Embrace who you are, define their future, and change the world! The Breakaway Relief Foundation

BY PAUL JUNOR

In the seventeen years since the charitable organization Breakaway Relief Organization (BRF) has been around, it has had a major impact in the West Indian community. Sharon Joseph, who was born in Trinidad and Tobago and migrated to Canada, founded it in 2003. The community-led organization was birthed from her passion to reach out and help the most vulnerable in society, such as the elderly and youth who are in dire straits. She presently works in education as an educational worker for special needs children.

As Executive Director, Ms. Joseph is seeking to revitalize the organization to better serve the diverse and challenging needs of the community in this corona era.

She is passionate about BRF’s motto, “We believe everyone can embrace who they are, define their future, and can change the world.” This emphasizes the importance of building the social identity of adults and adolescents as an important one. She is looking for new board members who are committed to building a strong team of comforting, caring and compassionate team players.

In 2014, she was awarded an International Women Achievers Award (IWAA) for community work. This award was established “To acknowledge and honour the accomplishments and contributions of women world-wide.” In July 2015, she was selected to be a Pan Am Torchbearer for the first ever Pan Am/Para games in Toronto. 2016 was a special year for her. She was named as one the 100 Accomplished Canadian women, presented with the Black Star movement Unsung Hero’s Volunteer award, and the Social Justice Dudley Laws Advocacy Award.

The goal of her non-profit charitable organization is focused on ensuring that the elderly and youth are able to obtain social and recreational programming in the Greater Toronto Area (www.breakawayrelieffoundadation.com).

Its mission is, “to provide resources to those in need and help our valued community members thrive no matter their socio-economic background. By addressing the important needs of individuals from various demographics, we can help people lead positive lives and teach their full potential. We are committed to providing inclusive, interactive, and accessible programs that make a difference in the life of seniors, and youth. With our assistance we hope to promote independence, a sense of belonging to a supportive community, while fostering a sense of purpose in life.”

Breakaway has been able to fulfil its mission over the years by being involved in diverse community initiatives such as:  feeding the poor, raising funds for the poor, and providing kids with back to school supplies.

On its website it states its mandate is “to engage in collaboration with community members and partners so that we may service our community needs on all levels. While some obstacles are unavoidable, BRF wants those who seek our help to rise above what challenges may be holding them back. With over fifteen years of dedicated community work, our vision is that no one be left behind or forgotten because of limited resources.”

BRF is currently located at 508 Oakwood Ave in Toronto. The organization is always looking for volunteers. Anyone who is interested can contact the organization on its website www.breakawayrelieffoundation, or contact them at 416-635-1457. Online donations can be also be made through PayPal and a tax receipt will be provided.

They are poised to play a significant role in the future of the African-Canadian community as it continues its mission and vision to enhance the quality of life, health, safety and well-being of those who are marginalized and forgotten.