COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

Our Jewish community is strengthened by countless volunteer leaders whose dedication, service, and leadership make a meaningful impact every day. We invite you to browse this year’s community honourees who are being recognized by the organizations and institutions they support for their valuable contributions.

Associated Hebrew day Schools

Our mission is to produce graduates with the confidence to reach their full potential, the passion to be everyday heroes, and the pride to carry the torch of Jewish continuity.

Katie Rochwerg

I volunteer at AHS because I value the impact of a united and engaged community. Working alongside the dedicated parents, administration, staff, and students has been both inspiring and rewarding, and I’m honoured to help strengthen a school that continues to make such a meaningful difference for my family and so many others.

Bialik Hebrew Day School

Bialik Hebrew Day School is committed to providing an exemplary Jewish and general education to children with diverse Jewish backgrounds from junior kindergarten to Grade 8. Our commitment to Jewish values, academic excellence, and innovation inspires our students to become future Canadian and Jewish community leaders.

Moran Eichler

I strive to contribute to people’s sense of belonging to the Bialik community. Helping members feel supported and valued benefits all of us, giving us a deeper sense of connection and purpose.

Chabad of Markham

Chabad of Markham's mission is to strengthen and enhance Jewish family life by providing non-judgmental, accepting, and personalized Jewish experiences for all Jews regardless of their background, philosophy, or level of commitment. Chabad of Markham serves as an open door for individuals and families seeking an anchor and a deeper connection to their Jewish heritage in Thornhill and northeast Toronto.

Lauri Cohen

I volunteer at Chabad Lubavitch of Markham because I love involving myself and my family in volunteer work, especially giving back to this wonderful community. In doing so, I am afforded the opportunity to teach my children core Jewish values of doing for others without expecting anything in return and showing love for your fellow Jew.

Circle of Care, Adult Day Program

Circle of Care’s Adult Day Program has been purpose-built to support individuals living with memory loss and or physical frailty, ensuring they find joy and purpose in their day.

Joan Shiner

I happily volunteer for Circle of Care’s Adult Day Program because I am so grateful to be able to give back to the very program that helped my husband Murray for so many years.

Friends of JNF Canada

For decades the Jewish National Fund of Canada has cared for the land of Israel. This mission took the role of planting trees, building water reservoirs, preserving natural habitats, and building parks and bicycle trails.

Donna Cohen

Volunteering has given me more than I could ever give back. It has enriched my life with a sense of purpose, community, and friendships.

Kehilla

Kehilla Residential Programme identifies and champions affordable housing initiatives responsive to the needs of the Jewish community in the Greater Toronto Area. We implement this through education, awareness, project sponsorship, development consultation, and research.

Brenda Izen

Volunteering with Kehilla is a deeply meaningful part of my life. It’s an expression of my belief that everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a place to call home. I know that volunteering is what keeps our community strong and united, and I feel passionate about doing my part to advance the cause of affordable housing. As an architect, I spend much of my time working on homes for the few, so I’m always grateful for the opportunity to give back in a way that aligns my skills with my values, and helps build a more just and caring community.

OneFamily Fund

OneFamily Fund Canada raises funds and public awareness to improve the lives of survivors of terrorism in Israel. OneFamily in Israel provides therapeutic, emotional, educational, and financial support by bringing survivors into a “family” that includes fellow victims of terror, volunteers, therapists, and other professionals. Relationships that are formed between survivors of terror in Israel and their supporters here in Canada are life-changing for all involved.

Ellen Little

I started volunteering in 2012 for OneFamily Fund Canada. My role as a youth and community outreach co-ordinator means I am involved in multiple facets of the organization. My work at OneFamily can be divided into three pillars: youth engagement and tzedakah projects, assisting with the Camp Timberlane program for our bereaved campers, and continuously advocating and fundraising for the organization. It is truly an honour to be part of this incredible organization.

Prosserman JCC

The Prosserman JCC's mission is to be a hub of community, dedicated to enriching Jewish life through meaningful shared experiences.

Lorne Goldstein

Lorne’s steadfast support of the Prosserman JCC’s vision, combined with his thoughtful leadership, reflects his ability to balance meaningful community impact with a strong commitment to financial sustainability, ensuring our mission remains vibrant and future-focused.

