Recognizing client success, and the contributions of volunteers and employers, has been a staple each year at JVS Toronto’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). On September 13, the JVS 2017 Toronto AGM Awards were presented to five very deserving recipients.

“Our award winners all have one thing in common,” said Jeff Goldfarb, Board of Directors Chair when introducing the 2017 awards presentation, “they put their trust into JVS Toronto. Whether a client or employer committed to using our services, or a volunteer willing to contribute their time, I thank each of you for instilling your trust in us.”

Congratulations to our 2017 AGM Award winners.

L to R: Winner Talar Karageozian with Bill Skolnik, son of Betty and Bill Skolnik — L to R: Winner Talar Karageozian with Bill Skolnik, son of Betty and Joseph Skolnik

Talar Karageozian – Joseph Skolnik Award for New Canadians

This award is given to a JVS Toronto newcomer client who has successfully integrated into Canadian society.

Talar arrived to Canada with her family as a refugee after fleeing the horrors of Aleppo, Syria. An accountant in Syria, Talar thought her work experience would easily help her get a job. Not gaining any interviews, Talar’s optimism soon wore off. By accessing specialized newcomer employment programs at JVS Toronto, Talar improved her English, and learned Canadian and financial services terminology. After attending various workshops, Talar was able to optimize her job search to accounting firms. She secured a full-time financial services position and is now pursuing her professional designation in accounting.

Tal Itzhak – Betty Skolnik Award for Emerging Professionals

L to R: Bill Skolnik, son of Betty and Bill Skolnik with winner Tal Itzhak

This award is given to a young professional new to their career with a promising future in their chosen field.

At 29, Tal, who is deaf, couldn’t continue working as a baker due to an injury. He applied to numerous administrative jobs in financial services. Without previous experience, Tal wasn’t called for any interviews leaving him feeling taxed on every level. Participating in the Jewish Family & Child / JVS Toronto Join Employment Program, Tal’s support team ensured interpreting resources and transportation were in place for improved communication for his job search, and travel to accounting courses. After learning current job search practices and gaining education financial services, Tal secured a Junior Accounting Clerk position with a financial services firm, with an on-the-job training subsidy provided to his employer.

L to R: David Berger, Berger family representative, with winner Ryan Melham — L to R: David Berger, Berger family representative, with winner Ryan Melha

Ryan Melham – Berger Family Inspirational Award

This award recognizes the achievements, personal perseverance, and contribution a JVS Toronto client with a disability has made to the community.

Ryan struggled to find a job that fit his unique skills and abilities through other employment programs. With physical limitations and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Ryan accessed JVS Toronto’s ASD Job Readiness Project. Building an understanding his abilities best suited to the job market, Ryan’s openness to a variety of jobs let him to a company specializing in product demonstrations. Hired as a brand experience ambassador, Ryan became a team lead after six months. Ryan’s passion and enthusiasm builds daily knowing his company truly values his unique capabilities.

L to R: Winner Linnea Chamberlain with Jeff Moukley, son of Eunice and David Mouckley

Chamberlain Architect Services – Eunice & David Mouckley Outstanding Employer Award

This award is presented to a JVS Toronto employer who has worked with us for more than one year and has provided special initiatives to clients with barriers to employment such as language, culture, disability, or lack of updated skills.

Located in Burlington, Chamberlain Architect Services Limited’s association with JVS Toronto’s began in January 2016 through the IPLAN program that bridges internationally trained architects to their Canadian career. Five IPLAN graduates have been hired adding to the large compliment of existing staff that were born outside of Canada.

Barbara Autgang – Manny Mitchell Award for Excellence in Volunteerism

L to R: Winner Barbara Autgang with Paul Habert, son-in-law of Manny Mitchell

This award recognizes a dedicated volunteer who has demonstrated consistent commitment, dedication and reliability to both staff and clients.

During her time volunteering at JVS Toronto’s Employment Source downtown, Barbara created job search tools to assist Employment Counsellors, such as occupation-specific interview questions and competency modules, and conducting other employment-based research. She supported team members by helping clients in the resource area ensuring that they moved forward in their job search. An excellent volunteer ambassador for JVS Toronto, Barbara’s willingness to take on assignments and her ease and kindness with clients is commendable.