“Envisioning a New Beginning for Seniors.” JCAN is actively promoting health and wellness in underserved sectors

BY PAUL JUNOR

JCAN is committed to “Building Stronger Communities,” through “Promoting Health & Wellness in Black Communities.” They are a charitable not-for-profit organization that was established in 2014. They engage in a variety of activities including: offering culturally relevant programs, supporting the Future of Healthcare Professionals by supporting nursing students, and their unwavering commitment to acknowledging the achievements of Black and Indigenous People through healthcare leadership recognition awards.

I spoke with Jacqueline Chen, current President of JCAN on Monday, October 23^rd, 2023, regarding the future of the organization and changes that have occurred since she has been President. She told me about the acquisition of office space at 342-4544 Sheppard Avenue East, and how it will help to amplify their physical presence, although there is still a need for a bigger space to deliver its programs and services.

She is excited that she has been part of the rebranding of JCAN as “Joint Coalition Addressing Needs.” While it still retains its legal name (Jamaican Canadian Association of Nurses), the rebranding represents an expansion of the mission of JCAN, which is to promote health and wellness in the wider African/Caribbean-Canadian community to underserved sectors.

She spoke highly of the Board of Directors. This past September, Jacqueline onboarded seven new esteemed Board members, ushering in a new era for JCAN. The new Board, now consists of nine members:

• Era Mae Ferron, Vice President
• Debra Williams, Executive Secretary
• Agatha McPhee, Treasure
• Israel Hunter
• Scherrie-Ann Richards
• Crystal Garvey
• Shayna Wedderburn
• Dennis Isaacs
• Denyse Dawes

The organization’s executive Director, Dr. Claudette Holloway supports operations. She told me of the great turnout that JCAN had at its 6^th Annual Charity Gala, which was held on June 17^th, 2023 after a two-year hiatus. The theme of the gala was “Envisioning a New Beginning for Seniors.” The website states, “It not only celebrated our commitment to supporting seniors, but also raised an impressive $10,000.”

There were several hundred individuals in attendance at the JCAN’s Annual Brunch for a Cause held in Scarborough. It was hosted by comedian Mark Trinidad, and it featured savory food selections of breakfast and brunch from the Caribbean as well as a silent auction.

Andrea Hazell, the newly elected MPP of Scarborough-Guildwood spoke about the importance of a health care unit and long-term nursing home in the Black community, a long-term goal of the JCAN. There were three Compassionate Awards that were handed to Clinical Assistants of Academic Hospitals: Yvette Ferguahason, Valesta Trumpet and Everton Fearon. They were distributed by Jennifer Dockery, General Manager of Seniors Services and Long-Term Care at the City of Toronto.

She stated, “The population of seniors is growing 6X faster than children. According to the WHO, about 80% of older people will be living in low and middle income. By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be 60 years or older.” With respect to JCAN, she states, “JCAN’s mission is clear, compelling, and critically important.” She told the audience. “By offering services and support that are not only accessible but also culturally sensitive we are contributing to a healthier and happier future for countless individuals.”

In her presidential special, President Jacqueline highlighted some of the achievements of JCAN over the past year. These include:

• Hosting their first annual charity gala post-pandemic
• Raising over $25,000 through its Run, Walk or Run fundraiser.
• Presented the 2023 Inspiring Leader Award to Magetta Vincent, RN, St. Michael’s Hospital
• Received Grant funding from New Horizon to launch the Social Connect for Seniors Program.

Anyone interested in learning about JCAN can check:

Website:www.JCAN.life

Facebook:JCAN

YouTube:www.youtube/@jcancharity