This year’s Annual General Meeting included an awards ceremony. The recipients selected have all made remarkable impacts through their dedication and honour the legacies of those who have made exceptional past contributions to JFS’ mission. This year, five awards were presented.
Sara Ciacci Women Leadership Excellence Award celebrating a woman who embodies Sara’s spirit of dedication, empathy, and initiative, presented to Simone Kallner.
This is a new award created after Sara Ciacci’s (z”l) passing earlier this year. In many ways, Sara was an urban legend—a name synonymous with impact, compassion, and transformative change in our community. In 1984, Sara co-founded the Jewish Food Bank and established ASTEH, now renamed Sara’s House, an emergency shelter for women escaping violence.
Simone is known for her big heart, her ability to navigate challenging situations, and her unwavering empathy. But what truly sets her apart is her talent for inspiring others, taking bold initiatives, and stepping into uncharted territory to help those in need. Over the past eight years, she has been an invaluable part of JFS, serving on the development committee, co-chairing the food security committee, playing a key role in the emergency campaign during COVID, and contributing to the executive committee. Simone has done this all with humble and authentic leadership, driven not by recognition but by a deep passion to make a difference.
On receiving the inaugural Sara Ciacci Women Leadership Excellence Award, Simone says, “My time at JFS has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The people I have encountered—whether they are staff, volunteers, or clients—are all remarkably kind-hearted, uplifting, and united in their desire to contribute positively to both the agency and the wider community. Though I did not know Sara (z”l) personally, I had the privilege of working alongside those who did. They spoke of her as a pioneer and a leader who always found ways to transform adversity into positive change for others. To be honoured with this award in Sara’s name is humbling and inspiring. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to JFS's mission.”
Naomi Gropper Steiner Visionary Award for a past Board Member who went over and above their duties as a board member, presented to Stan Shaw.
Naomi Gropper Steiner was devoted to the mission of JFS and was one of the board members who originally started the JFS Innovators event. Her dedication to JFS underscores the power of grassroots efforts in driving meaningful change.
Stan served as a JFS board member from 2015 to 2021, during which his passion for food security led him to chair the Food Security Committee, guiding the transition from a food bank to The Kitchen food hub. After his board term, Stan remained engaged as co-chair of the committee with Simone Kallner and continued to advocate for the community and support JFS with innovative solutions. Thanks to his leadership, JFS has enhanced access to food programs through technology. Stan also volunteers regularly at our Richmond farm, helping grow food for JFS alongside others. Additionally, he serves as our cybersecurity advisor, always just a phone call away when challenges arise.
Paula Lenga Award for exemplary volunteer service, presented to Candice and Todd Thal.
This award was established in 1986 following the loss of a beloved and tireless volunteer to the agency - Paula Lenga. Paula gave hundreds of hours to the JFS volunteering behind the scenes to support the work of the agency. The Paula Lenga Award is given to an ordinary person(s) who does extraordinary things through volunteering at JFS.
For nearly a decade, Candice and Todd have been the driving force behind the Innovators Lunch, bringing creativity, commitment, and vision to every event. Last year, they elevated our first cocktail party fundraiser to new heights, raising 30% more funds and inspiring us through challenges with true leadership. Their resilience, passion, and unwavering belief in our mission have left an indelible mark on the organization.
Community Partner Award for an outstanding JFS partner organization, presented to Congregation Beth Israel.
JFS is very grateful to have so many wonderful organizations to work with each day, throughout the year. We couldn't do the work we do without them!
Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) supports JFS in so many ways, including our annual Project Isaiah Community Food Drive, preparing nourishing soup for the JFS Grocery Program, hosting the One Heart Dinners, and collaborating with us as well as Vancouver Talmud Torah to establish and maintain the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden. JFS and CBI share a dedication to fostering innovation and promoting community well-being.
Richard Fruchter Staff Recognition Award for a staff member who has gone above and beyond, presented to Karl Biernbrodt.
Richard Fruchter was JFS CEO from 2015-2019. After his retirement, this staff award was created to honour Richard and recognize staff members who have gone above and beyond in dedicating themselves to improving our community and the lives of our clients. The recipient is chosen based on nominations by their colleagues.
Karl started volunteering with JFS in 2012 and joined our staff in 2021. Karl is an incredibly valuable member of our team – we could not run the warehouse without him, and he can always be counted on to know where everything is. He always goes above and beyond, but what stands out most for those who work with Karl is the kindness that he shows when helping staff, volunteers, and clients.
Congratulations and a heartfelt Todah Rabah to you all! We are so lucky to have you as part of our JFS family.