Tonight Ellen was joined by special guest host, Riley. Ellen began by setting the tone for the evening and asking Riley about what she had for breakfast. Ellen went on to say how most of us are so lucky to be able to open the refrigerator and grab a bite to eat at our leisure, while many are not.

More than ever, Canadians are using food banks and food services to help them. Many of us take this for granted, but not Neil Hetherington. Neil is the CEO of The Daily Bread Food Bank, one of Canada’s largest food banks supporting over 200 food programs and serving more than 200,000 client visits per month.  The Daily Bread Food Bank is a national leader in research that examines the causes and impacts of food insecurity.

Neil is not new to this job. He was the CEO of Habitat for Humanity for 16 years. Then went to Dixon Hall as their CEO. Neil’s late grandfather, General Arnold Brown, was the International Leader of the Salvation Army. This was Neil’s introduction into the world of helping others.

Neil was named one of Canada’s Top 40 under 40 along with receiving many distinguished Alumni of the year awards. He was even awarded Queen Elizabeth’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals. In 2018, he was awarded the Premier’s Award for Outstanding Ontario College graduates for excellence in business and named one of Toronto’s most influential people by Toronto Life Magazine.

Neil spoke about the growing problem of food insecurity in our city. While 1/10 Torontonians used the food bank last year, the year before it was just 1/20. He quoted Bryan Stevenson stating, “the opposite of poverty is not wealth, it’s justice”. He went on to explain how he sees every visit to the food bank as a policy failure. Neil stated the shocking fact that 59% of current users have had a post graduate education! He sees the current problem as a result of a few issues; lack of affordable housing being a big issue.  With the poverty line at $2300/month, many people find that they are too rich to qualify for benefits, yet still require income support. 

Neil offered a few solutions. We can make a difference by having this conversation and advocating for change. Short term solutions include food raisers and fundraisers, which give back to the community. But for long term solutions, Neil encouraged us to write to government officials. Let them know that they are failing on poverty reduction. Things need to change and if they don’t, these officials can be voted out. 

When donating food items, provide things you would want to enjoy. They must be non-perishable, and check expiry dates. Cash donations are used to purchase 67% of fresh food items that are required.

Riley sweetly shared how her family does their part by having a food library, taking part in food drives at school and routinely carrying bars of food to help the homeless. 

While they both shared with us how we can feed others, Halle Burnett fed our souls with her stunning voice and heart. Halle performed the song, ‘The Climb’, by Miley Cyrus. 

Lianne and Cassandra topped off the night with Kindness Corner and told us about an initiative that they have going on. The ‘Goodies Project’ is a program dedicated to promoting charities that fight hunger. With this project, schools work together to fight against food insecurities. Currently, Northern Secondary School is running a food drive from December 11-15. They are asking for food items to be donated, with all proceeds going directly to the Daily Bread Food Bank. 

As the season of giving begins, please consider helping the Daily Bread Food Bank feed so many.

Let’s be kind to one another. Let’s embrace one another and let’s learn from one another.

Ellen began by acknowledging what a very tough time it is for so many. 

When Project Give Back Connects came to be four years ago, the Pandemic began and the world seemed unpredictable and unsettled. It was a way to spread resources with experts on resilience, self care and offer tips to help with our mental well-being during a difficult time.

We are here once again, unsettled, confused, and feeling a huge sense of grief and loss. 

We live every day and always speak about life and living life to the fullest, the best we can. Yet,death is a huge part of life that we don’t typically speak about. 

Maybe it’s because we don’t know what to say. Maybe it’s because we don’t know what to believe. Maybe it’s because it is so uncomfortable and everyone experiences grief in different ways.

After Jacob died, Ellen’s family members each grieved in their own way, and they still do. But thanks to some very good friends, they were introduced to a grief counsellor who helped guide them through an extremely confusing and difficult time in their lives.

Lisa Robinson is a registered Social Worker, who helped Ellen’s family learn to ‘puddle jump’. Lisa has worked closely with children and families experiencing grief for 15 years. This has included working with pediatric oncology patients and their families at Campfire Circle, in private practice and within the haematology and oncology division at Sickkids Hospital. Throughout her years working in this field, Lisa’s greatest accomplishments and joy have been the relationships that she has shared with people during their most difficult times. 

And now is a challenging time for all. We have come out of a tumultuous time and we’re entering a world that is on fire with so much to process and grieve.

We were privileged to have Lisa share some tips on coping.  

Lisa said that, as a society, we don’t do grief well. We don’t want to deal with big feelings, and it is hard to see others hurting. 

Grief is so much more than death. We have anger, frustration, numbness or lack of feelings. Feelings we have when a change occurs in life.  Yet, there is still room for joy and connection in grief as well. 

How do we find that connection in making grief a collective experience? We are not alone in this. 

When there is a collective experience that causes grief, it can be confusing because each person grieves differently. Collective grief is when everyone is experiencing the same experience that causes grief. 

There is also cumulative grief, when we don’t lose the previous grief.  It can bring up grief from the past. 

Reality is, that grief is human and normal. When we normalize grief, it looks different for everyone.  We are not trying to fix it. Instead, we need to learn how to sit with it, to validate our feelings while feeling them. Don’t tell people how to grieve, and don’t minimalist it, but do let them know they don’t need to grieve alone.

As humans, all we want to do is love. So it was only fitting to have Lisa end with this quote, “Grief is just love with no place to go”. 

