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Welcome back— we’re so grateful to have you with us!
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As 2025 came to a close, we were continually inspired by the power of community and the compassion that drives real change. Whether you’ve given your time, resources, or voice to support our mission, you’re helping build a brighter future for everyone we serve.
In this edition, you’ll discover uplifting stories, important updates, and new opportunities to stay engaged. Let’s keep moving forward—because together, we’re creating something extraordinary.
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JFSC is celebrating 65 years!
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JFSC is proud to celebrate 65 years of helping our community grow stronger together. This milestone reflects the incredible support of donors, volunteers, and staff who make our mission possible.
Join us April 30th for our Annual Event to celebrate! – Details to come.
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Annual JFSC Charity Golf Classic
Save the date!
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The 11th Annual JFSC Charity Golf Classic is just around the corner, mark your calendars for August 13, 2026, at The Cottonwood Golf and Country Club.
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Andrea Scharfstein & Hayden RubensohnTwo generous monthly donors whose commitment to community support is truly inspiring
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In October, we had the privilege of giving Andrea and Hayden a tour of JFSC. They were deeply moved by the breadth and impact of our programs and left with a profound respect for the work we do in the community.
Andrea, a dedicated teacher currently focused on raising their two young boys, and Hayden, a physician specializing in palliative care and internal medicine, are passionate monthly donors. Their contributions directly support the Wynne Thal Pantry, helping families meet their basic needs.
Andrea’s journey of giving back began in high school during her time at Camp BB Riback, where she volunteered at the Red Deer Food Bank. Later, while living in Vancouver, she worked at JFS Vancouver and was introduced to their Food Program. During their stay at BC Women’s and Children’s Hospital after welcoming their first son, Andrea and Hayden were inspired by a thoughtful food ordering system that minimized waste—an experience that left a lasting impression.
After moving to Calgary, Andrea noticed the Wynne Thal Pantry donation bin at Glenmore Landing Safeway. That simple moment sparked their commitment to monthly giving in support of JFSC’s food security and basic needs programs.
In addition to championing food insecurity issues, Andrea and Hayden are also proud parents advocating for autism awareness and acceptance.
They are continually inspired by the Jewish value of tzedakah—giving with purpose and compassion—and believe deeply in the power of community care. For them, supporting JFSC is a meaningful and practical way to help make the world a better place.
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Inspired by Andrea and Hayden’s story?
Join our community of monthly donors and help make a lasting impact |
A Huge Thank You and Todah Rabah! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mimi Breitman and her incredible group of donors, CHW, and the Brothers of the Masonic Lodge for their hard work and dedication in gathering toys for our Toy Drive, over 220 gifts were handed out. Your efforts have brought joy and smiles to so many children and families, and we couldn’t have done it without your giving hearts and shared purpose.
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The Holidays were busy and filled with kindness and generosity
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A Huge Thank You and Todah Rabah! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mimi Breitman and her incredible group of donors, CHW, and the Brothers of the Masonic Lodge for their hard work and dedication in gathering toys for our Toy Drive, over 220 gifts were handed out. Your efforts have brought joy and smiles to so many children and families, and we couldn’t have done it without your giving hearts and shared purpose.
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Sewing Kits and Blankets |
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Sharing, caring and warmth. Thank you to the Shawl-om Project for their continued support donating hand made shawls and lap blankets for our clients. |
The Women of Rimon Calgary graciously put together 26 sewing kits for our Basic Needs Program and were very much appreciated. |  |
Meet our Team: Samantha Porter Facilitator of the Memory Care and Caregiver Support Programs |
 | Samantha Porter’s journey into social work was deeply influenced by her personal experience with dementia. While studying psychology and neuroscience during her undergraduate years, her grandmother was diagnosed with vascular dementia. This pivotal moment shifted her focus from the scientific study of the brain to the complex family dynamics and real-life challenges that dementia presents. |
After completing her Bachelor of Science, Samantha pursued a Master of Social Work with a specialization in gerontology at the University of Toronto. Relocating to Calgary with her husband provided an opportunity to join JFSC, where she has now contributed for nearly five years.
In her current role, Samantha provides individual counseling and facilitates group support sessions for caregivers, develops tailored activity tool kits for people living with dementia, offers access to vital resources, information and referrals, and supervises Memory Care Volunteers and trains them in the Best Friends Approach — a values-based method that promotes empathy, dignity, and meaningful connection. What Samantha finds most rewarding is the opportunity to engage directly with people living with dementia, learning from their stories and strengths. “It’s a powerful reminder that the person’s essence remains despite the progression of the disease.” She also highlights the importance of supporting caregivers, encouraging them to recognize their own needs and prioritize self-care, which is essential for sustaining their mental health and well-being. Working alongside dedicated volunteers adds another layer of inspiration to her work. At the heart of Samantha’s approach is fostering a sense of belonging and emotional support within the community. “We make sure no one has to face these challenges in isolation,” she explains. She emphasizes that enhancing quality of life for individuals living with dementia must go hand-in-hand with supporting the mental health of their caregivers. Both aspects are essential to preserving dignity, resilience, and meaningful relationships as families navigate the challenges of aging. Samantha’s commitment is driven by the growing prevalence of dementia and the escalating demand for specialized support. “Programs like ours are increasingly vital. We focus on building resilience, strengthening social networks, and improving quality of life for both caregivers and those affected by dementia.” Fun Fact: Samantha has been married for two years and shares her home with Isla, her beloved Mini Labradoodle. A modern-day Snow White, she also enjoys the company of the local wildlife that visits her backyard. In Her Clients’ Words: “Together we are building a caregiver manual.”