Tamim Academy of York Region

Tamim Academy aims to empower students for purposeful lives by fostering kindness, self-efficacy, a passion for learning, and eternal Jewish values—all within a nurturing community that develops the whole child intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Students are prepared to lead meaningful and productive lives grounded in Jewish values.

Marly Broudi

I volunteer at Tamim Academy because Jewish education is our community's lifeline. During these challenging times, I'm committed to helping build Tamim's exposure so the school is recognized, celebrated, and a source of strength for Jewish families.

Associated Hebrew Schools of Toronto

Our mission is to produce graduates with the confidence to reach their full potential, the passion to be everyday heroes, and the pride to carry the torch of Jewish continuity.

Lauri Cohen

Our Jewish day schools play an essential role in nurturing the values, traditions, and spirit that define our community. Volunteering at Associated Hebrew Schools has been my small way of supporting the incredible work they do in shaping our children and the future of the Jewish community in Toronto. ​​

Canadian Friends of Sheba Medical Center

Canadian Friends of Sheba is dedicated to raising awareness and philanthropic support for Sheba Medical Center’s compassionate care, groundbreaking research, and world-class medical education. Over the years, our community has continued to grow and strengthen, advancing Sheba’s mission to heal, innovate, and inspire hope in Israel and around the world.

Daryl Roitman

I volunteer for Canadian Friends of Sheba Medical Center because I truly believe in what Sheba stands for. More than a hospital, Sheba is a city of health, hope, and innovation—a place that transforms lives through compassion, research, and cutting-edge care. Through its ARC innovation platform, Sheba brings together brilliant minds from around the world to drive breakthroughs with global impact. I’m inspired by its vision to reimagine what’s possible in health care and to create a brighter, healthier future for all.

Circle of Care

Circle of Care provides exceptional, innovative care so people can stay independent, connected, and safe in their homes and communities.

Arthur Krause

I continue to volunteer for Circle of Care because of the deep satisfaction I derive seeing my modest contribution, providing a brief period of contact and compassion to vulnerable members of our community, making a little difference in their daily lives.

FRIENDS OF YIDDISH

Our mission is ensuring the continuity and growth of the Yiddish language and the Ashkenazi culture. Being true to our mandate of keeping Yiddish alive, we offer Yiddish spoken programs that include films, lectures, musical events and parties.

Liba Radovski-Levin

I volunteer for this organization because Yiddish is important to me and my family, and I enjoy being part of an organization that brings new life to Yiddish.

Netivot HaTorah

Netivot HaTorah is an Orthodox, co-educational Jewish day school that inspires students to engage in their communities and in society at large. The school has excellent Jewish and general studies programs, and an educational philosophy based on three guiding principles: Torah, Israel, and Derech Eretz.

Daniella Greenspan

I volunteer for Netivot because I am deeply committed to the school’s mission and grateful for the chance to give back to the community that fosters my children’s development, instills their values, and inspires their lifelong love of learning and Judaism.

Ontario Jewish Archives

The Ontario Jewish Archives serves as a living bridge between past, present, and future by collecting, preserving, managing, and making accessible the documented heritage of Jewish people across Ontario. Our work connects researchers, families, and communities to these historical materials; strengthening Jewish identity, fostering intergenerational and cultural connections, and building opportunities to express our vibrant cultural legacy.

Sharona Brookman

I am proud and honoured to be part of the vital work that the Ontario Jewish Archives does to preserve and promote our community’s rich history and heritage.

Reena Foundation

Reena is a non-profit organization that promotes dignity, individuality, independence, personal growth, and community inclusion for people with diverse abilities within a framework of Jewish culture and values.

Marnie Silver

Reena improves the lives of vulnerable members of our community. I feel privileged to be part of such an incredible organization—one that is constantly innovating and extending its reach to help more people.

Tanenbaum CHAT

The mission of TanenbaumCHAT is to challenge, support, and prepare students to live lives of high moral character, intellectual curiosity, Jewish commitment, and civic duty.

Shelley Samel

At a time when our community faces unprecedented challenges, I am proud to volunteer in support of TanenbaumCHAT, which provides a safe and secure space for students to learn, grow, and embrace their Jewish identity, ensuring the continuity and vitality of our community for generations to come.