Another thing that Lisa mentioned was to create a common language.  Ellen and her daughter Bevvy did just that. Last year, Ellen and Bevvy decided to create a children’s book to help other families who might experience the same pain they did. 

As an educator, Ellen learned that 1 in every 5 students is grieving. There was a need for this type of book. After a year of writing and speaking to therapists, specialized doctors and professionals, they found the perfect illustrator, Lauie Stein, who worked with empathy, love and compassion. 

And with that, Ellen introduced her first children’s book. She and Bevvy read and shared, ‘The Puddle Jumper’. 

This book was created from their hearts to yours. If you would like a copy, either contact ellen@projectgiveback.com or you can purchase it from our kindness store on www.projectgiveback.com

If you are a teacher or support worker and you would like this for your clients or your classroom, please reach out and one will be sent to you. This special project is funded by the Kimel Family.

Each Project Give Back Connects Episode features young performers who lend their incredible talents. Tonight we had Abby and Sarah Ginsburg who zoomed in from Halifax, where they are both studying at Dalhousie University. They performed, ‘Call Your Mom’ , a song by Noah Kohan.  It’s about being there for your friends when they are going through tough times and it was so comforting and soothing for us all right now. 

We ended with Kindness Corner with Cassandra and Lianne. The girls spoke about grief and finding happiness in small moments, as there are always bursts of light. For there is happiness, even in the darkest times.  Laughter can be a powerful tool.

Cassandra spoke about her own experience about talking through grief, and suggested talking with someone you love. 

Ellen concluded by sending you so much love,  as we continue to jump from puddle to puddle.

We are so grateful for you. Thank you so much to all of you for joining Project Give Back Connects. 

Our message to you as always.

Let’s be kind to one another.

Let’s embrace one another.

Let’s learn from one another.

Please send this Episode to anyone who you feel might appreciate these messages and lessons. You can listen to any of our previous episodes anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Just click Project Give Back Connects. Also, please subscribe to our YouTube channel on Project Give Back Connects.

This Episode wraps up our third season. We dedicated this season to community legends; role models we look up to with the upmost respect. This final Episode features esteemed and extremely accomplished leaders. Every step they take makes an impact to all those watching with admiration. The lessons we will learn from them are invaluable and we are so lucky to have these leaders and role models. 

Our first guest was Jay Rosenzweig. Jay is a humanitarian, a philanthropist, a trained lawyer, and a leadership strategist. He is the founder of Rosenzweig & Company, and is an expert in designing, building and attracting world class teams.

Jay is passionate about global human rights’ causes and has been internationally recognized for the Annual Rosenzweig Report on equality.  He is the Chairman of the Board of the Irwin Cotler’s Raoul Wallenberg Centre For Human Rights. In addition, he sits on a number of other purpose-driven boards supporting causes ranging from healthcare, youth empowerment, refugee protection, and anti-gun violence. Rosenzweig is an outspoken advocate against all forms of hate and discrimination.  

Jay’s work has been featured in several publications, including Forbes, The New York Times, BNN and the Globe and Mail, just to name a few. He earned three degrees at McGill University. In addition, he completed the Harvard Law School Negotiation Program. Jay is also an avid songwriter and film producer.

Jay spoke about a few themes, one of them was the law of giving. He said, if you want joy, give joy. If you want love, give love.

Leading by example was another theme.  Jay was lucky to have had role models such as his parents and educators. He said to look at the world as half good, half evil. As one good deed can tip the scales and turn the world for good. The Talmud says, that if you save one life, it’s as if you save the universe, just like the acts of Raoul Wallenberg. He transformed our world and proved that every life is valuable and precious. 

Jay’s last piece of advice was with regards to success. Success is riding the waves, like with surfing, where waves will go up and down.  Enjoy the ride! We are all on our own path, so embrace the beauty of life and live to your own potential.  For that is what is true success and leadership.  

Michael Kalles is someone Ellen is so proud to know and love. Michael is the President of Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage. His vision and leadership are a large part of the continued success of his family company. One of Michael’s core values is giving back to the community. Michael and Harvey Kalles Real Estate support over 250 charitable organizations! Currently, Michael is a founding member with Baycrest @Home. He is the Co-Chair of the Holocaust Survivor’s Fund and, Board Member of AGPI and a Fundraiser with UJA Major Gifts. Michael attends every single Project Give Back Connects taping sessions as well as most of their weekly Jake’s Jam Concerts.

Michael’s advice was to be more like Ellen Schwartz, as she embodies true goodness.  

He also spoke about three key themes:

1. Take the word ‘just’ out of your vocabulary. The word is limiting, as in, “I’m just a stay-at-home mom”. For everything you do, you can bring meaning to.
2. Sometimes we wait to find our passion.  Pick something, become good at it, and you will become passionate about it.  Work hard and make a greater commitment and you will find your true passion. 
3. Pay the price, and with that, you have the opportunity for autonomy and independence. 

Up next was Lily Librach.  Lily is a regular at Sunday Jake’s Jam concerts, a Zoom concert for all ages and abilities. Lily  is a massive talent. She is a singer, actor, dancer, creator, and a professor of voice at NYU. She graduated from Sheridan College’s Musical Theatre undergraduate program. Lily was named a top 10 finalist of Mirvish’s worldwide Show Tune Idol Competition. She has also sung the national anthem for the Toronto Blue Jays three times! 

