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"By all these lovely tokens, September days are here. With summer's best of weather and autumn's best of cheer." – Helen Hunt Jackson | |
International Day of Charity: Sept 5 | | |
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Dear Volunteers and Board Members,
On this meaningful day (International Day of Charity), we are reminded of the incredible impact that collective efforts can have in making our world and community a better place. Your dedication and commitment to our cause have been a driving force in creating positive change in our community, and we are truly grateful for your philanthropic spirit.
As we celebrate this day, we invite you to continue your generous work by coming together for a cause that's close to all our hearts. We are excited for our upcoming "Walk to Remember" fundraising event, an initiative that not only honors the memories of our loved ones but also contributes to a cause that resonates deeply with all of us.
We believe that your passion and dedication can shine even brighter as we form a united team to fundraise for the "Walk to Remember." By joining forces, we can amplify our impact and make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. Your participation will not only inspire others but will also create lasting memories and a sense of purpose that embodies the spirit of this event.
We encourage you to embrace the opportunity to be a part of a fundraising team, or to create your own as it's a chance to channel your enthusiasm and energy into a cause that truly matters. Every step we take together will bring us closer to achieving our fundraising goals and creating a positive impact in our community.
To get involved and join or create a fundraising team for the "Walk to Remember," please click this link: www.bereavedfamilies.ca/walktoremember2023. Remember, the power of your kindness and dedication can make a world of difference!
Thank you for being the heart of our organization and for continuously embodying the true essence of charity. Together, we can create a legacy of compassion and support that will leave a lasting mark on the lives we touch.
With gratitude and excitement,
Victoria Berry
Social Service Manager
International Day of Charity is a global observance dedicated to promoting acts of kindness, generosity, and philanthropy to create positive impacts in communities worldwide.
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Share your birthday for a special shoutout! Email Victoria to be celebrated.
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Team Updates and Accomplishments! | | |
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Sam and Jon (Sam's husband) welcomed the arrival of baby Finn this summer. Finn was born on July 30th 2023 at 4:45am, at home, delivered by Sam herself!
Healthy at 8lbs 2oz, Finn's favourite things are snuggles with Mama & Daddy, staring at his stuffed giraffe, and going on walks with Nana.
Here’s a cute picture of him very alert!
Sam is busy working on some Fall candles to put together for Walk to Remember, and she will be sending us photos once they're finished.
| No updates from Irish, Julia, Amanda, or Eran! | |
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Victoria recently finished her first week of her Master of Social Work. Her Master's has a health focus, where she will also be exploring grief and loss courses and themes. She is excited to finish this time next year.
She is also celebrating 5 years this month with CFGH!
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Kelly and her fiancé Adam won a rental kitchen makeover from an interior design YouTuber, Alexandra Gater. You can see Kelly in the YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG9Q64btND0.
Kelly and Adam had their engagement shoot on August 8 and have already gotten their photos back. Check them out (see above and below)!
Kelly is also starting her MA in Counselling Psychology in Yorkville University on September 5 - preview week just started this week (week of August 28) where she'll have access to the first week's content. She has already started her readings and is enjoying them!
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Photographer Credit: Boeun Kim Photography
Hair & Makeup Credit: @anarubeauty and bespoke makeup
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Reminders: Irish is out of office from August 28th - September 15th and Julia is out of office from September 4th-21st. No groups will run from September 1st-September 18th. | |
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Check out the links below to see if there are workshops, seminars, trainings, and/or podcasts related to your role that are in September! Feel free to share new ones you come across with the team.
Recurring Workshop and Webinar Links:
Free Upcoming Workshops and Webinars:
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Asynchronous (Free): Suicide Prevention
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Asynchronous (Free): Suicide Awareness Training
- September 5, 7:00pm (weekly until Sept 26): Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
- September 8, 4:30pm: An Introduction to Peer Support
- September 19, 3:00pm: Intro to Fundraising: Effective Strategies for Nonprofits
- September 21, 11:00am: Nonprofit Fundraising 101
- September 25, 4:00pm: Mindful Eating
- September 26, 3:30pm: The Role of Board Chair
- September 27, 2:00pm: Fiduciary Duties in the Nonprofit Sector
- September 27, 6:30pm (hosted by the City of Brampton): Effective Fundraising
- October 4, 10:00am: Burnout, Secondary Trauma, & Compassion Fatigue in Peer Support
- November 15, 6:30pm (hosted by the City of Brampton): Guiding Policies for Non-Profits
New Resources:
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Click the links below to see what's going on in August for workshops related to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA)!

