Please join us as we reflect on the past years accomplishments, look to the future of the SJCC and pay tribute to some outstanding community members.
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 • 3 Nisan 5785
7:00 pm • Soloway JCC, 21 Nadolny Sachs Pvt
All are welcome to attend!
Mazel Tov to Our Award Winners!
Grossman Klein Teen Leadership Award
Presented to a teen who has shown outstanding dedication and service to the Jewish community throughout their teenage years.
Natalie Stewart
Natalie Stewart is a Grade 11 student at Woodroffe High School who is deeply devoted to her Judaism and the Jewish community. Over the years, she has been a prominent member of Temple Israel’s youth community, eagerly stepping into leadership roles whenever the opportunity arises.
As an active and engaged participant in FROSTY (Federation of Reform Temple Youth), Natalie regularly attends events, ensuring that everyone feels included and welcomed. Her dedication to fostering a strong Jewish community was evident when she helped lead Havdalah at one of their gatherings.
Natalie founded the Jewish Student Union (JSU) at Woodroffe High School, demonstrating resilience and determination in a post-October 7 political climate. As JSU president, she has worked tirelessly to increase membership despite challenges such as posters being removed or vandalized. Undeterred, she continues to create a welcoming space for Jewish students and advocates for their presence within the school community. Additionally, she has actively participated in weekly peace marches in support of Israel and the hostage releases.
Natalie’s leadership qualities reach far beyond the Jewish community. She is an engaged member of the OCDSB Model UN, attending monthly meetings and ensuring that Jewish values are represented. She teaches cross-country skiing to young children and is working toward completing her lifeguard training. Her passion for the outdoors is reflected in her involvement in the school’s outdoor education club.
Beyond her academic and leadership commitments, Natalie has a passion for musical theater. She performed at the NAC last year for the Cappies Awards, showcasing her talent and dedication to the arts.
In the summer of 2024, Natalie spent her first season at Camp George as a CIT, where she fully embraced the experience of immersing herself in Jewish identity and building meaningful connections. She is excited to return this summer as a counselor.
Ben Karp Soloway JCC Volunteer Service Award
Presented to a volunteer who best exemplifies communal ideals and sets an ongoing example for others.
Inbal Marcovitch
Inbal has made a significant and lasting contribution to the Soloway JCC through her visionary creation and leadership of the HaKibbutz program, a vibrant educational initiative for Hebrew-speaking children. Recognizing a gap in the community, Inbal dedicated herself to building a nurturing and inclusive space where children can connect to their Israeli heritage, strengthen their Hebrew language skills, and form meaningful friendships.
With help from a JFO Microgrant, Inbal together with the SJCC and JFS, launched a 4-week pilot program at the SJCC which was a huge success with 46 Hebrew-speaking kids participating. Riding on the success of that a 25 week program was developed to begin in October 2023. HaKibbutz has flourished since then, and Inbal’s passion hasn’t stopped. She has provided programming for parents in the community. She has volunteered tirelessly to find guest speakers and other ways to support Israelis post-October 7. She worked with WZO who have provided funds for family programming. Inbal is the backbone of HaKibbutz and the community she has created.
Her passion, creativity, and deep commitment to education have laid the foundation for a program that fosters cultural pride and a sense of belonging among families. Under Inbal’s leadership, HaKibbutz has not only enriched the lives of the children who participate but has also strengthened the JCC’s role as a hub for diverse cultural programming.
Through her innovative spirit and dedication, Inbal has helped create a community within a community, leaving a lasting impact that will continue to benefit Hebrew-speaking families for years to come.
Inbal’s involvement in the community extends well beyond her leadership of the HaKibbutz program. She is a natural connector, consistently helping others navigate community resources and establish meaningful relationships with relevant organizations.
