About | JCAN

About JCAN

At JCAN, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of Black communities and other underserved populations, with a special focus on older adults. As a Toronto-based not-for-profit charitable organization, our mission is to address the social determinants of health by providing culturally relevant support and fostering a strong, inclusive community.

We strive to combat social isolation among seniors through tailored programs and engaging social events. By creating spaces where cultural heritage is honored and connections are built, we aim to enrich the lives of those we serve and cultivate a network of support that truly makes a difference.

Our Philosophy

Vision

Our vision is to be the leading charity providing culturally relevant health program, services, and education to Black and other underserved populations.

Mission

Our mission is to improve the health outcomes of Black and other underserved populations.

Values

Giving Back Acknowledging the historical and ongoing systemic barriers that Blacks and other underserved populations. JCAN works to address those barriers through a shared purpose with like-minded organizations. JCAN understands the importance of supporting and uplifting the communities.

Giving Health We prioritize the provision of healthcare programs in collaboration with community partners and advocate for resources to promote wellness and address healthcare disparities among Blacks, and other underserved populations.

Collaborative Philanthropy We recognize that addressing the complex challenges facing the Black and other underserved populations requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond the scope of any one organization, collaboration and partnerships are crucial in addressing the needs of our community. We know that Black and underserved communities have a deep understanding of their own needs and can provide valuable insights and perspectives to guide philanthropic efforts.

Board of Directors

President

Jacqueline Chen

Jacqueline brings over 25 years of nursing and health leadership experience, with a strong focus on healthcare equity and quality improvement. She serves as Clinical Leader Manager at St. Michael’s Hospital Academic Family Health Team, where she drives strategic planning and operational excellence in primary care. Jacqueline earned her BSN from Ryerson University and MSN from Athabasca University, and holds advanced certifications in senior-level change management and quality improvement from the University of Toronto. A Certified Health Executive and Diabetes Educator, Jacqueline is deeply committed to fostering equitable care and empowering underserved communities.

Vice President

Dr. Era Mae Ferron

Era Mae is a dedicated healthcare leader and research manager with extensive experience overseeing workplace violence prevention initiatives and advancing community health research focused on Indigenous families. With a Ph.D. in nursing from the University of Toronto, she has combined her academic insight with her passion for improving healthcare environments. Driven by a commitment to knowledge translation, Era Mae strives to make complex healthcare concepts clear and actionable for diverse audiences, ensuring that vital information reaches those who need it most.

Treasurer

Agatha McPhee

Agatha is an accomplished accounting professional with an MBA, CPA, CGA, and FCCA, bringing extensive experience in financial statement preparation, analysis, budgeting, and cost accounting across both profit and non-profit sectors. Her dedication to community service is reflected in her roles on various Boards of Trustees, including the United Way of Toronto, Juliette’s Place, and as a member of the Doors Open Committee with the City of Markham. Passionate about making a positive impact, Agatha is committed to giving back to the community through her expertise and service.

Chair, Fundraising

Denyse Dawes

Denyse is a seasoned healthcare administrative professional with over 20 years of experience. She holds certifications in medical terminology and office administration and has consistently demonstrated her passion for healthcare through her versatile skills. For over a decade, Denyse has also served as an event coordinator at DSI Fun Photos, creating empowering experiences for students and women in Black communities. Her philanthropic work includes fundraising for individuals living with disabilities, supporting scholarships, and helping teenage girls attend summer camps. Denyse’s dedication to both seniors and youth reflects her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in her community.

Chair, Education & Student Engagement

Dr. Crystal Garvey

Crystal, a PhD graduate from Queen’s University, has dedicated her career to exploring how bullying affects students' mental health and highlighting the roles of intersectionality and racism. With over 20 years of nursing experience in Emergency and Mental Health Nursing, she currently teaches in the BScN program at Durham College. Dr. Garvey actively supports equitable and inclusive communities through her roles with the Black Student Success Network and various equity-focused committees. She conducts impactful community research with organizations like Big Brother Big Sister and REST Centres, focusing on mental health and anti-racism. Passionate about knowledge dissemination, she engages in keynotes, podcasts, and educational presentations on Black Mental Health and equity, and is working on a mental health documentary titled Silent Voices, set for release in 2024.

Director, Lead Facilitator of Social Connect for Seniors ©

Dennis Isaacs

Dennis, now retired after a distinguished forty-plus-year career as an Engineering Designer in the Oil & Gas Industry, has dedicated his post-career years to meaningful community service. He is currently enrolled in a Liberal Arts program with a focus on Copyediting and Proofreading at George Brown College. Dennis is also the lead facilitator of the JCAN's Social Connect Program for Seniors ©, where his commitment to promoting active and socially connected aging shines. His deep understanding of the importance of these factors for maintaining healthy aging drives his passion for supporting and enriching the lives of fellow seniors.

Chair, Membership

Scherrie-Ann Richards

Scherrie-Ann Richards, BSc., EMBA, RPN, brings over 20 years of diverse experience to her roles in nursing, education, and youth mentorship. Her transition from corporate settings to bedside nursing and academia has profoundly influenced senior care through compassionate and culturally sensitive practices. In her corporate role, she improved patient access to medications and chronic disorder management. As a frontline RPN during the pandemic, she led safety initiatives while providing compassionate care. In the classroom, she has developed and enhanced the curriculum for the Personal Support Worker Program, creating an engaging learning environment. Scherrie-Ann also partners with Achieve Potential to support marginalized youth in the Greater Toronto Area.

Chair, Communications

Shayna Wedderburn

Shayna, driven by a deep commitment to community development and equity, leverages her Master’s Degree in Urban Planning to make a significant impact. Her career, enriched by extensive experience in policy development, community engagement, and strategic planning across Canada, highlights her unwavering dedication to supporting underrepresented voices and championing inclusivity. Shayna’s specialization in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion underscores her mission to promote fairness and drive transformative change. Through her work, she continues to foster meaningful connections and create lasting improvements, reflecting her role as a catalyst for positive change in both her community and beyond.

Director

Israel Hunter

Israel, principal of his bookkeeper practice, brings over 35 years of expertise in the field. Proficient in accounting software such as QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and Xero, Israel's commitment extends beyond his practice. His service on boards including the African Caribbean Kidney Association and the Place of Praise & Cultural Centre highlights his dedication to community advancement and his passion for supporting the well-being of others.

Director

Yvonne Whitfiled

Yvonne is a dedicated public health professional with over 30 years of experience, renowned for her impactful contributions at both local and provincial levels of government. Holding a Master of Public Health from the University of Guelph, Yvonne has developed a deep understanding of health determinants and a broad range of public health programs focused on health promotion and disease prevention. Her expertise extends to policy development and creating guidance documents, while her passion for training and knowledge exchange has led to significant initiatives bridging federal, provincial, and local governments. Celebrated within the public health community, Yvonne's commitment to volunteerism began at age 14 with the American Red Cross and includes roles such as coordinator for the African Caribbean Diabetes Prevention Program and leadership positions in her faith community.