When it comes to leaders, Lily thinks of Ellen, Jacob and Marylou, a former teacher,  who sadly passed away. Marylou loved the Beatles, so in her honour, Lily performed the song, ‘Come Together’. 

This next guest, Dr. Jeremy Friedman, was one of the doctors who attended to Jacob, when he was just a year old and fighting for his life in the Intensive Care Unit at Sick Kids Hospital. After building a friendship with Jacob’s family, he then sat on the Board of Directors for Jacob’s Ladder for years and served as medical advisor to their family. 

Dr. Friedman has worked at SickKids Hospital since his training and is currently Associate Paediatrician-in-Chief and a Professor at the University of Toronto. His passions include looking after sick children and their families in hospital, teaching medical students and residents, and his volunteer work, as the medical advisor for Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Dr. Friedman spoke about his early life in South Africa, calling Nelson Mandela his hero and from whom he has learned many life lessons.  After 30 years in jail, Mandela persevered and became one of South Africa’s most esteemed presidents. Mandela said that education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.

For Friedman, his parents told him, if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life, for it won’t seem like work at all. So pick what you like to do.

Dr. Freidman also said that being  able to help is a privilege. If you have the opportunity to help, do so.  His own volunteer work as a medical advisor for Make-A-Wish Foundation has been rewarding. As a doctor, the best prescription he could ever write, is the granting of a wish.

The final lesson he shared is, to treat everyone with kindness and respect. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.  Don’t judge people by their appearance or status, for ultimately, people are often judged by the way they treat the most vulnerable. 

A final word came from Kindness Corner and Lindsay @One2GiveTo. With summer approaching, there is always some learning loss, so the simplest way to continue education is to expose kids to books.  Free libraries are all around the city. Try to place some extra books, for all ages, inside them. You can even request to have one placed on your own lawn!

Thank you to all these incredible leaders for sharing their sage wisdom, passion and advice. 

The evening began with an informal reception to meet our Team and a select few of our stellar students from this year, to learn about their unique projects. Formal presentations followed, where we heard from former alumni who have gone on to achieve remarkable accomplishments; writing books, and spreading our message of kindness, compassion and empathy beyond anything we ever imagined. They truly are Shining Stars in every respect of the word; Alissa Roy, Ariel Weinstein and Mason Drutz. The spark that was ignited in them during their PGB experience has blown into a full force of light and energy of their own. 

Our annual ‘Joey Award’, which is presented to alumni who have made an impact through their work, were Maya Kassam and Olivia Sherman.  Following their PGB experience, they started their own charitable initiative to help those in need, called, ‘Share Your Smiles’.

The ‘Robins Award’, which is bestowed upon a member of our Team, who goes above and beyond was rightfully given to Penny Goodman. Penny has been a volunteer and avid supporter of our program for many years. 

We heard from parents, sponsors, educators and colleagues, who all spoke about the magic that is created each week, through the PGB program and how it has sparked a ripple effect; a theme that was echoed much throughout the evening.

We also learned about new and exciting initiatives, as our program expands into the future, including the first peak at Ellen’s latest creation, her third book! This one, is a children’s story that deals which grief and was written in collaboration with Ellen’s daughter Bevvy Schwartz. It’s called, ‘Puddle Jumping’ and we can’t wait for its release.

It is a pure joy to celebrate PGB through this heartwarming event. It is a true reflection of all the hard work and effort that is put forth by our students, parents, teachers, and Team each year. And it could not be possible without the dedicated support of our incredible sponsors.  So, thank you, for making Project Give Back what it is and all it can, and will be, in the years to come. 

Meet the unstoppable Luke Anderson. Luke is a licensed professional engineer, a nature lover, an avid meditator, an aspiring harmonica virtuoso, and is the recipient of a Governor General’s Meritorious Service Medal. 

After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2002, Luke was all of a sudden introduced to a world that’s not well suited for a wheelchair user. This frustration led him to co-found the ‘StopGap Foundation,’ which raises awareness about the importance of a barrier free and inclusive society. StopGap works with different community leaders across Canada to help with the removal of barriers. Just look around and you will see their brightly painted ramps outside entrance ways that were not accessible before. 

Luke spoke about his love of playing sports and growing up in a small town. It was there, while he worked at a sporting goods store, that his passion for mountain biking began.  After graduating from university with an Engineering degree, Luke decided to live out his dream of riding his mountain bike out West, through trails in BC. 

It was during this biking trip, after attempting to jump a 25-foot gap, where Luke left his life, as he knew it.  He didn’t make the jump. His world was forever changed in that moment, as he was left with a spinal cord injury, which would impact Luke for the rest of his life. 

It took a while for Luke to learn how to adapt to a life of living with a disability.  In time, he knew that he wanted to put his engineering degree to work.  

So, he got a great job in downtown Toronto, but it turned out that the building that he worked in was not accessible! He had to continuously rely on others to access his very own workspace on a daily basis.  For 8 years there was this constant physical barrier to his independence and self-esteem. It contributed to his frustration in accessing free space, so he decided to do something about it. 

With the help of volunteers, Luke began to build brightly painted ramps, to fit these inaccessible spaces.  To date they have built over 2500 ramps, installed in over sixty-two communities! 

Luke continues to advocate for the right to equal access and to help others overcome big barriers. He feels that there are many barriers that prevent all people from accessing what they need, but it is often the spaces that we live in that are often the most disabling.  

