The Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto’s special interest groups (SIGs) and networking forums allow members with particular interests to share knowledge, ideas and information. Our SIGs help you connect with other members of JGS Toronto who have similar goals and challenges. Multiple SIGs have been established: Global Heritage (geographic focus, including Poland, Ukraine, and others), Software (MyHeritage and Family Tree Maker), DNA, and Artificial Intelligence.

Although our SIG meetings were historically held in person, we have now moved our SIG programs to virtual meetings and presentations in order to better serve our local and global membership.

Most special interest groups meetings are open to the public, however workshops and special presentations may be restricted to members of JGS Toronto. Meeting dates are established by the SIG leaders. Please be sure to check the JGS Toronto Event Calendar for dates and times and watch for e-mailed announcements of meetings.

Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group

Description

Link

Lithuania-Latvia-Belarus Special Interest Group

The Lithuania-Latvia-Belarus Special Interest Group (SIG) (JGST) is dedicated to researching Jewish ancestry specifically in Lithuania, Latvia, and Belarus. These regions hold significant historical and cultural importance for Jewish communities, and the SIG aims to uncover and preserve their rich heritage.

Key aspects and activities of the Lithuania-Latvia-Belarus SIG include:

  1. Historical and Geographical Focus: Exploring the history, migration patterns, and settlement of Jewish communities across Lithuania, Latvia, and Belarus, including major cities, smaller towns, and shtetls.
  2. Genealogical Research: Providing resources, guidance, and support for members interested in tracing their Jewish roots in Lithuania, Latvia, and Belarus. This includes accessing archival records, utilizing specialized databases, and conducting family interviews.
  3. Collaboration and Networking: Facilitating connections among members who share a common interest in Lithuanian, Latvian, and Belarusian Jewish genealogy. The SIG fosters a supportive environment for sharing research findings, exchanging insights, and collaborating on projects.
  4. Educational Initiatives: Organizing workshops, lectures, webinars, and inviting guest speakers who are experts in Lithuanian, Latvian, and Belarusian Jewish genealogy. These educational sessions cover topics such as research methodologies, archival resources, and historical context.

Overall, the Lithuania-Latvia-Belarus SIG at JGST serves as a vital resource and community for individuals interested in exploring, documenting, and celebrating the history and genealogy of Jewish communities in Lithuania, Latvia, and Belarus. By engaging with this SIG, members can deepen their understanding of their heritage and contribute to the broader efforts of Jewish genealogical research and preservation.

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected].

DNA Special Interest Group

The JGST DNA Special Interest Group (SIG), is a community within the larger organization dedicated to exploring genealogical research using DNA testing methods. This group focuses specifically on individuals of Jewish ancestry, leveraging the power of genetic testing to uncover familial connections, trace lineages, and enhance traditional genealogical research.

Participants in the JGST DNA SIG likely engage in activities such as:

  1. Educational Workshops: Hosting sessions to educate members on the basics of genetic genealogy, interpreting DNA results, and using various tools and databases effectively.
  2. Collaborative Research: Facilitating collaboration among members to share findings, compare DNA results, and work together to solve genealogical puzzles.
  3. Expert Guidance: Inviting experts in genetic genealogy to speak or consult with members, providing insights into advanced DNA analysis techniques.
  4. Support and Networking: Offering a supportive environment where members can share their genealogical journeys, seek advice, and build connections with others who share their research interests.

Overall, the JGST DNA SIG serves as a valuable resource for Jewish individuals interested in exploring their family history through DNA testing, combining modern scientific methods with traditional genealogical research practices.

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected].

Poland Special Interest Group

The JGST Poland Special Interest Group (SIG) dedicated to researching Jewish ancestry specifically in Poland. This group focuses on the rich historical and cultural heritage of Jewish communities that once thrived in Poland, utilizing various genealogical resources and methods to uncover and preserve family histories. Key aspects of the JGST Poland SIG include:

  1. Historical Context: Delving into the history of Jewish communities in Poland, including their migrations, settlements, and contributions to Polish society before World War II and beyond.
  2. Genealogical Research: Providing guidance and resources for members to trace their Polish Jewish roots, including accessing archival records, conducting oral history interviews, and utilizing digital databases.
  3. Community Engagement: Facilitating connections among members who share a common interest in Polish Jewish genealogy, fostering a supportive environment for sharing research findings, insights, and strategies.