Beit Halochem Canada, Aid to Disabled Veterans of Israel

Beit Halochem Canada, Aid to Disabled Veterans of Israel is committed to rehabilitating, rebuilding, and enhancing the lives of more than 50,000 Israelis critically injured through acts of terror. Leading-edge Beit Halochem Centers across Israel provide specialized sports, recreational, and rehabilitative programs.

Toby Feldberg

As its National President, I’m honoured to lead Beit Halochem Canada, an organization helping Israel’s critically injured veterans to rehabilitate and reclaim their lives at leading-edge Beit Halochem Centres across Israel. We owe everything to these courageous men and women.

Canadian Friends of the Israel Guide Dog Center

The Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind is dedicated to improving the quality of life of visually impaired Israelis. We provide them with mobility, independence, self-confidence and companionship through the faithful assistance of guide dogs specially trained in Hebrew to meet Israel’s rigorous and challenging environment. Founded in 1991, the Israel Guide Dog Center serves Israel’s 24,000 blind and visually impaired citizens and is the only internationally accredited guide dog program in the country.

Marcia Sokolowski

As an adolescent, I asked my father, a survivor of Auschwitz, how he never gave up hope. He replied that he had a strong desire to help others, and this willed him to survive.

My volunteer work as president of the Canadian Friends of the Guide Dogs of Israel breathes life into his legacy.

It enables me and thus my talented committee to support the esteemed values, goals, and interests of this incredible centre in enriching the lives of many Israelis on the autism spectrum, and those experiencing vision loss and PTSD.

Circle of Care, MOW location (Sepha)

Circle of Care provides exceptional, innovative care so people can stay independent, connected, and safe in their homes and communities.

Earle Friedman

I volunteer for Circle of Care because I know how important it is to give something back to the community. I am so fond of my “clients” whom I have gotten to know so well over the years.

Holy Blossom Temple

Holy Blossom Temple, Toronto’s first synagogue, is a leading Canadian Reform Jewish congregation with a rich history of responding to both tradition and modernity in our religious and spiritual expression. We pursue meaningful opportunities for personal growth, belonging, and family fulfillment at every stage of life through learning, prayer, and ritual; and acts of service for our congregation, community, our city and country, the Reform movement, Israel, and around the world.

Paula Warren

I volunteer for Holy Blossom because I found that my interests, skills, and experience could help strengthen a community that has become my family.

In the words of Holy Blossom's Senior Rabbi, Yael Splansky: “Paula Warren has been extraordinary for many years: leading services of many kinds; chanting from the Torah; singing in our Temple Singers choir; organizing Dorot, our weekly program for seniors; devising our popular Games in the Atrium program; and leading monthly Israeli dancing.”

Maon Noam Congregation

Maon Noam offers a warm, welcoming home for the Jewish community. Respect and tolerance for every Jew are both our philosophy and way of being. Our mandate is to enhance our community’s quality of life, and we offer fabulous events and projects for community members at every age and stage.

Rosa Danilov

God wants us all to do good things, and I respect our Rabbi Levi Yitzchok Rabiski.

Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School

Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School provides children and their families with an open door to diverse Jewish life and education in a unique downtown community. We strive to deliver an excellent Jewish and general education that fosters critical thinking, social justice, and artistic expression, while nurturing a love for Jewish tradition, values, and culture.

David Rezmovitz

I volunteer for Paul Penna because this community profoundly shaped our daughter’s learning. Supporting their vision and collaborating with the inspiring leadership team has been deeply meaningful and a true honour for our whole family.

Schwartz/Reisman Centre

The Schwartz/Reisman Centre’s mission is to be a hub of community, dedicated to enriching Jewish life through meaningful shared experiences.

Howard Klerer

Howard’s unwavering dedication, strategic insight, and pursuit of excellence consistently elevate the Board's work. His high standards and thoughtful guidance help ensure that every decision advances the Schwartz/Reisman Centre’s mission with clarity, integrity, and impact.

The Canadian Shaare Zedek Hospital Foundation

The Canadian Shaare Zedek Hospital Foundation exists to raise funds for the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem. As the fastest-growing hospital in the region, Shaare Zedek continues to respond to the needs of Jerusalem’s uniquely diverse population. Shaare Zedek is internationally recognized as a medical pioneer, both in Israel and around the world.

