The Canadian Zalmi Society is a nonprofit organization established in 2018 that addresses socioeconomic barriers in the community, focusing on education, poverty alleviation, and mental and physical well-being. Their programs encompass digital and financial literacy, weekly food hamper distribution, and sports programming, aiming to ensure inclusivity regardless of socioeconomic status. We spoke with Farah Rahmani, Vice President of the Canadian Zalmi Society, to gain insights into their initiatives. As Vice President, Farah plays a key role in shaping and implementing the organization’s strategies to achieve their overarching goals of bridging the digital divide, alleviating poverty, and promoting overall community well-being.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Canadian Zalmi Society, established in 2018, addresses socioeconomic barriers in our community, focusing on education, poverty alleviation, and mental and physical well-being. Our programs include digital and financial literacy, weekly food hamper distribution, and sports programming to ensure inclusivity regardless of socioeconomic status.
What problem does it aim to solve?
We aim to bridge the digital divide, alleviate poverty, and promote overall well-being within our community to create a strong foundation for collective flourishing. Our programs are designed with the community’s input to address barriers to access and fit the changing demographic.
When did you start/join it?
The Canadian Zalmi Society was officially established in 2018, and I have been actively engaged as one of its co-founders since its inception. This continuous involvement has allowed me to witness the growth and evolution of our organization from its earliest stages.
What made you want to get involved?
I became involved after researching and discovering a clear digital divide in specific Canadian populations. Recognizing the need, I collaborated with like-minded individuals, including our current president, Nasser Khan, to create this organization. Our first course of action was to develop our digital literacy course, which has been ongoing ever since.
What was the situation like when you started?
Initially, our focus was on literacy, but we broadened our scope over time by understanding our community and listening to their needs.
How has it changed since?
The influx of refugees has altered our demographic, prompting program adaptations, such as getting more translators and creating new programs altogether. Additionally, rising inflation has led to more families seeking assistance, primarily through our food hamper distribution initiatives.
What more needs to be done?
We must increase collaborative efforts to address the escalating challenges presented by rising inflation and support the most vulnerable members of our community. Strengthening partnerships among local organizations, businesses, and community members is essential for a more coordinated and efficient response to the evolving needs of those affected. Encouraging corporate social responsibility and resource-sharing among organizations and businesses would contribute to a comprehensive and sustainable approach to supporting vulnerable populations in our community.
How can our readers help?
Readers can contribute to our cause by making donations through our website. Additionally, we encourage those willing to give their time to join us as volunteers in various activities. Our philosophy revolves around “paying it forward,” and any support is highly valued.
Do you have any events coming up?
Our upcoming event is the Community Computer Literacy program, starting in February. This initiative is designed for low-income individuals who wish to acquire basic digital skills, with each participant receiving a free computer. Interested participants can easily register on our website. For questions regarding eligibility or assistance registering, you can email us here.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
We have immense admiration for the Calgary Foundation, an outstanding local charity with an incredible team. They support many programs across the city, and they deserve a feature.
