Over the past year, we at Ometz have been quietly involved with the Director of Youth Protection, Batshaw Youth and Family Centres, and other government agencies to inquire into the alleged abuse of children by a sect known as Lev Tahor. Many of you have probably read about this in the newspapers or heard news items on TV or radio about this case.

Ometz is mandated to look after the welfare of the most vulnerable in our community and children at risk are at the top of our list. In this dossier, our expertise was sought out by a variety of governmental agencies. Our professionals responded quickly, effectively and with great cultural sensitivity, given the unusual social and linguistic challenges of this particular case. The investigation is far from being concluded, but we are ready and able to provide whatever might be needed to assist our partners and to protect our children.

A perfect segue to our annual fundraiser, A Chance to Shine, is once again to be held under the patronage of Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Black, on April 8 at Place des Arts. We will be welcoming THE SILHOUETTES®, 1st runners up on America’s Got Talent – a group of kids aged 6-22, who tell stories and inspire audiences world-wide through dance. Many of these kids themselves battle serious health challenges via dance as therapy. All of the proceeds raised at this event will help Ometz support kids at risk in our community – kids like Jamie.

Jamie, aged 14, lives with his single mom and 2 sisters, aged 11 and 7. His father disappeared after losing the family business as a result of a gambling addiction. Jamie was flagged by one of our school counsellors after he was accused of bullying a fellow student. Counselling revealed a terrified young man, who was watching what he felt was the disintegration of his family, and blaming himself for not being able to step up and manage as the ‘man of the family’. His grades were slipping badly.

Jamie was referred to our Maximize Youth Potential program whose primary objective is to break the cycle of poverty by encouraging, supporting and working with adolescents and young adults from high-risk families, to ensure that they complete high school and enter post-secondary studies. Ometz was able to offer Jamie a variety of services including:
• an after-school tutorial/homework program to help him with study techniques needed to succeed academically;
• supportive counselling – to discuss his personal life issues, goals and barriers;
• a mentor who has become a role model and Jamie’s no. 1 principal cheer leader.
We are counting on all of you to help us help countless other kids like Jamie.
Plan on joining us for this great evening for a great cause!

We look forward to meeting you in person at A Chance to Shine on April 8 at Place des Arts to see THE SILHOUETTES®!!!

Gail and Howard