Hinda Silber

I volunteer for the Canadian Shaare Zedek Hospital Foundation because I believe in the power of community to transform lives. Supporting health and well-being through Shaare Zedek allows me to give back, inspire others, and build a stronger future.

Bialik Hebrew Day School

Bialik Hebrew Day School is committed to providing an exemplary Jewish and general education to children with diverse Jewish backgrounds from junior kindergarten to Grade 8. Our commitment to Jewish values, academic excellence, and innovation inspires our students to become future Canadian and Jewish community leaders.

Devra Abraham

I volunteer for Bialik because I treasure Toronto’s vibrant Jewish community and feel a duty to help strengthen it. I want my kids to see the impact that we can each have on our community when we focus our efforts, work together, and donate our time. ​​

Canadian Hadassah-WIZO

CHW passionately supports programs and services for children, healthcare, and women in Israel and Canada.

Tova Train

I volunteer for CHW because I am proud of the direct impact we make on the lives of Israelis and Canadians. For more than 100 years, we have shared and celebrated our Canadian communities, our shared history, and our deep devotion to Zionism.

Chabad Romano Centre

Chabad Romano, led by Rabbi Mendel and Toby Bernstein, is a warm and growing Chabad community that serves Jewish families through a community centre, shul, preschool, and a wide range of events, activities, services, and clubs. Through divinely providential support from community partners, the organization secured a dedicated home that enabled continued growth. With the addition of Rabbi Shlomo and Ella Vorovitch, Chabad Romano expanded its ability to support youth programming, Hebrew school, bar mitzvahs, and family lifecycle needs. Today, Chabad Romano offers an inclusive and vibrant hub for Jewish life, education, and community connection.

Faith Ross

They have given meaning to my life.

Holy Blossom Temple

Holy Blossom Temple, Toronto’s first synagogue, is a leading Canadian Reform Jewish congregation with a rich history of responding to both tradition and modernity in our religious and spiritual expression. We pursue meaningful opportunities for personal growth, belonging, and family fulfillment at every stage of life through learning, prayer, and ritual; and acts of service for our congregation, community, our city and country, the Reform movement, Israel, and around the world.

Jacqueline Friedland

Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF)

Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF) supports the best and brightest scientists conducting groundbreaking cancer research in Israel.

Dov Zevy

I love the fact that ICRF supports the best and brightest leading scientists conducting groundbreaking cancer research in Israel at multiple institutions, finding cures for all types of cancer.

Maon Noam Congregation

Maon Noam offers a warm, welcoming home for the Jewish community. Respect and tolerance for every Jew are both our philosophy and way of being. Our mandate is to enhance our community’s quality of life, and we offer fabulous events and projects for community members at every age and stage.

Raisa Kazhdan

I think our main purpose in life is to do good. If we respect and value each other, we will feel the need to help other people as much as we can!

Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School

Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School provides children and their families with an open door to diverse Jewish life and education in a unique downtown community. We strive to deliver an excellent Jewish and general education that fosters critical thinking, social justice, and artistic expression, while nurturing a love for Jewish tradition, values, and culture.

Ryan Morein

I volunteer for Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School because I wanted to find a way to give back and help my son's school and the downtown Jewish community at large. Thankfully the opportunity presented itself in a way where I knew I could help effectively and I couldn't be happier with the results.

Robbins Hebrew Academy

At RHA, we have developed a curriculum that is at the cutting edge of academic innovation. Based on decades of research by the world’s best minds in education, our pedagogy inspires students to explore, discover, debate, and imagine—the very skills researchers have identified as essential for becoming original thinkers and principled leaders.

Tamar Mandel

Volunteering at RHA has been an integral part of my life for 10 years. Through my roles as ShinShin lay leader and Parents' Association member, I’ve built meaningful connections, strengthened community, and nurtured our school’s spirit.

The Leo Baeck Day School

Leo Baeck, a nurturing and inclusive Reform Jewish day school, offers International Baccalaureate academics, paired with a modern approach to Judaism that honours tradition and encourages individual choice. We inspire students to be creative and critical thinkers who understand themselves and their responsibility to the world around them.

Marc Bissell

I volunteer for Leo Baeck because it’s a community that embodies compassion and connection. Supporting a school that delivers an exceptional education while strengthening Jewish identity and a love of Israel reflects my values and hopes for future generations.