Many, many thanks to everyone who participated in the Holiday Drive.
It was a very successful day. Between monetary donations online from our members and donations collected on Saturday, we raised $3,500 for local food banks, shelters, drop-ins and Out of the Cold. Items including sweatshirts, toys, socks, toiletries and food will be distributed this week.
Particular thanks goes to those hardy individuals (members and friends) who stood out in the bitter cold soliciting donations - Jeff Harrison, Dawn Smith, Virginia O'Reilly, Jane Wadden, Pauline Fortier, Jeff Rayman, Leslie Savlov, Benito Del Monte Medina and Alan Munn. A special thank you to East End United which provided us with a space for our TERC tent, tables and access to a place to warm ourselves (particularly our feet)!
We held our traditional Remembrance service on Thursday, November 7th. We honoured veteran Morris Adams who came to our meeting with Katherine Baldwin (Manager of Recreation and Creative Arts Therapies, Sunnybrook Hospital). On behalf of the Club, President Mike Phelan presented Morris with a cheque to be used by the veterans association at Sunnybrook.
Toronto East Rotary was recently awarded a certificate of appreciation in the battle against polio. For many years, our Club has supported Rotary International's effort to rid the world this horrible disease.
Toronto East member Brian Smith (former WoodGreen president and CEO) presents a cheque to Adriano Murarotto (Director, Seniors Programs at WoodGreen) on behalf of Toronto East Rotary Club (TERC). TERC has been a longtime supporter of their Meals On Wheels program.
The three daughters of TERC member Joe Runza (seen right, Jennifer, Meghan & Christina) present a cheque for $20,000 to Clare Olmstead (VP MGH Foundation) and Rachel Whitty (Program Director – Oncology Dept) of the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation. Led by the tremendous efforts of Joe, our club has been responsible in fundraising tens of thousands of dollars for cancer care at the hospital over the past several years. Below, you'll find a special message from MGH doctors:
Michael Garron Hospital Receives $20,000 From TERC
Toronto East Rotary Club's December Skate-A-Thon raised $20,000! Over the course of 6 years, we have raised over $85,000. During the past 5 years we have donated $57,500 of these proceeds to the Michael Garron Hospital Oncology Clinic for patient support.
This year’s proceeds to be split to benefit both the Michael Garron Hospital Oncology Clinic patient support fund and the Toronto East Rotary Club Foundation.
Thank you to our sponsors:
... and our many donors and participants.
A special thank you to Joe Runza who founded this event and continues to organize it.
Our January ”Skate-a-thon to Ice Cancer” fundraiser gets a boost with a generous contribution. Thank you Lexus On the Park for supporting this very important fundraiser! We are very grateful!
Toronto East Rotary Club’s January Skate-a-thon raised $15,000 which will benefit the Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) patient support fund and the Toronto East Rotary Club Foundation. The funds contributed to our foundation will be used to support vital community projects.
Over the course of 5 years, our Skate-a-thon has raised over $65,000. During the past 4 years, we have donated $50,000 of these proceeds to the MGH for oncology patient support and they will receive a share of this year’s Skate-a-thon proceeds as well.
Club member Joe Runza originated the Skate-a-thon and was joined this year by his hockey teammate and friend John Bradley and fellow TERC member Pauline Fortier.
Thank you to all our event sponsors and donors who have contributed to this most important community endeavor!
In Honour of International Women’s Day which is on March 8th Meet our Club President Shaheynoor Talukder
Rotary has come along since it was founded in 1905 as an all-male organization and didn't start admitting female members well into the 80s. Today things have changed significantly in Rotary with women holding many leadership positions. Our own Club is no exception and we have had several Women Presidents including our incumbent, Shaheynoor Talkuder.
Club member Tara Webster interviewed Shaheynoor and we hear in her own words why she joined Rotary, her thoughts about the most important message about International Women's day that she would like to share with young women, how as a leader she inspires people and who she most admires. READ MORE ...
International Women’s Day – Interview with our Club President Shaheynoor Talukder
This event was started by Joe Runza in 2017, and to date has raised over $50,000 for the Oncology Department at Michael Garron Hospital in Toronto. The money goes to help support the patients and the exceptional team in the Cancer Care ward.
This year's skate-a-thon raised $ 22,230 and the cheque was presented on October 28th to the Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) at our Club's social gathering in the Beaches.
Pictured left to right are Jim Anastasiadis, Rachel Issac (Social worker, Oncology MGH), Joe Runza, Clare Olmstead (VP Major Gifts & Planned Giving MGH Foundation) Shaheynoor Talukder (our Club President), and Lindsay Martinek ( Director Oncology Services MGH)
We are proud to report that our 22nd Annual Golf Tournament raised over $10,000 that will help us to continue funding vital local community organizations and some important projects in the developing world.
Thank you to all our golfers, sponsors, and donors.
We congratulate all our Golf Tournament winners! Click the "Read more...." button to see them all.
Wildlife Rehabilitation presentation now playing on our Youtube channel. On August 19th Dr Sherri Cox, Medical Director, National Wildlife Centre Canada gave this interesting presentation to our Rotary club which we have recorded for your viewing interest.
On November 14th & 15th, 2020 in the middle of a pandemic, 24 members and friends of the Toronto East Rotary Club undertook a Cross-Toronto Trek from Scarborough to Etobicoke and raised $ 10,000 for the Rotary International’s End-Polio-Now Campaign and for their Foundation. Watch our Journey in this 1minute video produced by Nick Ryall. Thank you, Nick, Trek participants and sponsors!