Overall, the JGST Poland SIG plays a crucial role in preserving the memory and heritage of Polish Jewish communities through diligent research, community engagement, and educational initiatives within the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto.

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected].

Polish Websites Folder

This folder has been set up for members of the Polish Special Interest Group and all others interest in researching their Polish family members.   

Click here to access the folder. Click here to access a document with links and information of interest for Polish research.

Ukraine Special Interest Group

The Ukraine Special Interest Group (SIG) is tailored for members of JGS Toronto with a focus on regions historically encompassed by the Russian Empire gubernia within the Pale of Settlement. These areas include Volhynia (Volyn), Kyiv, Chernigov, Poltava, Podolia, Kharkov, Kherson (including Odessa), Yekaterinoslav, Taurida (Crimea), Eastern Galicia, and Northern Bukovina. The SIG also covers Kharkov gubernia, as well as parts of Galicia and Bukovyna now within Ukraine. Its primary goal is to uncover and preserve the rich historical and cultural heritage of Jewish communities that once thrived across Ukraine.

Key aspects and activities of the JGST Ukraine SIG include:

  1. Historical and Geographical Focus: Exploring the diverse history and geographical spread of Jewish communities across Ukraine, encompassing major cities, smaller towns, and shtetls throughout the country.
  2. Genealogical Research: Providing resources, guidance, and support for members interested in tracing their Ukrainian Jewish roots. This includes accessing archival records, conducting family interviews, and utilizing specialized databases and resources specific to Jewish genealogy in Ukraine.
  3. Collaboration and Networking: Facilitating connections among members who share a common interest in Ukrainian Jewish genealogy, fostering a supportive environment for sharing research findings, exchanging insights, and collaborating on projects.

Overall, the JGST Ukraine SIG serves as a dedicated platform within JGS Toronto for individuals interested in exploring, documenting, and celebrating the history and genealogy of Jewish communities in Ukraine. By doing so, it contributes significantly to the broader efforts of Jewish genealogical research and preservation.

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact sigs@jgstoronto.ca to explore areas of common interest, share research findings, and advance personal genealogical agendas.

Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group

The Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group (SIG) at the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto is a community dedicated to exploring and maximizing the use of Family Tree Maker software in genealogical research. Family Tree Maker is a popular genealogy software that helps users organize, document, and share their family history. Key aspects and activities of the JGST Family Tree Maker SIG include:

  1. Software Mastery: Providing guidance and tutorials on using Family Tree Maker effectively, from basic functions to advanced features like creating reports, managing media, and utilizing online syncing capabilities.
  2. Problem Solving: Assisting members with troubleshooting issues they encounter while using Family Tree Maker, offering practical solutions and tips.
  3. Data Management: Educating members on best practices for organizing and maintaining genealogical data within Family Tree Maker, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in their research.
  4. Collaboration and Sharing: Facilitating discussions and knowledge sharing among members regarding their experiences with Family Tree Maker, encouraging collaboration on projects and the exchange of research methods.
  5. Training and Workshops: Organizing workshops, webinars, and guest speaker events focused on Family Tree Maker, featuring experts who provide insights into maximizing the software’s capabilities.

Overall, the Family Tree Maker SIG at JGST serves as a valuable resource for members interested in using this software to delve deeper into their family history research. It fosters a supportive community where members can enhance their skills, troubleshoot challenges, and share their genealogical discoveries efficiently. If you are passionate about Family Tree Maker and want to connect with others who share your interest, joining this SIG provides an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in genealogical software use.

FTM Information Links and Special Member Pricing.

