Solelniks Helping Solelniks … and the Wider Community

It has always been a practice at Solel for members to help both our members and our community and I’m pleased to have this opportunity to showcase just some of the many people who make this happen and the many ways in which they make it happen.

The Mitzvah Committee is at the top of the list. Headed in the past by Marlene Tash, these individuals make sure that no one is forgotten when there is a loss or a celebration, or someone just needs connection. Phone calls are made on a weekly basis to members who need a little extra TLC, as well as to others when, as noted above, there is a loss or a celebration. Trees are ordered and cards are sent, all to ensure that just because we can’t meet in person, doesn’t mean that you are forgotten.

Adding on to the work of the Mitzvah Committee are the Women of Solel. Currently headed by Jayne Temple, these ladies can be found in the Solel kitchen once a quarter, cooking and baking up a storm for delivery to members who appreciate the visit as much as the yummy meal. Speaking of which, this group will be gathering at 12:15 p.m. on November 9 at Solel – lunch and a discussion about future plans and then into the kitchen to make Chilli and Corn Bread and cookies (after all, no meal would be complete without dessert). Please RSVP to Jayne if you can join us so there will be enough lunch for all.

Women of Solel also participate in the cGaming program (formerly known as Bingo) and always welcome new volunteers for this important project. With the funds earned by their volunteer hours they are able to make donations to three or four community organizations every year.

Past recipients of these funds include ErinOaks Kids with the main support going to their Independent Living Program that offers clients ages 16-19 an opportunity to learn life skills while living in an accessible apartment with 24-hour attendant care services available while attending the program.

Another organization that benefits from Women of Solel funding is Embrave, a facility that provides a broad range of supports to survivors of violence and contributes to thought leadership on how to eradicate gender-based violence. In its over 40 years of existence Embrave has grown and evolved, expanding their services to support an increasingly diverse population that is dealing with complex issues caused by all forms of violence. They strive to ensure that no one is left behind.

Where else are Solelniks involved? A big thank you goes to all of those individuals who are involved with the various boards and programs at Pathway. Board members include Shirley Evans, Michael Kulbak, John Lewsen and Larry Plener. Each of them involved in one of the three separate streams that offers low-income housing, manages properties that provide low-income housing and hosts social programs (i.e. breakfast club) at these facilities.

I mentioned the Women of Solel cGaming work above. I also want to give a big shout out to the Solel Congregation cGaming team under the direction of Nelson Zelding. The funds this team raises help support the congregation by covering various approved costs. If you have time available and could handle a periodic two-hour shift at the Mississauga Rama Centre, please get in touch so that you can join this volunteer team.

Last, but not least, it’s important to remember that Chanukah will be here soon and that means that it’s almost time for David Gordon and team to head into the kitchen for the annual latke cooking marathon. Volunteers are always appreciated for the Sunday when the fry pans, potatoes, onions, oil and seasonings come out, and everyone is chopping and mixing and frying. No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome. Please reach out to the office if you’d like David to have your name so you can join in on this fun day.

There are many more individuals and committees that help make Solel run (you would have seen the recent list that Leo van Thyn shared about all the people who make High Holiday services a reality). Know that you are all seen and appreciated. For anyone who would want to get involved, please reach out to me, the office, the Rabbi or Arliene and we will work to match you up with the most appropriate volunteer opportunity.

Thank you, one and all.

Filed under: President's Message

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