 His Sister, Logan along with her students created a story book about Luke’s life and legacy. We strongly recommend reading, ‘The Ramp Man.’ Luke says on the back cover, “Welcome change in your life and recognize it as an opportunity to experience new things.”

Our next guest was Madison Tevlin.  Madison is an aspiring actress and a true ‘champion’ for people with Down syndrome. This spunky 21-year-old blows you away with her incredible charm, spirit and positive attitude. It’s no wonder Madison became a YouTube sensation at the young age of thirteen.  Since then, her Shining Star has been constantly on the rise.

After Madison’s videos became viral, she didn’t look back. As an influencer with thousands of followers, Madison is an advocate for people with Down syndrome. She was an Ambassador for the Special Olympics and then she was offered the opportunity to host her own TV show on CBC; an interview series called, Who Do You Think I Am?

Now, Madison stars as a leading role in the recently released movie ‘Champions’ with Woody Harrelson. If you haven’t seen it, please check it out.

Madison spoke about her love of singing, dancing and her active social life, describing herself as ‘sassy.’  She started taking singing lessons at the age of thirteen, when she recorded the video that went viral.

She gushed about her recent Hollywood movie experience and what she learned from this incredible opportunity.  Madison also recently got to host the red carpet at the Canadian Screen Show Awards, where she was nominated for best talk show host.  It was there, where she got to meet Ryan Reynolds!   

Her message is, that amazing things happen when we embrace inclusivity and we can certainly see how this has come to fruition for Madison herself.

In the future, Madison hopes to travel, and create her own movie.  She certainly has big plans and big dreams but will always be open to learning new things. She will continue to advocate for those who don’t always have opportunities. 

Today we surely had star power, but more importantly, true role models who continue to inspire.

CJ Capital is a Haitian Canadian artist who is making a name for himself across multiple entertainment mediums. As a vocal artist, he and his group CZN caught Simon Cowell’s attention winning 2020 Canada’s Got Talent. CJ and CZN went on to compete in Season 16 of America’s Got Talent. CJ is a storyteller. He tells his stories of passion, fear, love and search for freedom through his music. On screen CJ has been an actor in multiple productions including Sneakerella (Disney+), and Ginny & Georgia (Netflix), just to name a few.

CJ performed an original song that he wrote, called ‘Fade Away.’  Its message is to not give up on your dreams and follow them through.  Currently, CJ is working on a play that will be part of the Fringe Festival this summer, following his own advice to make dreams happen.

Thank you to all of our special guests today. 

Please share this episode with anyone who might benefit from learning from today’s powerful messages from our inspiring guests.

As always, be kind to one another, embrace one another and learn from one another.

Like most charities, they held fundraisers that were based on the power of giving. For years, they held an event called, ‘Jake’s Gigantic Give’. They reached out to people they knew in the toy world to help create a Pop-Up Store, just before the holidays. The key here, was that nothing in this store was for sale. 

They took a massive donated space and filled it with unbelievable toys. There was a free lounge with treats and entertainment; everything was donated. On entrance to this store, families were greeted by a teenage volunteer who took them around. The goal was to prepare, wrap and give a gift package to someone who might not normally receive a gift, during the holiday season.

As families left, there were seven charities there to receive these gifts on behalf of the children. Then, each child was allowed entrance back into the store to choose something just for themselves. So many of the young guests asked if they could donate that toy as well. 

The generosity of people was mind blowing. And this story leads to today’s first guest, Jon Levy, who was one of the masterminds behind all the toys that were donated to Jake’s Gigantic Give.  Not just toys, but two massive moving trucks, filled with all the hottest items. 

Speaking of mastermind, Jon and his brother, were the founders of ‘Mastermind Toys’, where he was the CEO and Chief Merchant for over 35 years. Today, Jon is the VP of Strategic Transactions and Head of Ventures (Toys) at Spin Master Ltd, where he finds and nurtures the brightest inventors in the world of play. 

Jon is also passionate about mental health causes for children and was a founding director of ‘Camp Kirk’, a summer camp that empowers neuro diverse children.

Jon shared his entrepreneurship journey, his views on leading a healthy life and what he calls ‘the ethos of giving’.  Jon came from a family of entrepreneurs, so it was only natural for him to be a part of that world.  As a youth, he shoveled driveways before leaving for school in the mornings. He quickly learned that in order to increase his margins, he needed to upgrade and get a snowblower, allowing him to clear more driveways in a day. Then, he got into skateboarding, so he set out to sell skateboards in his school yard. And so it began…..

Later, he and his brother started Mastermind as a business to sell computer games, with the intent to make education more fun for families.  Here, he learned to respect and honour all the relationships that he formed as an independent business owner. As the business grew, he wanted to help others and become good in other ways. “The practice of doing good”, as he called it. 

As his business expanded, Jon wanted to do more giving. He was driven to do good things that people came to know him for, not to be egotistical,  but because he found it addictive, and it made him feel good. He said, it is important to show gratitude to your community when running a business and it is a true indication of your success, when you can give back. 

It all relates to being healthy as well, as businesses need health too.  Businesses don’t always buy the right product and inventory may have to be moved in some other way. So, with Jake’s Giant Give, they were actually ‘exercising’ their business to make it healthier. Giving keeps you and your business healthy and drives how we feel in life. 

Jon loved helping to bring Jake’s Gigantic Give together.  He said that, when you see the end result of your giving, it gives you a great sense of accomplishment. It just makes everyone better to do good!