Today we heard from Gina Iuliano Marrello, Superintendent of Student Success, Toronto Catholic District School Board who talked about her role in supporting teachers and students during the pandemic and about the development of the online learning curriculum and during the summer months the hard work developing; the hybrid combination of in-class and virtual learning program and the health and safety protocols to keep everybody safe. She discussed high teacher and administrative stress levels about being back in class and that 25% of elementary kids and 44% of high school students had stress as well. She also told us about a new 100% online school for 25,000 students they set up for those that elect to stay at home.
It was a great day for golf and over 100 people came out to our 21st Annual Golf Tournament ! Thank you golfers and sponsors for helping us raise funds to support our community.
Below is a letter sent to our "Toronto East Jokers" team who participated in the Rotary HIV/AIDS and Community Health Walk:
Dear Toronto East Jokers,
Thank you for your participation in the 2020 Rotary HIV/AIDS and Community Health Walk. We have surpassed many expectations, currently sitting at $23,000 raised. We had over 100 participants sign up on the website and over 300 individuals submit a donation. What an amazing achievement!
Another successful Friday morning delivery to Mustard Seed where volunteers are ready to pack the brown bag lunches for the lunch program. Thank you volunteers! Thank you Serano Bakery for preparing the sandwiches!
The impact of COVID-19 on small business has been devastating. On a strip of Danforth where small businesses had been thriving, this disruption is proving to be more than many can handle.
During the pandemic, businesses are not the only ones struggling. Homeless shelters, with a steady demand for space and need for food are also trying to feed their clients.
Toronto East Rotary Club (TERC) serves the East-end community, and has mobilized to respond to the crisis by creating a micro- economy, fueled by energetic members and fundraising dollars
TERC is partnering with local Danforth restaurant The Ellery in a creative two- pronged plan: pay the restaurant to prepare delicious individual meals for the Red Door and WoodGreen every week.
During COVID-19 our senior clients in our First Steps to Home program are more vulnerable than ever. Food insecurity has become an even greater challenge. These donated meals help WoodGreen take good care of our clients by ensuring their health and safety during this difficult time” said Teresa Vasilopoulos, Executive Director, The WoodGreen Foundation.
TERC is actively looking for other opportunities to partner with local merchants to help feed the hungry, while infusing the local economy with much-needed cash. The program is also giving everyone involved a much-needed sense that we can all make a real difference to the lives of those in the community during this difficult time.
“One of TERC’s primary objectives is to help build a vibrant community so fighting the impact of the pandemic by channelling all our efforts to help our local community was an obvious move”, says TERC Past President, Marion Chan.
Together we can help make it happen. For the past 55 years has consistently raised between $55,000 and $100,000 every year to support local community and international organizations.
Contact: Marion Chan – 416-737-3567 – marionchan@trendspotter.ca
Toronto East Rotary Club is helping feed the homeless in Toronto’s east end by providing weekly lunch hour sandwiches over a 9 week period starting today. Please help us continue feeding the hungry and supporting many other worthwhile projects in our community by making an online donation today.
Toronto East Rotary Club (TERC) is partnering with local Danforth restaurant The Ellery in a creative two-pronged plan: pay the restaurant to prepare delicious individual meals for the Red Door and WoodGreen every week. The Ellery prepares the meals, and members of TERC pick up and distribute them straight from the kitchen to the Red Door and WoodGreen. This joint program is feeding over 60 people including men, women and children every Thursday.
Despite the pandemic, Toronto East Rotary is still meeting -- on Zoom of course! Last Thursday (May 7th), Amanda Maragos talked about changes at Philip-Aziz Emily’s House and their support of Michael Garron Hospital during the COVID-19 crisis. Over 20 Rotarians and friends listened to her speak. Thank you Amanda!
Toronto (March 31, 2020) – The kids are at home from school and so many parents are struggling to keep them entertained. Under normal circumstances, parents enjoying spending time with their kids on weekends, planning family outings, projects and gatherings that make the weekends whiz by. During this pandemic, parents are working from home and already stressed about the situation, trying to keep their kids busy all day, every day is a daily challenge.
The Toronto East Rotary club is trying to provide a helping hand with both an educational and entertaining interactive literacy program. The Free Reading Program (FRP) is an effective online literacy program for early readers and English Language Learners around the world. The FRP provides a robust Kindergarten to grade 6 level Reading program and includes over 3,600 interactive reading, spelling and grammar lessons. Children use a computer or tablet, that they are already so comfortable using, to learn in a fun way. It becomes like a game! The parents are able to track their progress and see areas where they excel and where they need more work. Parents report that it has even helped children with autism and dyslexia.
For a number of years, Toronto East Rotary has been a proud sponsor of the Free Reading Program (FRP) FreeReadingProgram.com. It's available at no charge to anyone with an internet connection and a computer or tablet. They are encouraging all parents to log on and help their kids learn in a fun and interactive way.
Last week, TERC members plus family and friends helped sort food at the Daily Bread Food Bank. Over 2,500 pounds (1,130 kg) of food was sorted. A new record for our group!
April Burrows, Country Director of The Hunger Project Canada, talks about her group's unique and grassroots approach to improving the lives of people in Africa and South Asia.
Jennifer Volk [left], Board Chair of Riverdale Share Concert accepts a cheque from TERC Past Present Karen Somerville [centre] and President Marion Chan [right].
Toronto East Rotarian Brian Smith [left] presents a cheque to WoodGreen's Michelle Kerr [centre] Vice President, Development and Kerri Nichols [right] Manager, Annual Programs. Our Club helps out by supporting the Woodgreen Christmas Meals on Wheels Program.
Photo: Toronto East Rotarian Benito Del Monte Medina (centre) is flanked by Skate-a-thon organizers and fellow members Jim Anastasiadas (left) and Joe Runza (right).
