FUTFS Newsletter 49 (April 2025)

For You Telecare Family Service (FUTFS) provides counseling services and educational programs to help individuals and families overcome cultural, emotional, and psychological barriers. It also works with various community organizations to quickly address social issues and offers programs to support the integration of the Korean community into Canadian society and promote a healthy lifestyle.

To foster more active communication and engagement, we will open a KakaoTalk group chat. Once the invitation link is shared via email, those interested are welcome to join anytime. We look forward to your active participation and communication!

Programs & Services in April 2025

1. Peer Learning Circle

Seniors will gather regularly in groups each week for a set period, engaging in storytelling and volunteer activities that foster shared experiences and mutual support. Through discussions on topics of interest, as well as counseling and educational sessions, participants will enhance their communication and relationship-building skills, boosting their confidence while improving their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to develop community leadership, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and build meaningful networks that strengthen their connection to society. This initiative empowers seniors to become valued members of their communities and actively contribute to society.



2. Little Steps, Big Steps

‘Little Steps, Big Steps’ is a special opportunity for Grade 8–-12 students to grow together! This program not only helps you develop your academic skills and talents but also provides a space to share your thoughts, build friendships, and learn essential life skills. Take the first step today!

3. Family Funday & Fundraising Walkathon

FUTFS is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals and families of all backgrounds in overcoming cultural and psychological barriers through counseling services, educational programs, and volunteer activities. Our Family Day event is an annual family gathering and fundraising event hosted by us.

4. Family Growth (Family Counseling)

For the mental health and happiness of your precious family, if you wish to have preventive family counseling through a gentle conversation with experts, please apply. We are here for you. Applications are accepted at all times, so if you are interested, please pre-register through our website or via the QR code, and we will contact you.



5. Bliea Project

BLIEA Project supports seniors by promoting a balanced and fulfilling life. It focuses on enhancing quality of life through physical health initiatives, intellectual engagement, emotional support, and social participation. The project offers fitness classes, wellness workshops, lifelong learning, counseling, creative therapies, volunteer opportunities.

6. English Cafe

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.

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.



Speaking with Your Head — and Your Heart

We’ve all been there — saying something that’s true, but realizing later that it didn’t land the way we intended. Sometimes our words build connections. Other times, they quietly create distance. So what makes the difference? It’s not just what we say — but where we’re speaking from. Are we coming from a place of logic, or a place of care? Here’s an example. Your child brings home a lower grade than expected. It’s easy to respond with logic: “I told you that the study method wouldn’t work. That’s not how you should do it.” It might be true — but it can still leave them feeling discouraged or ashamed. Now try it from the heart: “That must’ve been frustrating. How do you feel about it?” “What do you think might help next time?” It’s a small shift — but it turns correction into conversation. You’re no longer judging from above. You’re standing beside them. Over the years, I’ve said the wrong thing more times than I can count. I’ve hurt people without meaning to. And I’ve learned: Words don’t just pass through the air. They land in someone’s heart. That’s why this idea matters so much to me — Not because I’ve always gotten it right, but because I’ve seen how powerful it can be to get it right just once. It’s not about speaking perfectly. It’s about showing up with the right intention. When we lead with empathy — when we ask, instead of assume — our words start to heal instead of harm. So here’s to trying again. To have kinder conversations. To warmer words. And until those words come more naturally — let’s keep practicing, together.

Andy Kim, FUTFS Volunteer