Recurring Workshop and Webinar Links:
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Health and Safety in the Workplace | | |
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Celebrating National Yoga Awareness Month!
This month's talk is: Ergonomics for a Healthier Workspace.
As we embrace National Yoga Awareness Month, let's focus on enhancing our health and safety in the workplace through the power of stretching and movement. Incorporating simple stretches into our daily routine can help alleviate tension, improve flexibility, and promote overall well-being.
Here are some easy stretches to integrate into your workday:
Neck Stretch
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Why: Prolonged screen time can lead to neck stiffness. This stretch helps alleviate tension and improves neck mobility.
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When: Throughout the day.
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How: Gently tilt your head to one side, holding for 15-20 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
Shoulder Rolls
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Why: Prolonged sitting can cause shoulder tension. Shoulder rolls help release stress and improve blood circulation.
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When: Every hour.
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How: Roll your shoulders forward and then backward in circular motions.
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Accommodation: If you find circular motions challenging, you can perform single-direction shoulder rolls by lifting your shoulders up and down.
Seated Spinal Twist
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Why: Sitting for long periods can impact spinal health. This twist enhances spinal flexibility and reduces stiffness.
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When: Mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
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How: While seated, twist your upper body to the right, holding for 20 seconds. Repeat on the other side.
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Accommodation: For those with mobility concerns, you can perform a seated twist by using your hands to gently guide your torso in the desired direction.
Hamstring Stretch
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Why: Extended sitting can lead to tight hamstrings and lower back discomfort. This stretch improves flexibility and prevents strain.
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How: Stand up, place one foot on a chair, and gently lean forward from your hips.
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When: After sitting for extended periods.
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Accommodation: If standing is a challenge, you can perform seated hamstring stretches by extending one leg at a time and gently leaning forward.

Wrist and Finger Stretches
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Why: Typing for long hours can strain wrists and fingers. These stretches help reduce tension and promote wrist health.
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When: Before and after typing.
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How: Extend your arm, gently pull your fingers down with the opposite hand, and switch sides.
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Accommodation: If finger stretches are difficult, you can gently flex and extend your fingers individually to promote flexibility.
Remember, these stretches are meant to be gentle and should never cause discomfort. Regularly taking short breaks to stretch can help prevent muscle strain and boost your energy levels.
Let's embrace National Yoga Awareness Month by dedicating a few moments each day to move and stretch. Your body and mind will thank you!
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Staff, don't forget: your home office inspections are due for the month of September by September 30th, October 1st the latest!
Once you've reviewed your space, please email Victoria with the following (no need to attach the checklist):
- The date (mm/dd/yyyy) you completed your inspection.
- Confirmation that your workspace is in good order and there are no issues.
- If there are issues or hazards, the details about said issues or potential hazards you've identified.
If you find issues or potential hazards, please remember to e-mail both Julia and Victoria. We'll work to address and resolve any concerns you have!
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Integrating desk yoga stretches into your routine can be a game-changer for your overall well-being. As you immerse yourself in tasks, it's easy to overlook the toll that extended periods of sitting can have on your body. That's where these desk yoga stretches come in – they provide a revitalizing break for both your mind and body.
Incorporating brief yet effective stretches not only relieves muscle tension and enhances flexibility but also reenergizes your focus. Set a rhythm by taking 5 minutes every 30 minutes to indulge in these stretches and/or a break, and you'll find that they seamlessly blend into your work routine. These moments of mindful movement can uplift your spirits, prevent stiffness, and boost productivity!
So, as you navigate your workday, remember that these desk yoga stretches are more than just physical exercises. They're a reminder that your well-being matters and that taking a brief pause to stretch is an investment in your long-term comfort and productivity. Embrace these rejuvenating moments, and let the serenity of desk yoga accompany you on your journey towards a healthier work environment.
Take a deep breath, stretch it out, and embrace the positive impact of desk yoga in your workday.
Have a Tool you'd like to recommend to the team? Email Victoria for it to be featured here!
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Upcoming Holidays, Celebrations, and Awareness Days | | |
What's Happening in September? |
- Blood Cancer Awareness Month
- Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
- Men’s Cancer Health Awareness Month
- Muscular Dystrophy Month
- Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
- Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
- Recovery Month
- Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
- International Pain Awareness Month
- National Yoga Awareness Month
- Sept 5: International Day of Charity
- Sept 15-17: Rosh Hashanah
- Sept 17: Terry Fox Day
- Sept 17: International Country Music Day
- Sept 18: World Clean and Green Week
- Sept 21: World Peace Day and World Gratitude Day
- Sept 23: Hello, Fall!