Three years ago Toronto East Rotarian Joe Runza came up with the idea that he would skate to raise money for institutions that recently had provided excellent care for friends and family dealing with cancer. Michael Garron Hospital was one of those great organizations. As a result of his efforts, he raised over $7k. Last year, Jim Anastasiadas (Toronto East President Elect) joined Joe in the rink and bumped that up to around $9k. This year they really amped their efforts. The Toronto East Rotary Club raised an incredible $20k with help from Jim who found an anonymous benefactor and Joe who brought in 50 sponsors. With a matching grant from the Moffat Family Foundation, the total amount raised came to $40k!
Past-District Governor Mary Lou Harrison (left) presents the Wilf Wilkinson (right) Peace Award to Jeff and Rita Rayman (centre) for The Guardian Project. Their project is a permaculture and conservation initiative facilitating sustainable independence. Learn more about it here.
TERC member Joe Runza (Centre) was at it again last weekend participating in a skate-a-thon at City Hall for Building Roots. Since 2013 Building Roots has led innovative projects to provide fresh food access with meaningful engagement that transforms communities. Joe is picture with Lisa Kates (left) and Darcy Higgins, both of Building Roots.
There was a lot going last week at Toronto East Rotary Club! We had a great guest speaker, a visiting Rotarian and two -- count 'em two -- cheque presentations.
Eleanor Fulcher was our guest speaker and talked to us about her career in business and about her autobiography Changing Looks, Changing Lives. Find out more about her on her website.
What a terrific day it was yesterday at our 10th, yes our 10th, Annual Arts and Crafts Sale. Who could ask for a better team - Toronto East Rotarians, family and friends working together to create a wonderful community event that raised funds to support Out of the Cold at Eastminster and a number of other projects in Toronto East. As always, the artisans were impressive. Many thanks to them and to everyone else who supported the Sale - our financial donors, our advertisers, our promoters, our bakers and chili makers, our graphic designer, our face painter, our musicians and our attendees. The Toronto East Rotary team demonstrated the power of working together. Thank you to all.
For pictures of the event please see the album here.
Thanks to the Toronto East Rotary members and friends, who were able to make it out to the Daily Bread Food Bank yesterday. 1,855 pounds of food were sorted and 93 families were helped.
Thursday October 24 was declared World Polio Day in the City of Toronto. A morning flag raising ceremony was held at City Hall led by Jennifer Boyd, Chair of the District 7070 World Polio Day Committee. Several District Rotary clubs were in attendance, including Toronto East Rotary and Mayor John Tory made a declaration. Pictured: John Ryall (TERC) [right], Nick Ryall (President Toronto Twilight) [centre], Jennifer Boyd [right].
Thank you to the speakers (shown above) and the audience who attended last night's TERC Forum On Mental Health. As one audience member said, "This was extremely informative."
Mark Atanasoff is Executive Director of the Ontario Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Strategy (Oahas) Central Office. Last week, he spoke to us about Indigenous Canadians living with HIV/AIDS and HIV/AIDS education and training to Indigenous organizations.
Thanks to the many golfer and sponsors, TERC held another successful tournament this year. We raised over $12,000 for charities local and worldwide! A special shout out to Jim Cremidas and team who organized the event. A great time was had by all. For more pictures, view the photo album here.
An excellent day last Saturday at Kick the Stigma. Thanks to Al Munn, Joe Runza, Virginia O'Reilly, Hugh Stuart and Karen Somerville for participating at our table, underneath our beautiful TERC tent. We engaged lots of families and children - passed out lots of information about TERC. The children were encouraged to do a drawing in return for a treat and you can see from the attached collage of some of the drawings that there were lots of young artists in attendance. We also sold some draw tickets for the Leafs' tickets kindly donated by Joe. The winner was an L. Smith from the community.
Last week at Rotary, TERC member Leslie Savlov presented an engaging and informative classification talk entitled, Life, Love and Graphic Design. Thank you Leslie!
Last week, Gina Iuliano Marrello spoke to us about Financial Literacy in the Ontario Classrooms. Gina is Superintendent of Student Success at the Toronto Catholic District School Board.
Joe Runza (far left) and Jim Anastasiadis (far right) of TERC present a cheque for over $4,000 to the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation. Joe and Jim raised funds for the hospital by organizing and participating in a skate-a-thon. Kudos to Joe and Jim!
TERC member Shaheynoor Talukdera (right) presents a cheque to Joanne Green (left) of Opportunities for Advancement for the purchase of boxing equipment.
Thanks to TERC members and friends for participating in the Daily Bread Food Bank food sorting. In the photo attached, everyone is taking a break from sorting bushels of zucchinis, cucumbers, leeks and green beans, all donated courtesy of some of our generous farmers. A very productive afternoon!
Amy Schindler told us about her organization, Scientists in School. They are determined to make a difference for the next generation by engaging them in real-world experiences that spark curiosity and nurture their inquisitive young minds. Not only do they help them to discover the fascinating and fun side of science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and the environment, but they help students to develop the 21st century global competencies that they will need to succeed not only in the careers of tomorrow, but in the world of tomorrow. Thank you, Amy.
Toronto East Rotary would like to thank the thousands of people who attended our Blues Festival on Saturday! All proceeds from the event will be donated to charities in our community. To see some pictures from the event, please click here.