Next up,  we had the incredible singer/songwriter SAGE, who performed the song,’ Count On Me’, by Bruno Mars. SAGE is the recent winner of Western University’s The Voice Competition. At the age of 13, she was a Mini POP kid. Since then, Sage has been sharing covers on YouTube and TikTok, with almost 100,000 followers. She recently released her original song “Too Good”and we have no doubt we will be seeing more of Sage in the years to come. Check her out on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram as That Singer Sage.

Our Shining Star was Ryann Fineberg. We first met Ryann when she was a student in our Project Give Back Program. This young advocate shows no sign of slowing down. Now at fifteen, she is a Research Assistant at the University of Toronto! She was also one of the youngest delegates to attend the latest United Nations Biodiversity Conference. 

Ryann considers herself an animal and climate advocate, who gives presentations on issues that she is passionate about, hoping to inspire more youth to incorporate kindness. Compassion and understanding help make a difference, especially with regards to youth advocacy.  She says that behind the scenes there is a lot of hard work, but if kindness and compassion are there, it makes the work more meaningful for all involved. 

In light of Holocaust Education month, Lindsay at One2GiveTo wanted to draw our attention to the state of Holocaust survivors currently living in Toronto. Many live well under the poverty line.  You can help by donating gift cards or by coming out to see Holocaust survivor and educator, Pinchas Gutter speak at a local event, coming up on May 17th.

And that’s a wrap on Unwrapping Kindness!

Project Give Back and Project Give Back Connects are all about embracing kindness and educating our youth about the importance of empathy, compassion, leadership and community mindedness. In a world where so many people hate, we can learn so much more from those who love.

It was Martin Luther King Jr. who said, “Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”

Ellen has had a front row view of pure love in action for 21 years, and the results were magnificent. While her son Jacob couldn’t see you, he felt you. And if you were kind – he loved you. Imagine if WE did not judge others by our own perceptions?

Why is there so much hate in our world? How can we combat it together? How can we erase the hate and create more love and understanding?

We had some experts who had some answers and life experiences to share about this extremely difficult, yet important topic.

Our first guest was Michael Levitt.  Michael is the President and CEO of Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, Canada’s leading human rights organization devoted to Holocaust education and fighting Antisemitism and other forms of racism. He is a regular columnist in the Toronto Star, he’s also frequently interviewed in the media on issues pertaining to human rights, social inclusion, discrimination, and hate. As a former two-term Member of Parliament, he served as Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and was a founding member of the Inter-Parliamentary Coalition to Combat Online Antisemitism.

Michael spoke about how to combat hate; by standing up and making a change. He went on to quote two holocaust survivors, whose lessons remain so critical today. 

“Freedom is not a gift from heaven, you have to fight for it every day.”

The first quote was from Simon Wiesenthal, who as a teenager in the Holocaust, lost 89 family members.  Yet, he never gave up.  Instead, he sought justice and committed his life to track down former nazis, and have them persecuted for their crimes. He made it his life mission. His quote:

“Be upstanders, not bystanders.”

Max Eisen said, when you see hate, have the confidence and courage to say something. He was committed to spreading a message of love, activism and making his story one to inspire. There was no bitterness nor anger with Max. He only wanted to ensure that the lessons he learned from the Holocaust were shared. 

We live in a complicated time, especially for youth. Social media can be so confusing. Like recent hate speeches spread by Kanye West and Kyle Irving, they allowed their words to cause pain to others. When evil prevails through negative messages, we need to find the strength to push back. We need to discuss, address and speak out about our feelings. Remember you are not alone. Go to someone you trust and stand up for what is good, because the best defense against evil, is good people. 

Michael then  told us about ‘The Tour for Humanity’, which are mobile classrooms that travel throughout the provinces. They offer programming based on the Holocaust,human rights, and genocide, with programs geared towards different grade levels.  They are able to reach communities that may not have been exposed to these issues and allow them access to these invaluable messages.

Next up, we had another real star, Star Jackman. Star is a determined and compassionate young man who has overcome many obstacles in his life. He uses his skills and passion for boxing to help others find their path to success. He has an unwavering positive attitude and has become a role model for many.

Star spoke about his upbringing, as a first generation Canadian who came  from a large family.  He was raised by white parents in a small town, with a predominately white community. So as a child, he often faced bullying, just by being different, due to the colour of his skin.

As he grew up, Star came to understand how to view the world by communicating who he was. “It doesn’t matter what anyone says about you, it matters about how you view yourself.”  He got into athletics.  When he got into physical altercations, he quickly learned that he couldn’t fight everyone who was negative.  Not everything in life needs a reaction.  Therefore, he channeled his energy into boxing.  

Through boxing, Star learned to trust himself and others and understand that you can be more than what you are.  With boxing, he learned to make commitments, learn about perspective and letting go. Today, Star is a provincial champion.  He also coaches and trains kids who came from similar backgrounds. Boxing saved him and changed the trajectory of his life.

Next up, we enjoyed a serenade by a Project Give Back Connects favourite, Seth Zosky. He is a triple threat – singer/dancer/actor and now he is a Juno nominated songwriter! Seth introduced his fitting song choice,  ‘Beautiful’, by Christina Aguilera, by sharing a poem that he wrote:

Your beauty is yours and yours only 

For it makes you unique

It is still there shining through and through even when you are weak

Each and everyone of us holds a special place in this thing we call life

You are loved, you are cherished 

Don’t listen to words that cut like a knife 

Stay true to your heart and that is where you are meant to be 

No matter who you are your beauty runs free 

Wow, now that was truly beautiful!

