JVS Toronto, at Sheppard/Victoria Park, seeks One-On-One Mentors to offer newcomers an introduction to Canadian workplace culture/industry trends and provide them with support and information in areas such as job search strategies, professional licensing, credential and education requirements, professional language and terminology, networking creation and assistance.

The Creative Institute for Toronto Young (CITY) Leaders is seeking passionate individuals who are interested in becoming a CITY Leaders mentor.  

“United We Can…United, we can make a difference, United, we can build a better future, United, we can change the world” Frances Lankin 

CITY Leader supports young people from a wide range of backgrounds to become more effective leaders and gain new skills, knowledge, tools and insights into their leadership potential.  Through mentorship you support the further growth and empowerment of tomorrow’s leaders, educators, advocates and decision makers. The opportunity to be matched with a mentor is a vital aspect of a CITY Leaders participant’s journey as it enhances their confidence, outlook, capacity and thus their ability to grow into their full potential as leaders.    

Interested individuals are welcome from all professions but must have an expertise which falls under one of the following groups:

• Investing in Leadership
• Planning and Implementing Change
• Understanding Organizations and Communities    

Should you require more information please feel free to contact: http://unitedwaytoronto.com/whatWeDo/CITYleaders.php  

Last month, as part of the first GIVEADAMN Day of the year, I joined my fellow GenNexters for a tour of Inspirations Studio, a part of Sistering (a women’s support centre).

The work Sistering is doing with the studio is truly, as its name suggests, inspiring. They teach women, many of whom already have a creative knack, to hone their skills in ceramics, provide them a supportive environment where their skills can thrive and then show them how to market their work so they can turn a profit.

The women at the studio have found themselves at Sistering for a number of reasons but ultimately, at some point fell on hard times. Many had jobs, were self-sufficient and/or had families to support, and lost their jobs because of the economy or unforeseen injury or illness. Some of us are fortunate to have a support system of friends and family to assist in bad times, but many people don’t, so when something bad happens, its nice to know that places like Sistering exist to help women get back on their feet.

Once involved with the studio, many of the women never leave, returning daily to work on their craft, socialize with other artists and get their work ready for sale. Many have a steady flow of repeat customers and handle custom orders (think wedding favours, custom gifts) and the money they make allows them to pay for their materials and put some money in their pockets.

Best of all, the studio has given them confidence and a support system, something we all need from time to time.

Need some new mugs, serving platters, casserole dishes  or vases that are dishwasher and oven safe? Go to www.inspirationsstudio.ca and be sure to check out the Mother's Day Studio sale that runs from May 7th to May 9th.

Youth Assisting Youth seeks Youth Peer Mentors for North York, Etobicoke, Brampton and York Region.

Mandarin speaking male volunteers sought for Downtown Toronto.

 Special need for female mentors in South Etobicoke.

Do you think you can build a child's self esteem and contribute to their success? Yes, you can make a difference and inspire their juniors between the ages of 6 -15. Provide support, coaching and leadership. Participate in conversation, programs, excursions and activities. Attend FREE attractions. Training provided.

If you’re age 16 - 29, available 3 hours a week and have good communication and coaching skills.

Contact:  Paula da Rocha at 416-932-1919, Ext. 234 or email rdarocha@yay.org