Last Thursday, Toronto East Rotary Club presented Paul Harris Fellow awards to seven worthy recipients. Each has shown an outstanding level of community service and, in the spirit of Rotary, "Service Above Self". Pictured below are Tiffany Boxx accepting for Rod Cohen (Blake Boultbee Outreach Youth Services), Kerry Bowser (Eastview Neighbourhood Community Centre), Susan Baker (Riverdale Share Community Association), Clarisse Tatro (Glen Rhodes Food Bank), Alicia Dellagrazie (Bethany Baptist Food Bank), Gloria McPherson (Eastminster Out of the Cold Program), Joanne Green (Opportunity for Advancement). More pictures from the event can be found here.
Last week our speaker was Lindsay Oughtred, Executive Director of Kids Up Front. Kids Up Front provides youth services/experiences for social service organizations and healthcare organizations throughout Toronto. They distribute tickets to arts, culture and sporting events to deserving kids and their families through its many programs such as “Can’t Use Your Ticket”, “Give A Kid A Game”, “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” as well as Access/Pass Programs at the AGO, ROM and Ontario Science Centre. Thank you Lindsay for telling us about your group!
Recently, Marvin Prashad told us his inspiring story. As a teen he fled the United States in search of a way out of poverty with criminal elements trying to pull him down. Marvin told us of his journey from abuse and poverty to successful business owner and through strength, determination and iron will, he built a life for himself in Toronto against all odds. Today Marvin is husband, father and the owner, operator and head instructor at Dragonz Martial Arts Studio and an active member of the East Toronto Community. Thank you for sharing!
From Abuse And Poverty To Successful Business Owner
TERC member Steve Mastoras (right) presents a cheque to Chantal Desloges (right) of Homes First. The Homes First Foundation contributes to the development and provision of affordable, stable housing and support services to break the cycle of homelessness for people with the fewest housing options.
Dave McLennan, President and CEO of Boots On The Ground (right) receives a cheque from Toronto East Rotary Club member Mike Lawlor. The mission of Boots On The Ground is to provide confidential, caring and compassionate Peer Support to First Responders across the Province of Ontario. Toronto East Rotary Club is proud to provide support to this great group.
Toronto East Rotary Club member John Ryall (centre) thanks Mark Fellion (left) and Jenny Foster (right) from Egale Canada Human Rights Trust. Egale’s vision is a Canada, and ultimately a world, without homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and all other forms of oppression so that every person can achieve their full potential, free from hatred and bias. Egale’s mission is to work to improve the lives of LGBTQI2S people in Canada and to enhance the global response to LGBTQI2S issues. Egale will achieve this by informing public policy, inspiring cultural change, and promoting human rights and inclusion through research, education and community engagement. It was an honour to have them speak to us today and tell us about the work they do.
Toronto East Rotary Club member, Jim Cremidas (left) presents a cheque to Katie Mosher (right), Partnership & Sustainability Advisor at Interval House. Interval House Interval is Canada’s first shelter for abused women. Toronto East Rotary Club is happy to lend assistance this great organization doing work in our community.
Help make a difference. Please join us today as we continue to help the people affected by HIV/AIDS. Proceeds will fund international and local initiatives by participating Rotary Clubs and NGO's to win the war on HIV/AIDS through education, prevention, treatment, support for orphans, surviving guardians and people living with AIDS. In addition, communities stricken by HIV/AIDS will be assisted in overcoming shortages of drinking water, food, or shelter – essential for recovery and a sustainable future. Click here for more information.
Kirsten Cooney of the Red Door came to visit us last Thursday and give us an update on what happening at the shelter. Below, TERC President Karen Somerville (left) is shown presenting a gift of infant wear to Kirsten.
TERC is proud to announce three new members have joined our club. Congratulations to new member Josh standing with President Karen Somerville and new members Leslie and Benito. Welcome!
Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director of DAREarts Foundation, talks about her organization and how they ignite young leaders through arts-based education programs. They support children and youth ages 9-16 in under served communities to overcome barriers associated with poverty, bullying, mental health issues, and violence. Thank you for coming to TERC, Jennifer!
Out of the Cold's Gloria McPherson [left] accepts a cheque from TERC President Karen Somerville [right]. Based out of Eastminster United Church, the Out of the Cold program offers shelter, a nourishing meal, access to a nurse, hot showers and toiletries to those in need.
Ron Denham talked to our club today about the Water & Sanitation Rotarian Action Group (WASRAG). He was the founding chair of the WASRAG, A group of over 1800 Rotarians helping people in the developing world improve life and livelihood through the provision of safe water and sanitation. In that capacity he has fostered many water and sanitation projects in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Ghana, and in many states in India. Ron [on the right] is bring thanked by TERC member Tom Andrews. Ron, thank you for taking time to speak to TERC!
Last week at Toronto East Rotary Club (TERC), Helen Knelsen of Lakeridge Health Foundation accepted a cheque from TERC members Joe Runza and Jim Anastasiadis. Joe and Jim held a successful skate-a-thon to raise funds to fight cancer for Lakeridge and Michael Garron Hospital.
Friday night saw a record 80+ people attend the latest TERC Euchre Party. It was a fun evening with drinks and great food provided by The Ellery. Thank you to all who came! Proceeds go towards our service work in our community.
Last Thursday, international documentary photographer, Juris Kornets, presented us with some of his latest work. Juris was commissioned by a child-centred international development organization, to photograph children and document the issues they face living in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Paraguay and Nicaragua. He told us of his travels and the stories of the people he met.
TERC member Aaron Harnett [right] thanks Lindsay Kretschmer who came to our club last week to talk about aboriginal community well being. Thank you Lindsay!
TERC member Shaheynoor Talukdera [right] presents Joanne Green [left] with workout clothes for the women of the Shape Your Life (SYL) boxing program. SYL is a unique and free non-contact boxing program for self-identified women who have experienced violence. The program uses trauma and violence-informed approach to provide a safe space for participants to foster respect and empowerment through boxing lessons. For more information, please check out the SYL’s website.
