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JSH works with other local Canadian community-based organizations to ink issues and organizations and people in common causes of international co-operation and social justice. Events such as speakers, film nights, community dinners, and readings motivate and inspire the community to learn more and to become involved in issues both globally and locally. A highlight of the JSH education programme is the annual Ganley Lecture, which brings a global voice to Peterborough to address current social, economic and political global issues. Lecturers range from academics to activists – all have ties to Jamaica or international co-operation issues; their topics have varied from global economics to addressing the needs of at-risk youth. The event is usually held in November each year in Peterborough. In April 2010, to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Jamaican Self-Help, JSH brought to Ontario the St. Peter Claver Ensemble, a children’s performance group from Kingston, Jamaica. The Ensemble stayed in Peterborough and Ottawa over the course of 10 days. Their time in Canada included public and school performances by the Ensemble, and time for the Ensemble members to experience daily life in Canada as they were hosted by local primary schools and families in Peterborough and Ottawa. This tour was a wonderful opportunity for Canadian children, their families and communities to learn more about Jamaica and Jamaicans, and for Jamaican children to experience another culture. JSH offers a range of volunteer opportunities that give Canadians a way to be directly involved in global change. Volunteers sit on the Board of Directors and JSH committees; they help with educational and fundraising events; and they participate in a range of activities. Volunteers in leadership roles are offered training opportunities, such as attending national and provincial conferences on international development issues, or participating in JSH organizational activities which aim to include those with different interests or capacities. By involving volunteers in a variety of ways, JSH is able to benefit from new ideas, innovations, and creativity of a broad segment of the community. If you are interested in volunteering with JSH, please contact the office at (705) 743-1671.
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