TOV - Tikun Olam Volunteers

The Tikun Olam Volunteers (TOV) program mobilizes and connects individuals with volunteer opportunities for one-time projects and on an ongoing basis. The initiative was created by and is overseen by Federation CJA’s Women’s Philanthropy.

Tikun Olam Volunteers strive to make a significant difference in the lives of those members of the community who are less fortunate, one person at a time. By participating in numerous initiatives, volunteers bring joy and comfort to the lonely, the sick, the poor and the elderly.

TOV is based on the reality that there are many needs for volunteer assistance in the community and that many people are looking for a way to give of their time. The program offers people the opportunity to participate in hands-on volunteering for a variety of programs offered by Federation’s constituent agencies. The type of volunteerism might include chauffeuring an aged or infirm person to an appointment or activity, packaging frozen Meals on Wheels or serving meals at Le Café.

The program allows people to volunteer based on their own availability. Their commitment can be a regular one or to fill-in when need arises, and the request to volunteer is organized to best fit their schedules. TOV communicates by email, detailing the service that is required and volunteers respond with their interest. TOV believes that people are looking for a way to reach out and help, and that many do not know how to begin. It makes the transition both smooth and easy and helps provide volunteers with a meaningful experience.

Since the program was launched a year ago, it has developed a volunteer pool of over 2,000 people. Volunteers have made a real difference working at Le Café, with Meals on Wheels and at the JEM Workshop.

In addition, eight hands-on projects have been initiated by the TOV Steering Committee and volunteers. Make a Teddy Bear Mitzvah Day attracted over 200 families. At the Passover Mitzvah Day, well over 100 families participated. The Awards project created more than 280 meaningful awards for Combined Jewish Appeal volunteers. Shabbat in a Box supports new immigrant families and families in need on a monthly basis. At the Annual Clothing Give-Away, brand new clothing and school supplies were collected and distributed to over 700 children and their families. The Warm Hands project mobilized women and teenagers to knit over 600 scarves for children in need and the Pack-it-up program encouraged CEGEP and university students to collect school supplies. The Giving Basket project creates centerpieces for tables at mitzvoth that will be donated to charity afterwards. In the JEM Connection project, TOV volunteers assist on the floor, supervise lunch and engage in various activities at the JEM Workshop. The Dress for Success program provides gently-used business clothing to people in need who are going to interviews or starting new jobs.