Last month, dozens of Rotarians and friends had a fun filled evening at TERC's Robbie Burns Supper in support of the Rotary Foundation and the End Polio Now campaign. Thank you to all those who supported our cause! To see more photos, go here.
Our thanks to Dave McLennan, a retired police officer and founder of Boots On The Ground, a non-profit, volunteer organization providing safe and confidential peer support to First Responders – Police Officers, Firefighters, EMS and Corrections Officers - impacted by the exposure to trauma in their positions.
Last Thursday, Dave spoke about the development and implementation of the Boots On The Ground program. He outlined the services presently being offered and their vision for the future of this organization. This dedicated team will soon be providing confidential Peer Support 24/7 to First Responders across the Province. Full details of the organization can be found on their website -- www.bootsontheground.ca.
Last week, Joanne Green spoke to our club about the Shape Your Life (SYL) Boxing program. SYL is a unique and free non-contact boxing program for self-identified women who have experienced violence. The program uses trauma and violence-informed approach to provide a safe space for participants to foster respect and empowerment through boxing lessons. Thank you Joanne. For more information, please check out the SYL’s website.
Norm Grey-Noble presents a TERC cheque to David Mitchell, President of Schools for the Children of the World Canada (SCWCanada). SCWCanada is a non-profit charitable organization run by Canadian volunteers. They raise funds in Canada for the design and construction of schools for children in Central and South America.
Past Presidents Jim Anastasiadis and Joe Runza celebrate the completion of their recent Skate-A-Thon. Jim and Joe raised almost $10,000 for Michael Garron Hospital and Lakeridge Health in the second annual event to "ice cancer". Thank you Jim and Joe! [See all the photos here.]
Past President Jim Anastasiadis presents Woodgreen's Steve Vanderherberg with a cheque in support of their Meal On Wheels program. TERC has supported Woodgreen for almost 20 years!
Rod Cohen (right) of Blake Boultbee Youth Outreach Service (BBYOS) accepts a cheque from TERC Past President Joe Runza. (BBYOS) was established in 1989 to work with high-risk youth and their families in Blake-Boultbee, a Toronto Community Housing neighbourhood.
TERC Supports Blake Boultbee Youth Outreach Service
TERC member Joe Runza presents a cheque to Rauni Salminen, Founding Member and CEO of Emily's House. Emily's House is Toronto's only hospice for children and families facing life-threatening illnesses. Toronto East Rotary Club is proud to be a supporter.
On December 6th, TERC members Joe Runza and Jim Anastasiadis will skate 100 continuous laps around East York Memorial Area to "Ice Cancer"! Donations made to this event support Michael Garron Hospital and Lakeridge Health. Download the form to make a donation or use the Donate button on our website. [If using the PayPal Donate button please specify "Skate-A-Thon" in "Special Instructions".] The skate starts at 9:00am and you're welcome to come out and cheer them on!
On November 15th, Toronto East Rotary Club held it's own Remembrance Day luncheon. Past President Jim Anastasiadis thanks our speaker Lt Col Paul Brunberg. In the second photo, Richard Radcliffe, President, Sunnybrook Veterans Council (second from the right) and Katharine Baldwin, Manager, Sunnybrook Veterans Centre (second from the left) received a donation from our club.
Last week, we had the pleasure of having Elizabeth Witmer as our guest speaker. A former member of the Ontario Provincial Parliament, Elizabeth now heads the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board. TERC President Karen Somerville (left) is shown thanking Elizabeth.
Jim Anastasiadis thanks Ray Scheepstra of Mercy Ships for his presentation last Thursday at TERC. Mercy Ships operates the world's largest charity hospital ship-providing free life-changing surgeries and training in Africa. Staffed by a volunteer crew, every dollar received is leveraged by gifts-in-kind from corporations and volunteers so that it provides $3 of health for every$1 raised. To date, in 40 years, Mercy Ships has directly touched the lives of more than 2.6 million people providing $1.3 billion in free health care.Our speaker is from their Alumni, who share stories of life on-board and of the courage of the patients and the families served.Ray Scheepstra from Mercy Ships
Christopher Walker of Loft Community Services recently spoke to TERC at one of our luncheons. Seen here, he is being thanked by TERC member Marion Chan.
The Toronto East Rotary Club’s 9th Annual Arts and Crafts Sale has a wonderful group of Artisans. Some of the items to delight you include jewellery for men and women, quilts, pottery, hand painted glassware, wooden bowls, preserves, paintings, stained glass, paper and textile goods, coasters and cutting boards, craft blend teas, hand crafted bath bombs, photography, handbags and pouches, holiday decorations, shawls and capes, natural shaving oil, face and body products, beeswax candles and infused honeys. There will also be live music, delicious baked goodies and yummy chili, draws and free face painting. Join us on Nov. 17, 10 -5 @EUChurch (one block west of Chester subway). The Sale supports Out of the Cold as well as other community programs. Everyone is welcome. Free.
A heart felt welcome to Shaheynoor Talukder who recently became our newest TERC member. Shaheynoor is a lawyer and her firm is located in downtown Toronto. District Governor Mary Lou Harrison (left) presents Shaleynoor with her Rotary pin.
Recently we had the pleasure of a visit from Mary Lou Harrison. Mary Lou is the governor of Rotary District 7070 of which TERC is a part. She gave an inspiring and interesting speech about our area and what we can expect and hope to do this year. Thanks for the visit Mary Lou!
Thanks to the many golfer and sponsors, TERC held another successful tournament this year. We raised over $15,000 for charities local and worldwide! A special shout out to Jim Cremidas and team who organized the event. A great time was had by all.