Our young guest was Cole Florence. Cole had many lessons to teach us. He was just assigned a project at school to combat bullying. He told us that 1/5 students report being bullied and that the effects of bullying increase depression, stress, anxiety and give you low self-esteem. If you are a victim, you must speak up.  We all need to do our part. What an impressive young advocate Cole has become!

We heard similar messages from all ages and experiences, all with a clear message to share; stand up and speak out against hate. 

Thank you to all of our special guests for these important lessons. 

Please share this episode with anyone who might benefit from learning from these powerful messages.

Each week ends with the same message. Today, it seems even more pertinent. 

As always, be kind to one another, embrace one another and learn from one another. If we do these simple three things, our world will be a lot brighter.

lifetime to find what it is, while others know it at a very young age.  For some, it just takes time to develop and percolate. But, when we know, it’s a WOW!

Today’s guests all have found that inner spark to light up the world. 

Starting with our first guest, Marcia Agius. Marcia is a wife, mother of three, and a philanthropist involved in many charities including, Odette Cancer Centre, Make a Wish and Million Dollar Smiles. During the pandemic Marcia truly found her voice. She is the Founder of the Instagram Account and movement called ‘Inspire Always’. It is a place that spreads kindness, positivity, and inspiration every day. Each featured guest shares their favourite quote. Marcia shared hers – “You can’t compete with me. I want you to win too.” 

Tonight, Marcia also shared her story. Two years ago, she didn’t consider herself anything but a stay-at-home mom. But during the pandemic, she craved to seek out positivity. And so began her Instagram page, ‘Inspire Always’; a forum where remarkable women nominate each another.  It all began as a passion project and grew to feature quotes and stories shared by over 400 inspiring women. 

Marcia found her passion and purpose and shared some sage advice. “Do not let fear stop you from following your dreams. Challenge yourself to do something uncomfortable. Whatever your passion is, just go for it!” Following that advice, Marcia has decided to launch another initiative.  On February 17, which happens to be Random Acts of Kindness Day, she will launch ‘The Kindness Circle’.  This initiative will be a community driven group that supports charities while spreading kindness and giving. Please check out Marcia’s Instagram page _inspirealways for a dose of inspiration.

Our next guests were Carla and Ivy Rockmore.  Carla was always fascinated by fashion and the fashion world. She is a designer, a collector and lover of all things beautiful. She says, “The most important thing you can ever put on is your confidence.” Carla has a huge personality and a sense of humour which is so welcoming.

During the pandemic, Carla went into her closet and decided to put together outfits for inspiration. People started watching and listening. Her TikTok and Instagram accounts blew up. On TikTok she has over 1.3 million followers. Vogue Magazine named Carla, the real-life Carrie Bradshaw. 

Carla spoke about her experience going viral during the Pandemic. She really enjoyed making videos and had Ivy’s help with the editing and content. Now, Carla works with companies to help them get their own messages across on social media outlets. 

She shared three pivotal tips that she learned. 

1. Try something new even if it’s scary
2. Do things that are challenging because that’s a reward within itself. 
3. Every person is a superstar in their own right, so use your skills to give back to the community. 

Then, Carla shared a diagram on what she calls, ‘The Sweet Spot of Happiness’: a combination of merging education skills, (what you are good at) hobbies (what you love to do) and finally community need.  For Carla, it was her design skills, combined with her acting talents, and helping others during the pandemic that allowed Carla to find her shining light.  Fill in those circles, to find your own sweet spot.  Ironically, this same rationale is one that is used by PGB students to create their own projects!

Then, 18-year-old Ivy shared her own story.  Ivy identifies as a transgender girl; born male, but inside, felt female. She transitioned over the Pandemic and became her authentic self.  As Ivy said, “a new name, but the same person.” One for the world to see, but not dictate.  She wanted to feel better in the body that she was given. Ivy was given much support and encouragement and now embodies her mother’s mantra, ‘she sits well in her skin.’ Together, Ivy and Carla are helping so many others find their own unique path.

Tyler Simmons is very special to Ellen’s family and an old friend of Jacob. Jacob loved music, so he was brought to concerts and musicals. It was at a fundraising event for the Liv Wise Foundation, when Jacob first heard Tyler Simmons sing. Jacob lit up. The two became fast friends and Tyler would often visit Jacob on Sundays. At a young age, Tyler knew the reason he was here. This extremely talented singer/songwriter continues to follow his dream. Tonight, he performed an original, called ‘Avalon’, a song he wrote at 16, when deciding what he wanted to do with his life; make music.  He performed at the School of Rock, where he currently teaches. 

Next, we met Amy Janes and Robert Humes, who are the Co Chairs of this year’s CCC, Cure Cancer Classic – a student run initiative that raises money through sporting tournaments. Last year they broke all records and raised an astounding $340,000 for Cancer Research. These young leaders care so much and are truly passionate about this cause.  They have been part of this team for over the last 4 years, holding ambitious goals to make events become more inclusive and involved with the community.  Recently, the club reached the cumulative goal of raising 1 million dollars!  Seeing the rewards of their efforts pay off, has been extremely rewarding for both Amy and Robert.  They are eager to stay a part of this team and change the way people view fundraising, by making it more experiential, rather than just a financial contribution. 

