About | JCAN

About JCAN

JCAN is a Toronto-based, Black-led charitable organization dedicated to improving health and wellness in Black communities and other underserved populations. Our work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves access to support, connection, and opportunities that promote wellbeing across every stage of life from youth to seniors.

We address the social determinants of health by creating culturally relevant programs and trusted spaces where people can build relationships, access resources, and feel a true sense of belonging. Through community engagement, education, and social support, JCAN helps reduce isolation, strengthen resilience, and empower individuals and families to thrive.

At JCAN, we honor culture, uplift community voices, and build meaningful connections that support healthier futures one person, one family, and one community at a time.

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 We acknowledge the historical and ongoing systemic barriers faced by Black and other underserved communities. We work to address these barriers through a shared purpose and collaboration with like-minded organizations, understanding the importance of supporting and uplifting the communities we serve.

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 Black and other underserved populations requires a multi-faceted approach. This is why collaboration and partnerships are essential—they allow us to work together to better serve our community’s needs.. 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

Jacqueline Chen

President

Jacqueline brings over 30 years of nursing and health leadership experience, with a strong focus on healthcare equity and quality improvement. She serves as Senior Clinical Director, Unity Health Toronto where she drives strategic planning and operational excellence in primary care. Jacqueline earned her MSN from Athabasca University, and holds advanced certifications in senior-level change management, executive leadership and quality improvement from the University of Toronto. Jacqueline is deeply committed to fostering equitable care and empowering underserved communities.

Dr. Era Mae Ferron

Vice President

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.

Agatha McPhee

Treasurer

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.

Dr. Claudette Holloway

Executive Director

Dr. Claudette Holloway is a transformational nursing leader and advocate for health equity. As Executive Director of JCAN, she brings over 25 years of experience advancing culturally responsive care and strengthening supports for Black seniors and communities across the GTA.

A former President of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), Dr. Holloway championed systemic change, anti-racism, and leadership development in nursing. Guided by compassion and community, she leads with the belief that “we don’t just provide programs — we create space for people to be seen, valued, and heard.”

Dennis Isaacs

Seniors Representative

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.

Michelle Salfarlie

Michelle is an experienced administration and operations professional with over 20 years in the medical and post-secondary sectors. In her current role at Sheridan College, she supports the development of inclusive, innovative learning programs and excels in streamlining processes and managing learning systems.

A strong advocate for equity and community engagement, Michelle brings expertise in stakeholder relations, project coordination, and program delivery. She holds a Career and Work Counsellor Diploma from George Brown College and is pursuing further studies in Adult Learning with Technology at Ontario Tech University. As a first-time board member, she looks forward to contributing to JCAN’s mission and impact.

Michelle Carter

Chair of Fundraising

Michelle Carter is a senior Human Resources executive with over 30 years of leadership across arts and culture, technology, retail, and professional sports. As Vice President of Human Resources & Organizational Culture at TO Live, she leads talent development, employee experience, and organizational growth, including advancing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility initiatives. Michelle has held senior roles with Cash App, Amazon Canada, Bed Bath & Beyond, and the Toronto Blue Jays/Rogers Centre. She is committed to building equitable workplaces and nurturing strong, values-driven leadership.

Dontae Bryan

Dontae Bryan is an emerging leader passionate about advancing health equity in underserved communities. Currently pursuing studies in technology, he brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to innovation. Dontae has volunteered with seniors and youth, and is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where young leaders can grow. His work with JCAN reflects his pride in community and his commitment to service.