At last week's TERC luncheon, we had the pleasure of having Phylicia Davis as our speaker. Phylicia is Instructor Coordinator, Frontier College – Literacy and Basic Skills, Scarborough. In the second photo, Phylicia is thanked by TERC member Guru Bablad.
Congratulations to Nick Pappas! Nick was the winner of 2 Toronto Maple Leaf tickets which were raffled off on September 22nd at Michael Garron Hospital's
Kick The Stigma event. Thank you to everyone that participated. It was a resounding success.
Victor Lal, a student at Western University, came and talked to us today (2017-1012) about his Ride for Syrian Refugees – see canadiansforsyria.org. He spent part of his summer raising $30,000 for a Syrian family which is presently residing in Jordan and expected to arrive in Canada later this year. Victor rode his bike from Toronto to St. John’s, Newfoundland, over 2,500 kilometres. He had some interesting stories to tell about his ride, including the generosity of people he met along the way. Last year, Toronto East Rotary Club supported a number of initiatives related to the Syrian refugee crisis and was pleased to support Victor in his fundraising efforts with a cheque for $1,000. Thanks to Victor for his demonstration of “Service above Self”.
The 18th annual Toronto East Rotary Club golf tournament was held on September 14th at Sleepy Hollow Golf & Country Club. This year’s tournament was very successful raising over $25,000! A big thank you goes out to all members who volunteered their time on golf day, all those that brought in sponsors or golfers and our great golf committee that did such great work to ensure a successful tournament.
On Sunday September 10th, hundreds of District 7070 Rotarians participated in the annual Rotary Foundation Walk including TERC rotarians Mike Phelan and Bill Dunk-Green. This year was special as it was the 100th since the creation of the Rotary Foundation. Over $100,000 was raised including $1,000+ from our local club. Congratulations to all who participated and helped out!
Malcolm Lamont [here being thanked by Rotarian Robert Payne] was our guest speaker at last week's luncheon. Malcolm has always been intrigued by wine, and after taking his first course in oenology fell in love with the wide world of wine study. That led him to complete a Sommelier Certification at Algonquin College, as well as the Certified Specialist of Wine credential with the Society of Wine Educators. Malcolm entertained and informed us about the world of wine. To find out more about his company visit IWEG.org.
TERC member Steve Mastoras thanks Pete Bombaci for his talk on the Generator Project. The goal of the project is "to make the world a happier and healthier place by reminding people about the importance of face to face social connection and inspiring them to take action". Get more information at the GeneratorProject.org.
Tomorrow (August 31st) we are thrilled to have Pete Bombaci of The Generator Project as our guest speaker.
Pete is a passionate, grassroots brand builder who both develops business strategy and then translates that strategy into 360° multi-channel activation. He has a passion for building great culture and leading cohesive teams focused on a well laid out vision. His background includes senior level leadership roles across a broad experience base which has taken him from sales to marketing to CEO type roles, from for-profit to not-for-profit and from working for major corporations to having launched his own independent consulting business and a passion initiative, The Generator Project.
At our lunch meeting on August 18th, Jim Parker of Bethany Baptist Church accepts a cheque from TERC for the East York Strategy’s after school programs and the 6 weeks of summer camp for youth of the neighbourhood.
Ever wonder what Rotary is all about? The members of Toronto East Rotary club are an enthusiastic group of people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back. Want to know more?
Join us this Thursday August 10th for a casual BBQ on the patio of Whistlers Restaurant. Friendly Toronto East Rotarians will welcome you and tell you more about our service club.
Where: Whistlers Restaurant, 995 Broadview Ave (@ Mortimer), East York, ON M4K 2S1
The Trustees of The Rotary Foundation recently confirmed the award of two District 7070 Global Grant Scholarships for the 2017-2018 academic year.
One of the recipients is Spencer McMurray, sponsored by the Toronto East Rotary Club and a graduate of University of Toronto where he received his Honours Bachelor of Arts in Peace, Conflict, and Justice, minor in Political Science. Spencer will pursue a Masters of International Security, with a concentration in conflict resolution and a regional concentration on the Middle East, and the study of Arabic at the Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA) at Sciences Po, in Paris, France. His scholarship was awarded under Rotary Area of Focus Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution.
Spencer plans to continue his career in conflict negotiation, building on his experience as a writer and research assistant with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in East Jerusalem. He selected the PSIA program to prepare him to write holistic peace agreements to create sustainable solutions and policies, particularly in post-conflict societies, so that migrants can thrive and live to their full potential.
At a special dinner held at Whistler’s Grille on Thursday July 13, the Toronto East Rotary Club honoured two area students for their extensive volunteer work during their high school years. The $2000.00 TERC Community Service Scholarship Award was presented to Sal Sabila of Monarch Park CI (shown on the left) and Cathy Nabukalu of St. Patrick Catholic SS.
Sal pioneered efforts at her school for Gender Equality and Mental Wellness and founded the Youth Gravity team in Regent Park. She will be attending the University of Toronto to study Physical Science and Mathematics. Cathy, in addition to a long list of community service activities both in and out of school, was selected to take a leadership role in the Toronto Police Youth Community Program deployed to the Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club. She is enrolled at the University of Windsor to study Forensic Psychology and Criminology. Both students delivered inspiring speeches detailing their contributions and confirming their on-going commitment to volunteer community service.
Left to Right: Club President Jim Crimedas, Pastor Tim Reimer, Rev. Sarah Miller, Rabbi Mariam Margles, Rev. Jim Parker.
At our lunch on May 4th, 2017, we listened intently to the thoughts of four religious leaders in the Toronto East community and were left with a special thought from each.