Finally, Lindsay at One2Give spoke about Mental Health. In light of Bell Let’s Talk Day, Lindsay shared that over 28,000 kids are awaiting mental health support in our province. Wait times are 3 times longer than should be. What’s Up Walk-In offers free mental health counselling and support to anyone, both in person and over the phone.  There’s also, Kids Help Phone.  Please help spread the word about these incredible organizations and make an effort to check in regularly with those around you. 

Thank you to all of our special guests today. Please share this episode with anyone who might benefit from learning from today’s powerful messages from our inspiring guests.

As always, my message to you is to be kind to one another, to embrace one another and to learn from one another!

Audrey Guth founded the Nanny Angel Network (now known as Nankind) back in 2009, while undergoing treatment for breast cancer. She is a mother and an entrepreneur, who identified a crucial gap in our health care services.

Audrey came to Toronto in 1979 and worked as a Public Health Nutritionist for the City of Toronto, where she created “Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies,” a program for new mothers that still exists to this day. In 1989, Audrey left her career in Public Heath to create Diamond Personnel Inc., placing over 5,000 caregivers in the homes of Canadians across the country. Her company earned the title “Best Nanny Agency Award” by City Parent Magazine and A Top Choice Award from the City of Toronto. She was named a L’Oréal Paris Canada Woman of Worth honouree and was even named a CNN Hero!

Audrey shared her story and some valuable lessons that she has learned along the way. She began by telling a story about a little girl, whose father became ill when she was just 9 years old. One day, this girl overheard her teachers talking, and through them, found out that her father had cancer. It was devastating! Yet, her parents never told her, because they didn’t want to upset her and they continued to never speak about the illness. While her father went for treatments, this little girl had to take on the responsibility for her younger siblings. And then, when she was just 12, her father died. Everyone was sad, but still,no one talked about it. Nothing was normal. Her dad was gone and this girl became very lonely and isolated…This girl was Audrey.

Audrey shared this story,  to highlight that not much has changed today. People still remain uncomfortable talking about illness and loss. To change that up, we need to give children a forum where they feel safe to talk about illness and ask questions. We must give kids a chance to grieve and discuss grief issues. Otherwise, there may be dire consequences affecting these children for the rest of their lives. 

How can you offer support? Just be there. Don’t give advice, but be a good listener and talk without having judgement. ‘Nankind’, Audrey’s company, does this. They offer trained volunteers who are sent in to help families affected by cancer and their grieving children. Check out the website for Nankind; www.nankind.ca

We then met a mother/daughter team, Sophia and Nicolle. Together, they make up the ‘Super Sophia Project’, and they shared their inspirational story.

Sophia’s  journey has basically become a movement. It all began when Sophia was two and diagnosed with Leukemia. During her hospital stay, a custodian gifted her with a pack of stickers.  This kind hearted gesture made a big impact upon Sophia and her family.  It inspired them to come up with the idea for ‘Love Boxes’, to comfort children during their hospital stays. 

They started making Love Boxes in 2016 with a goal of making 100 boxes which quickly turned into 1000!  Since then, their local community got involved and they have now gifted over 30,000 boxes to children in need!

Sadly in 2019, Sophia’s father passed away from cancer.   Both she and her mother have sought comfort in the joy they have brought to others.  

Helping others and sharing love has been their ‘mantra’.

If you wish to contribute to the Super Sophia Project and fill your own love boxes, please reach out to Nicolle. Currently, they are looking for basic essentials such as tooth brushes and tooth paste, socks, books, and activities to fill teen boxes. 

Sophia’s message is clear. “It’s not about the toys and other items, it’s the love that fill these boxes. Be kind to each other and spread love.”

http://www.thesupersophiaproject.ca/

Jules Halpern has been singing and writing music for years, and she is only 14 years old.  At 12, she performed the National Anthem at Madison Square Gardens. Jules continuously shares her gift with others and tonight she shared it with us, beautifully performing the song, ‘Wonderful’ by Lianne La Havas.

Thank you to all of our special guests tonight. Please share this Episode with anyone who might benefit from learning these powerful messages from our inspiring guests. As always our message to you is to be kind to one another, to embrace one another and to learn from one another. We certainly did that tonight!

Stevie Wonder sang, “Music is a world within itself, with a language we all understand.” Ellen saw this power consistency with her son, Jacob. He couldn’t speak, but music filled his soul. As soon as he heard one note, his eyes would light up with anticipation and he would instantly connect to the music and the person playing that music.

What is it about music that speaks so deeply inside us? Is it the melody? Is it the lyrics? Is it the beat? Or is it all of the above? It is very easy to click and listen, but to master an instrument, well, that’s dedication, hard work and God-given talent. Tonight, we had some hometown musical legends who all had harmonious lessons to share.

Years ago, Jacob spent many months in the hospital. There was a time when he wasn’t responsive and he just slept. Kayla, our first guest, came down to visit. Jakey loved Kayla. She entered the hospital room and made these notes, that she does with her lips – and do you know what Jakey did? He smiled. This was when Ellen first realized that music was the language that Jakey spoke fluently.

Kayla is a prominent figure in the children’s music industry. For more than 30  years, she has been teaching children and parents alike, the joy that music can bring to their lives. She has a degree in music (BFA.Mu.) and she is an Educator, Writer, Performer and Entertainer. Kayla has written three popular children’s CDs; ‘The Purple Birthday Cake’, ‘Come Spin with Me’ and the Parent’s Choice Award-winning, ‘Splish Splash Kerplash’.

