FUTFS Newsletter 37 (April 2024)

For You Telecare Family Service (FUTFS) assists individuals and families from all walks of life to overcome cultural, emotional, and psychological barriers through a wide range of counselling and educational services and programs. In collaboration with other social service organizations, we raise awareness of social issues and support clients in the community through the progression of a healthy lifestyle and gradual integration into Canadian society.The projects we provide at FUTFS are for anyone who is willing or interested in participating. Anyone can easily register through our website (www.futfs.org).

Programs & Services in Apr 2024

1. The 41th Counselling Education & Volunteer Training Program

Location: Yonge Centre Plus, Unit 221 (200 Finch Ave W, North York, ON M2R 3W4)

Date: April 9 - May 28, 2024, 12:30PM-2:30pm (Every Tuesday)

This program educates participants on counseling basics and the proper attitudes for volunteering. Completing the program grants participants a certificate, enabling them to engage in various volunteer activities. It includes lectures by expert speakers and small-group workshops covering counseling concepts, ethical responsibilities, and practical skills. Through interactive workshops, participants enhance coping abilities, emotional expression, and readiness for effective societal contributions as volunteers.



2. Family Fun Day & Health Walkathon

Location: Sunnybrook Park - Picnic Area #5 (1132 Leslie St, Toronto, ON)

Date: May 25, 2024 9:30am-2pm

Our Family Day event is an annual family gathering and fundraising event hosted by us. It's a great opportunity for everyone, from young children to seniors, to participate in various activities together and enjoy quality time with their families. We hope that many people will join us to share the preciousness of family and love, and to connect with other families.

3. English Cafe

Location: 200 Finch Ave W, North York, ON M2R 3W4, Unit 221

Date: 10:30am-12pm, Every Tuesday

FUTFS holds an English cafe class every Tuesday from 10:30 to 12:00 to improve volunteers' upgraded English speaking skills. Participants in this class will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face at the Young Center Plus to chat and speak English. The class is led by Instructor Heather Sheildrick.

4. Wellness Group for Parents

Through a parent-focused focus group, participants aim to share experiences, gain insights, and address mental health issues. Witnessing others facing similar crises fosters stability and a sense of belonging. Through group therapy, participants provide mutual support, gain insights, and enhance connections.



5. Youth Talent Show

Location: Edithvale Community Centre (131 Finch Ave W. M2N 2H8)

Date: August 6-18th (for 9 days)

Youth Talent Show allows youths to showcase their unique abilities, thereby boosting their self-esteem and confidence, which are vital life skills. Through diverse experiences, they can interact with peers and leaders, receiving feedback and developing social resilience skills.

6. Mind and Motion

Location: Edithvalue Community Centre (131 Finch Ave W. M2N 2H8)

Date: June 15th, 11am-4pm

This is a two-week summer youth volunteer program to enhance social and leadership skills while providing insight into future career paths. Participants engage in activities fostering emotional expression, empathy, and teamwork over a two-day training session, and a graduation ceremony at the end.

7. Counseling Service

FUTFS offers a range of counseling services for those in distress, career, or in need of emotional support. We provide counselling services as all possible ways as possible such as Zoom, email, phone for any regions in Canada, and additionally provide in-person counselling for Toronto only such as telephone counseling, individual counseling, family counseling, outreach and more.



Scent of Thoughts

I want to explore how the unknown future will impact me. I've navigated through uncertain times as CEO since 1998, facing challenges like the IMF, financial crises, and pandemics, which have toughened my resilience. Life throws natural disasters and personal dilemmas at us, and I've experienced navigating through them amidst a flurry of activity.

Being a mother was entirely new to me, despite managing social aspects somehow. My mind was filled with worries about my children's education, with the persistent thought of "What should I do?" leading to compromises. In hindsight, amidst our busy schedules, our children received only basic education, lacking time spent together or memorable experiences. COVID-19 served as a pause, prompting a significant decision to move to Toronto, Canada, for their education.

The Toronto life began without preparation, and there were many trials and errors. Somewhere along the way, I started raising and living with my children in my own way. I think from my own difficulties and also from the perspective of the child. Children are embarking on a journey towards a very long life. Until the point where independent life begins, children are precious guests to us. We will treat them with care and when they become college students and professionals, they will live independently.

As I prepare to let go, I'm filled with hope for my children's healthy development and successful careers. My ultimate goal is to return to my professional role, armed with renewed purpose and a deeper appreciation for the balance between career and family life.

Mejeng Oh, FUTFS Volunteer