The broad societal issues that were raised by the religious leaders and where, we as a Club, can continue to contribute, are:
Poverty, housing for the marginalized, homelessness, hunger and food security, clean water, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, welcoming spaces for the transgender and LGBTQ community, safe havens for youth, mental health, individual isolation, refugee sponsorship and Indigenous rights.
On April 27th, Amanda Maragos, one of our newest members, presented her classification talk. Amanda is the Manager of Volunteer Services for the Philip Aziz Centre / Emily’s House. PAC/EH were created in 1995 to provide physical, spiritual and emotional support and respite services to individuals, adults and children, who have life-limiting conditions or chronic illnesses, who are often, though not always, in end-of-life situations.
Ve’ahavta is a Jewish charitable social service organization dedicated to promoting positive change in the lives of people of all faiths who are marginalized by poverty.
Amiel Blajchman, a member of the Board of Directors, and Debbie Estrin, Director of Development, spoke about Ve'ahavta’s programs to alleviate homelessness and urban poverty, educational activities around issues of social justice, and the inclusion of hundreds of members of the community in Ve’ahavta’s transformational work.
The Toronto East Rotary is proud to induct the newest members to our club. Dedicated Rotarian John Ryall presents our new members Zia Choudhary, Amanda Maragos, and Bill Dunk-Green with their plaques.
Joe Clarke of from the Toronto Eglinton Club presented the WASH program for Schools in Bugiri Uganda. The objectives are: to provide practical facilities and education for the supply of clean water for drinking, latrine maintenance, hand washing, and menstrual hygiene management.
Justin Van Dette gave a presentation on the East York Hall of Fame starting with some history of East York as a borough. East York has one of the highest rates of volunteerism per capita. The East York Hall of Fame was formed after Justin attended the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame and started thinking about the number of former East Yorkers who are deserving of recognition.
Toronto East Rotary Club's Jeff Rayman speaks to our club about some of the atrocities in Guatemala by a Canadian mining company and how court proceedings have developed. This case has set a human rights precedent in being the first time a Canadian company has been tried in their domestic jurisdiction for corporate liability internationally. Jeff hopes to provide assistance for witnesses as they attempt to travel into Canada to provide their deposition.
The Toronto East Rotary Club was fortunate to hear Dr. Raffy Chouljian & Jennifer Boyd speak about their trek up Kilimanjaro and how they were able to raise over $500,000 to help conquer Polio. We thank and appreciate all the work they have done as Rotarians to help further our efforts to end polio.
Since July of 2015, this unusual music education project has given young people in mixed-income Toronto communities hands-on access to synthesis, beat programming and sampling. In February of 2016, in cooperation with the Toronto Kiwanis Boys and Girls Clubs, young Blackball participants performed live and un-automated before their peers and family members. To date, some 70 youth and children have taken part in the Blackball project. And there are more sites, more clients and more awe-inspiring electronic sounds yet to come.
As the first centre for abused women and children in Canada, they are leaders in the campaign for women’s empowerment, providing innovative, specialized services that help abused women and their children transform their lives and break the cycle of violence.
President Jim Cremidas (Toronto East Rotary), Katie Mosher (Interval House), Jim Anastasiadis (Toronto East Rotary)
Sunnybrook is the largest veterans' care facility in Canada. Working in close partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada, they offer long term to 475 veterans from the Second World War and Korean War. The funds will be used by the veteran's council as the deem appropriate.
Back row: Lt. Col Paul Brunberg, Todd Ross,
Front Row: Eric Mullaney, Jack Embrey, Jim Cremidas
Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office is a multicultural, multi-service agency providing a wide range of community services. Toronto East Rotary Club is assisting with their baby program, providing diapers and formula for families in need.
President Jim Cremidas (Toronto East Rotary), William Pashby (Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office), Steve Mastoras (Toronto East Rotary)
On November 11 we have the opportunity to remember the efforts of the many Canadians who fought for our great country. In remembering, we pay homage to those who responded to their country's needs, those who came back, and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Snap community newspaper covered the Toronto East Rotary Club's 1st Annual Arts and Craft Sale. It was a huge success, follow the link to Snap's coverage of the event
Are you coming to speak to the Toronto East Rotary Club members and guests? Follow the link to get some background information to get the most out of your presentation.
The dedicated members of the Toronto East Rotary Club are representative of our diverse community, and everyone is committed to helping out in our community. Join our team of entrepreneurs and local business leaders linked by a common goal of wanting to make a difference in our community - and having fun along the way.
We are pleased to announce our Christmas fundraiser. We will be selling smoked hams, 100% pure maple syrup and Baumkuchen cake which you can give to your friends and colleagues. For you as a business person, they make great gifts for clients, associates and employees.
Toronto East Rotary Club holding its 1st Arts and Crafts Show on November 6th, 2010, 10:00 – 5:00, at Eastminster United Church, at the corner of Jackman and Danforth Avenues in Toronto
Starting as the brainchild of one Rotarian with the support of his Rotary club in year 2000 – ShelterBox has grown to become the largest Rotary Club project in the 100 year history of the organisation
Microfinance is the provision of financial services to low-income clients, including consumers and the self-employed, who traditionally lack access to banking and related services.
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Last week our speaker was Lindsay Oughtred, Executive Director of Kids Up Front. Kids Up Front provides youth services/experiences for social service organizations and healthcare organizations throughout Toronto. They distribute tickets to arts, culture and sporting events to deserving kids and their families through its many programs such as “Can’t Use Your Ticket”, “Give A Kid A Game”, “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” as well as Access/Pass Programs at the AGO, ROM and Ontario Science Centre. Thank you Lindsay for telling us about your group!