Kayla spoke about her own musical experience, which she said began with her nursery school teacher. And so, ironically, it came full circle when she became a children’s entertainer and music teacher, herself.

Kayla grew up in a small town, where she picked up a guitar and along with her friends, they would teach each other songs. She always wanted to follow her idol, Joni Mitchell, but her parents were not on board. Instead, she started playing music for children at a summer camp. So her next idol, became other children’s singers. It was here, where Kayla began writing children’s songs. At this camp, Kayla was then invited to come to a child’s birthday and that is what launched the beginning of her in-house music program. That is where she met Ellen and Jacob.

From there, Kayla went on to write a children’s musical called, ‘The Wisdom of Winston’. The songs from this musical became the songs on her first album. Not only did she become Polkeroo’s sidekick on TV Ontario and sing on Treehouse TV, Kayla performed concerts all over North America.

Ultimately, what Kayla learned and the message she wanted to share, was that, when an unexpected door opens, don’t be afraid to walk through it. That opportunity changed her entire life, by giving her a career that has brought her so much joy.

“Follow your dreams, work hard and persevere. It’s all worth it!The joy from anyone experiencing your music is purely magical.”

Thank you Kayla, for all the magic you have created for your listeners.

Our next guest became friends with Ellen over their shared love for music and their love for their children. Jacob and Jack’s daughter, Mercey, were classmates at a school for children with complex needs. Turns out, this “Dad” was, Jack Lenz – composer extraordinaire! Ellen just knew him as Mercey’s incredibly loving father.

Jack Lenz is a Canadian composer, who has written, performed, and produced music for film, television, and theatre all over the world. He was a professional musician and musical director for Seals and Crofts and Loggins and Messina. Lenz has also written and produced songs for Andrea Bocceli, Celine Dion, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Josh Groban and The Canadian Tenors.

In fact, he wrote a song that every single one of you has heard and sang many times….’Okay, Blue Jays…Let’s Play Ball’. To check out more about this incredibly impressive human being – go to his website; JackLenzMusic.com

Jack feels that within all our hearts, there are ‘noble sentiments’. For him the purpose of art, is to awaken those sentiments. Those real feelings of love, kindness and compassion stem from the awakening of the heart. This is the impact for which Jack has always strived.

Jack also feels that artists are the eyes and ears of humanity. They awaken those sentiments in us and help us go up ‘the ladder of music’. The heart and soul of a person can ascend this ladder and truly feel something they never have before, through the power of music. It becomes something that gives you a feeling that leads to beauty, compassion and kindness. And it is all connected to the powers of imagination and curiosity. Music reverberates within our soul.

Jack recalled a story about Albert Einstein, who as a child struggled with school, but said that music taught him a sense of order and peace. Music can lead you to being a better human being. Its harmonious beauty can lead you to act a certain way and become a better person. Jack strongly encourages the arts to awaken this sensibility.

Jack ended by citing an essay by Leon Tolstoy, “What is art?” All great art is universal and it comes from a spiritual impulse within us. When combined, it allows us to transcend the dust of everyday life and makes us more compassionate and kind. Through music, we can all experience that feeling.

Thank you Jack for these incredible insights into the beauty of music.

Abby and Sarah tuned in from Halifax, where they attend University. It is here where they continue to play music and even continue to join in the weekly Sunday Jam Concerts. Abby and Sara, sang an original song called, ‘On Our Own’. They reminded us that, as long as you love and support yourself, you are never alone.

Last season you met our next guest, who is a previous recipient of the ‘Joey Award’ from Project Give Back. This award is presented to a past student of Project Give Back who continues to make an impact in their community and beyond.

Arissa Roy is now 16 years old. She is a youth activist, author, and the founder of an international organization- ‘Project Power Global’, (www.projectpowerglobal.org). She is an advocate for mental health awareness and climate, with a focus on access to education. Just recently she was invited to the United Nations Headquarters to represent the voice of youth.

Arissa’s passion for advocacy was sparked at the mere age of 9, when she took part in PGB herself. She continues her connection with our program to this day. Arissa recalled how music and art has always been a crucial part of her own journey. In fact, when Arissa recently spoke at the UN, she spoke about the quality of education and the importance of the integration of art and music in curriculum throughout the world!

Arissa also shared two of her current projects. The first is a book that she wrote called, “Rocks to Ripples”. It teaches young people that they all have the ability to make a difference in this word. The book is a tribute to her grandmother, who recently passed away. It recounts many of her grandmother’s life lessons; one which states that, we can all make a difference. We are all change makers; a sentiment that is echoed by PGB as well.

Her next project is a documentary that she filmed during her most recent trip to India and Nepal. Arissa documents how young people are impacted by their barriers to education. Her ultimate goal is to better their education system. As always, Arissa had PGB in mind, as it has reminded her about the integration of global citizenship. Her final message; we all have the power to create an impact on this world through our own ripples of change. Turns out, that Arissa is not just creating a ripple, but rather a tidal wave!

Lindsay, @One2GiveTo concluded the episode. She reminded us that, as Halloween is approaching, to look at it through a lease of equity and inclusion. Consider giving some of your treats away to make someone else smile. Both smiling and kindness are contagious!

Thank you once again to all our incredible guests who have nourished all our hearts and souls with their immense talents and wisdom.