- Sept 24-25: Yom Kippur
- Sept 25: World Dream Day
- Sept 25-29: International Week of Happiness at Work
- Sept 27: Ancestor Appreciation Day
- Sept 30: Orange Shirt Day / TRC Day and Walk to Remember
- ....Plus so many more!
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Celebrating and honouring religious and cultural holidays, celebrations, and awareness days around Canada.
We continue to challenge YOU to take the time to research what is happening this month. Specifically, we challenge you to share with the team one new learning about the Indigenous community's experience with racism, grief, loss, historical trauma, and discrimination.
It is crucial for individuals to take the initiative to research and educate themselves about the history and experiences of underserved populations. By engaging in self-directed learning, individuals promote awareness, understanding, and empathy, while challenging biases and fostering personal growth. Researching independently honors diverse voices, encourages responsible education, and equips individuals to be effective allies. It is an active and respectful approach to learning that amplifies marginalized narratives and contributes to a more inclusive society.
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What's Going On Out There? | | |
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Orange Shirt Day: September 30th
On Truth and Reconciliation Day, we unite to acknowledge the deep importance of honoring Indigenous communities, their histories, and their resilience. 🌿
Why it matters:
Truth and Reconciliation Day is a solemn reminder of the painful legacy of residential schools and a call for healing and understanding. This day allows us to reflect on the past while working towards a better future, marked by reconciliation and unity.
What we can do:
🧡 Wear an orange shirt or orange item on September 30th to show your support and solidarity.
🧡 Educate yourself about the history of residential schools and their impact on Indigenous communities.
🧡 Engage in conversations that promote awareness, empathy, and understanding.
Honoring through action:
Let's strive to amplify Indigenous voices, learn from their wisdom, and support initiatives that empower Indigenous communities. Together, we can play a role in fostering healing, reconciliation, and a brighter future.
Grief's unique impact:
It's essential to acknowledge that grief affects Indigenous communities differently due to historical and ongoing traumas. Let's be mindful of this as we come together in unity, compassion, and support.
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Delayed Grief:
Delayed grief is a phenomenon observed within Indigenous communities, where the weight of historical trauma becomes fully understood across generations. It's a testament to the resilience of these communities, who have navigated the complexities of their experiences while carrying the sorrow of their ancestors.
Loss of Identity:
The loss of identity is an integral part of this journey, as the erasure of language, cultural practices, and connection to ancestral roots has deeply affected Indigenous individuals. This grief, often unspoken, carries the weight of generations striving to reclaim their heritage.
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Ecological Grief:
For many Indigenous individuals, the profound connection to the land is a source of sustenance, culture, and spirituality. Ecological grief is keenly felt as traditional territories face ecological challenges, impacting both the environment and the collective spirit of the community.
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"I have enough books," said no book lover ever. |
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Read a Book Day: September 6th
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Buy a Book Day: September 7th
As Read a Book Day approaches, we're excited to celebrate by hearing from some of our team members about their latest reads! They'll be sharing their current reads or most recent books they enjoyed.
Victoria read the book "A Mind Spread Out on the Ground" by Alicia Elliott. This book is a collection of essays that explores topics such as colonialism, identity, mental health, and the intergenerational impact of trauma on Indigenous communities in Canada. Alicia Elliott combines personal anecdotes, cultural insights, and critical analysis to offer a thought-provoking perspective on complex issues. The title itself might symbolize the exploration of these themes through the lens of a deeply contemplative and introspective journey.
If you've read a book or books in the past month and you'd like to suggest it/them for others to read, email Victoria before the next month to be featured! Please include the name and author, your rating or thoughts on the book, the category of the book (optional), and a brief description (optional).
*Always look up trigger warnings if you're interested in anyone's reads!
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Memorial Wall: We Honor and Remember... | | |
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If your loved ones' birthdays or anniversaries, including those of your furry friends, are coming up next month, and you'd like to remember them on our Memorial Wall, please get in touch with Victoria before the end of this month. Share a photo, video, description, or a message – whatever you're comfortable with – so we can honor your dear ones.
We do this throughout the year to show respect, and also to remind our caring team that certain days can be tough for some of us. It's a way to encourage kind words, stories, or checking in with one another.
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