Recently, Marvin Prashad told us his inspiring story. As a teen he fled the United States in search of a way out of poverty with criminal elements trying to pull him down. Marvin told us of his journey from abuse and poverty to successful business owner and through strength, determination and iron will, he built a life for himself in Toronto against all odds. Today Marvin is husband, father and the owner, operator and head instructor at Dragonz Martial Arts Studio and an active member of the East Toronto Community. Thank you for sharing!
TERC member Steve Mastoras (right) presents a cheque to Chantal Desloges (right) of 
TERC members and family participate in the recent Rotary AIDS Poker Walk.
Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director of DAREarts Foundation, talks about her organization and how they ignite young leaders through arts-based education programs. They support children and youth ages 9-16 in under served communities to overcome barriers associated with poverty, bullying, mental health issues, and violence. Thank you for coming to TERC, Jennifer!
Out of the Cold's Gloria McPherson [left] accepts a cheque from TERC President Karen Somerville [right]. Based out of Eastminster United Church, the Out of the Cold program offers shelter, a nourishing meal, access to a nurse, hot showers and toiletries to those in need.
Ron Denham talked to our club today about the Water & Sanitation Rotarian Action Group (WASRAG). He was the founding chair of the WASRAG, A group of over 1800 Rotarians helping people in the developing world improve life and livelihood through the provision of safe water and sanitation. In that capacity he has fostered many water and sanitation projects in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Ghana, and in many states in India. Ron [on the right] is bring thanked by TERC member Tom Andrews. Ron, thank you for taking time to speak to TERC!
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At last week's TERC luncheon, we had the pleasure of having Phylicia Davis as our speaker. Phylicia is Instructor Coordinator, Frontier College – Literacy and Basic Skills, Scarborough. In the second photo, Phylicia is thanked by TERC member Guru Bablad.
Victor Lal, a student at Western University, came and talked to us today (2017-1012) about his Ride for Syrian Refugees – see 
The 18th annual Toronto East Rotary Club golf tournament was held on September 14th at Sleepy Hollow Golf & Country Club. This year’s tournament was very successful raising over $25,000! A big thank you goes out to all members who volunteered their time on golf day, all those that brought in sponsors or golfers and our great golf committee that did such great work to ensure a successful tournament. 
On Sunday September 10th, hundreds of District 7070 Rotarians participated in the annual Rotary Foundation Walk including TERC rotarians Mike Phelan and Bill Dunk-Green. This year was special as it was the 100th since the creation of the Rotary Foundation. Over $100,000 was raised including $1,000+ from our local club. Congratulations to all who participated and helped out!
Malcolm Lamont [here being thanked by Rotarian Robert Payne] was our guest speaker at last week's luncheon. Malcolm has always been intrigued by wine, and after taking his first course in oenology fell in love with the wide world of wine study. That led him to complete a Sommelier Certification at Algonquin College, as well as the Certified Specialist of Wine credential with the Society of Wine Educators. Malcolm entertained and informed us about the world of wine. To find out more about his company visit 
TERC member Steve Mastoras thanks Pete Bombaci for his talk on the Generator Project. The goal of the project is "to make the world a happier and healthier place by reminding people about the importance of face to face social connection and inspiring them to take action". Get more information at the 
Tomorrow (August 31st) we are thrilled to have Pete Bombaci of The Generator Project as our guest speaker.
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Ever wonder what Rotary is all about? The members of Toronto East Rotary club are an enthusiastic group of people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back. Want to know more? 
The Trustees of The Rotary Foundation recently confirmed the award of two District 7070 Global Grant Scholarships for the 2017-2018 academic year.
At a special dinner held at Whistler’s Grille on Thursday July 13, the Toronto East Rotary Club honoured two area students for their extensive volunteer work during their high school years. The $2000.00 TERC Community Service Scholarship Award was presented to Sal Sabila of Monarch Park CI (shown on the left) and Cathy Nabukalu of St. Patrick Catholic SS.
On April 27th, Amanda Maragos, one of our newest members, presented her classification talk. Amanda is the Manager of Volunteer Services for the Philip Aziz Centre / Emily’s House. PAC/EH were created in 1995 to provide physical, spiritual and emotional support and respite services to individuals, adults and children, who have life-limiting conditions or chronic illnesses, who are often, though not always, in end-of-life situations.
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Justin Van Dette gave a presentation on the East York Hall of Fame starting with some history of East York as a borough. East York has one of the highest rates of volunteerism per capita. The East York Hall of Fame was formed after Justin attended the Leaside Sports Hall of Fame and started thinking about the number of former East Yorkers who are deserving of recognition.
Toronto East Rotary Club's Jeff Rayman speaks to our club about some of the atrocities in Guatemala by a Canadian mining company and how court proceedings have developed. This case has set a human rights precedent in being the first time a Canadian company has been tried in their domestic jurisdiction for corporate liability internationally. Jeff hopes to provide assistance for witnesses as they attempt to travel into Canada to provide their deposition. .JPG)
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The Toronto East Rotary Club was fortunate to hear Dr. Raffy Chouljian & Jennifer Boyd speak about their trek up Kilimanjaro and how they were able to raise over $500,000 to help conquer Polio. We thank and appreciate all the work they have done as Rotarians to help further our efforts to end polio..JPG)
Since July of 2015, this unusual music education project has given young people in mixed-income Toronto communities hands-on access to synthesis, beat programming and sampling. In February of 2016, in cooperation with the Toronto Kiwanis Boys and Girls Clubs, young Blackball participants performed live and un-automated before their peers and family members. To date, some 70 youth and children have taken part in the Blackball project. And there are more sites, more clients and more awe-inspiring electronic sounds yet to come.
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