The Ontario Jewish Archives received a donation through the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto in 2006 to support a series of six workshops on creating virtual family trees. The funding was provided by Lynda Weinrib, who indicated that when she saw the opportunity advertised in the Foundation brochure, she immediately wanted to support it in honour of her grandfather, who had a true appreciation for Jewish history.

The workshops were held in three different locations in Toronto -- downtown, mid-town and North York -- in order to accommodate community members from across the city. Their intent was to teach participants how to use the new Jewish genealogical databases on the Internet to conduct searches into their roots. Participants were then introduced to a new software product, called Family Tree Maker, to create sophisticated family trees. The instructor, Bill Gladstone, a writer for the Canadian Jewish News and avid genealogist, conducted the half day workshops.

The course is open and accessible to everyone in the community. The cost is $50 for individuals and $75 per couple, or for two family members registering together. The price includes a free Family Tree Maker software package.

If you are interested in registering for a future workshop, please contact the OJA at 416-635-2883 ext. 5170 or e-mail us at oja1@ujafed.org.