Big Brothers Big Sisters of Barrie and District
For over 40 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Barrie and District has been creating life-changing friendships. Originally focused on one-to-one relationships between Bigs and Littles, this beloved organization has grown to offer a variety of programs serving boys and girls in numerous ways.
One such program is In-School Mentoring, which has evolved over the years. Jeff became a mentor in 2009, finding immense satisfaction and a renewed sense of purpose through this role. As a community businessman, giving back his time has been a wonderful way for Jeff to experience the joy of childhood once again.
Being a mentor isn’t about homework or tutoring—it’s about having fun! This school-based program matches volunteers with children (grade 3+) in a one-to-one relationship focused on fun and friendship. Each week, Jeff spent one hour with his little guy, engaging in activities or simply hanging out and talking. The program runs during the school year from September to June, making every moment filled with intense fun and purpose.
Jeff highly recommends this experience to any adult who can make the time. The organization is always looking for mature individuals ready to enhance their lives in unimaginable ways.
Children's Aid Society
Jeff Walters Jewellers Supports Children's Aid - Snap Article
Child welfare is a community concern rather than an isolated occurrence. Since 1894, the Simcoe County Children's Aid Society has been serving the community, offering a wide range of services to individuals and families. While many associate Children's Aid with investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect and placing children in alternative care arrangements, their work extends far beyond these critical functions.
In October 2012, Jeff Walters toured behind the scenes with the Foundation Director to explore the many roles the Children's Aid Foundation of Simcoe County plays in helping abused and neglected children lead happier, safer lives. "Look where we are in this picture," Jeff says. "It looks like a normal kitchen we all wake up to, but for many youth living on their own, learning the basic skills to cook and prepare food for themselves and their child is not something they've picked up on the streets. Here, they receive one-on-one counseling to help them feel comfortable and responsible as homemakers."
You can learn more about the Society online at www.simcoecas.com.
Seasons Centre for Grieving Children
The Seasons Centre for Grieving Children is founded on the belief that every child deserves the chance to grieve in a supportive and understanding environment. Jeff Walters had the honor of taking a private tour led by the Office Manager and Special Events Coordinator. The visit to the Games Room was magical. “Helping children release all their energy in a safe environment, among new friends and buddies, is a rare opportunity for these kids. The various games are structured to encourage teamwork. How wonderful! No one is left alone.”
Royal Victoria Hospital
Dreams Realized at Jeff Walters Jewellers
When Jeff Walters’ mother passed away from cancer in 2011, he sought to honor her memory in two heartfelt ways. First, he brought to life a dream she had shared with him about opening a giftware boutique. Second, he used this boutique to raise funds to support other families battling cancer. In November 2011, Marcia’s Boutique became a reality, with over 200 customers, hospital representatives, and public officials attending its grand opening.
The boutique offers exceptional gift items to help families celebrate special occasions, while also contributing to a greater cause. Around the same time, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) achieved its dream with the opening of the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. After more than a decade of planning, fundraising, and construction, RVH now provides comprehensive cancer care to our region, eliminating the need for patients to travel long distances for life-saving treatment.
Treatment Consulting Room at RVH in Honor of Marcia Walters
In honor of his mother, Jeff dedicated a Treatment Consulting Room at RVH in her name. In September 2012, Jeff received a private tour of the new state-of-the-art building from Eric Dean, CEO of the Foundation. During this tour, Jeff had the privilege of placing the plaque outside the dedicated treatment room. “My mom would be so delighted to know that her memory is and will continue to support other families in need,” Jeff said. “Her natural inclination to serving others in the community remains alive and well.” Jeff invites everyone to visit Marcia’s Boutique to share in this dream. The boutique not only offers unique and creative gifts but also serves as a place for those wishing to share their stories about loved ones who have battled cancer.
Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre & Jeff Walters Jewellers
Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, an acute care community hospital in Barrie, Ontario, has seen tremendous growth over the past decade, now boasting a state-of-the-art facility. In June 2012, RVH celebrated the largest capital fundraising project in Simcoe Muskoka history, raising $450 million for the new Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. This new center ensures that cancer patients from central and northern Ontario no longer need to travel to Toronto for treatment.
In memory of his mother, Jeff Walters Jewellers showcases Marcia’s Boutique, a unique giftware and high-fashion jewelry department. A portion of the proceeds from Marcia’s Boutique is donated to the Royal Victoria Cancer Centre, funding a patient assessment room that bears a plaque in memory of Marcia Walters.
Gilda's Club
Choosing which charities to support is a critical decision for Jeff Walters Jewellers, reflecting their thoughtful approach as a community sponsor. Their involvement with Gilda's Club is driven by the belief that no one should face cancer alone. Cancer has touched all our lives in some way, affecting our mothers, fathers, children, and friends. Gilda's Club offers moments of fun, laughter, and cheer, standing strong against cancer. To learn more about the programs and support available, visit www.gildasclubsimcoemuskoka.org. The RED DOOR is open to YOU!
All Love is Great Love
At Jeff Walters Jewellers, we proudly stand with all communities, celebrating love in all its glorious forms and raising awareness to combat homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of discrimination—because hate has no place here, but fabulous jewelry does! As enthusiastic supporters of Barrie Pride, we actively participate in events and initiatives that honor, protect, and value diversity. We’re committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and joyous atmosphere for everyone to find their perfect symbol of love. Remember, at Jeff Walters Jewellers, ALL LOVE IS GREAT LOVE—because love, like our diamonds, is forever.
- Jeff Walters