin Muscat, who brings enthusiasm and commitment to this role. With the help of Shane Asbell who will ensure seamless continuity I am eager to see all that they will accomplish. International Holocaust Remembrance Day is January 27. I hope to see you at the Deborah Lipstadt speaker event and if you are a social media user, join me in the #WeRemember Campaign.

Although it is only my third week as CEO, I have been asked a few times to provide a perspective or a response on a matter on behalf of the community. This outreach has put me in contact with people across the city whether for antiracism initiatives or with executive directors of other social service agencies. If you have a matter of concern to you I will strive to listen and handle it with diplomacy and respect for all. I can be reached at ceo@edjfed.org. 

Shabbat shalom,

Stacey