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The need for connection and engagement does not disappear with the diagnosis of memory loss, or dementia.
Our Memory Care volunteers come to your home for one-on-one activity support, while providing the opportunity for caregiver respite. Trained through the Alzheimer Society of Calgary’s Best Friends Approach™, volunteers build relationships and offer individually catered activities for cognitive, physical, social, and emotional support.
Memory Care Information
Volunteer in our Memory Care Program and build meaningful relationships by exploring individual interests. We provide personalized activity toolkits, dementia care training and ongoing support. |
Caregiver Support Programs |
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Caregiver roles are rewarding but can also pose challenges and have significant impacts on family and relationship dynamics. When “caregiver stress” is unaddressed, it can build into “caregiver burnout”, a physical, emotional and mental exhaustion.
“Alone we are strong, together we are stronger”
Caregiver Support Information
“I have been to 4 or 5 other caregiver groups throughout the pandemic, and this is the best one I have attended. There is always a plan for our time together and resources shared.” - Caring Together Group Member |
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A Journey of Connection and Care: Volunteering with JFSC
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My journey with JFSC began during a volunteer week event, where I visited their booth out of curiosity. At the time, I was involved in a project between the University of Calgary and JFSC focused on Memory Care. That’s where I met Samantha, and that encounter sparked the beginning of a meaningful volunteer experience.
Our visits have become a cherished routine. We begin by catching up over tea or coffee, sharing updates about our lives. Then we engage in a cognitive activity—whether it’s a puzzle, an art project, or a brain game. We often take breaks to go for a walk or spend time in the garden, enjoying the fresh air and each other’s company.
My decision to volunteer with JFSC was deeply influenced by my background in nursing. During my practicum, I worked with older adults in long-term care, particularly in a dementia program. That experience piqued my interest in understanding how acute care could be extended into the community. Volunteering with JFSC felt like a natural extension of that curiosity and a perfect fit for my values.
To anyone considering volunteering, I would say: it’s an incredible learning opportunity. You step outside your own world and into someone else’s, forming a reciprocal relationship that fosters personal growth and understanding.
What has surprised me most is the depth of the relationships I’ve built. Volunteering has helped me step out of my bubble and appreciate the value of genuine human connection. My clients have welcomed me into their lives, and in doing so, we’ve formed real friendships.
One of my proudest achievements was with my first client in the FVP. He was very reserved, and I was still a shy nursing student, unsure of myself and the world. Despite the distance and the limitations of phone calls, we bonded over shared interests like TV shows. He eventually opened up about his pain issues, and I was able to advocate for him. We met in person once before he passed away, and that meeting left a lasting impact on me. It shaped how I approached my next client, with more confidence and compassion.
Volunteering has also influenced my professional development. While nursing school focused heavily on medical decisions, volunteering gave me insight into life beyond the hospital. It helped me become more compassionate and aware of the broader picture of care.
Looking ahead, I hope JFSC continues to expand its collaborations with other organizations and universities. I’d love to see more young people get involved and for the agency to become more widely known. There’s a beautiful potential in pairing seniors and youth—especially in a post-COVID world where many are seeking meaningful social connections. |
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- FSC has an on-going need for volunteers. The most needed area is Memory Care and Friendly Visitor. As a JFSC volunteer, you can touch the lives of those most in need in our community by working together with our staff to provide innovative and vitally needed services to others.
- Get ready to make meaningful connections and have a blast! Generations at Play is volunteer-powered program that brings smiles and companionship to seniors living in Calgary, AB. You’ll team up with awesome students, share some great conversations, and enjoy a game or two of your choice. Let the good times roll! Please register as spots are limited. Winter Sessions
Please contact Sarah Marsh at sarahm@jfsc.org |
Thank you for your incredible support!
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Rogers Birdies for Kids, presented by AltaLink, is a non-profit program under the Rogers Charity Classic Foundation. Each year, the program allows donors to contribute to various charities, with all the donations matched up to 50%. Donations to JFSC through Birdies for Kids totaled $32,695, and with the generous matching contribution of $13,400, your impact was amplified even further!
This is such a fantastic opportunity because every dollar you give goes beyond its original value—helping us make an even greater difference for kids in need.
Look for Birdies 2026 Information to come. |
Celebrating our Life & Legacy donors
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Your vision and generosity create a foundation for tomorrow. Thank you for shaping our future.
Find out more about LIFE & LEGACY |
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Caregiver Support Groups - Winter 2026
Generations at Play – Winter sessions begin January 28, 2026
Spring Food Drive – May 23 – April 1 |
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Stay Connected! Keep up to date on what’s going on at JFSC - our events, programs, and what we are doing is regularly updated on our website and social media channels. Feel free to follow us, like and share our posts. |
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