Family Tree Maker User Guide
https://drive.google.com/file/d/11yBgQ4i9ecfwAA1dIpZboca1ZEBY8cQ5/view?usp=sharing

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected]

MyHeritage Special Interest Group

The MyHeritage Special Interest Group (SIG) at the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto (JGST) focuses on the use of MyHeritage’s platform for genealogical research, particularly in exploring Jewish ancestry. MyHeritage is a leading genealogy website and DNA testing service that provides tools for building family trees, exploring historical records, and connecting with genetic relatives.

Key aspects and activities of the JGST MyHeritage SIG include:

  1. Platform Proficiency: Offering guidance and training sessions to help members navigate and utilize MyHeritage effectively for genealogical research. This includes learning to build family trees, search historical records, and integrate DNA test results.
  2. DNA Research: Educating members on MyHeritage’s DNA testing features, including interpreting DNA matches, exploring ethnicity estimates, and using genetic genealogy tools to uncover familial connections.
  3. Collaboration and Networking: Facilitating connections among members who use MyHeritage, fostering a supportive environment for sharing research findings, exchanging tips and techniques, and collaborating on projects.
  4. Workshops and Guest Speakers: Organizing workshops, webinars, and inviting guest speakers who are experts in using MyHeritage for Jewish genealogy. These sessions provide insights into advanced features, research
    methodologies, and case studies.
  5. Problem Solving and Support: Assisting members with troubleshooting issues related to MyHeritage and providing solutions and guidance to optimize their genealogical research experience on the platform.

Overall, the MyHeritage JGST SIG serves as a dedicated community within the society for individuals interested in using MyHeritage to explore and document their Jewish family history. Whether you are new to MyHeritage or looking to expand your skills and knowledge, joining this SIG offers opportunities to enhance your genealogical research capabilities and connect with others who share your passion for Jewish ancestry exploration using MyHeritage. If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected]

Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto Global Community Special Interest Group (SIG)

The JGST Global Community Special Interest Group (SIG) is dedicated to exploring and preserving the rich tapestry of Jewish history and traditions worldwide. Our focus extends across continents, delving into the diverse cultural, social, and historical contexts that have shaped Jewish communities through the ages.

Objectives:

  1. Historical Research: Investigate the historical migration patterns, settlement histories, and community developments of Jewish populations globally.
  2. Cultural Preservation: Document and preserve the unique cultural practices, traditions, and customs of Jewish communities from various regions..
  3. Educational Programs: Organize webinars, lectures, and workshops featuring renowned historians, genealogists, and cultural experts to educate members and the broader community about Jewish history and genealogy.
  4. Community Building: Foster a sense of community among members by encouraging collaboration, sharing of personal stories, and mutual support in genealogical endeavors.
    Activities:
     Webinars and Lectures: Regularly scheduled online events featuring expert speakers on topics related to Jewish history and genealogy.
     Research Projects: Collaborative projects to explore specific aspects of Jewish history, such as migration patterns, historical events, or cultural practices.
     Publication of Findings: Sharing research findings through newsletters, journals, and online platforms to contribute to the broader knowledge base of Jewish history and genealogy.

Membership:

Membership in the JGST Global SIG is open to anyone with an interest in Jewish history and genealogy. Whether you are a seasoned genealogist or just starting your journey, our community provides valuable resources, expertise, and support. Join us in uncovering the stories, traditions, and legacies of Jewish communities around the world, and contribute to the preservation and celebration of our shared heritage.

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact [email protected]

Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto Know Your Society Special Interest Group

The “Know Your Society” Special Interest Group (SIG) at the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto (JGST) is dedicated to familiarizing members with the various committees and programs available within the society, while also encouraging participation and volunteerism.

Key objectives and activities of the JGST Know Your Society SIG include:

  1. Committee Spotlight: Highlighting the different committees within JGST, such as membership, education, research, and outreach. Each committee’s roles, responsibilities, and ongoing projects are showcased to provide members with a comprehensive understanding of how the society operates.
  2. Program Showcase: Featuring the diverse programs and initiatives offered by JGST, including workshops, lectures, webinars, and special events focused on Jewish genealogy. This includes promoting upcoming events and discussing past successful programs.
  3. Volunteer Opportunities: Actively seeking volunteers for various committees and programs within JGST. The SIG identifies specific roles and tasks where members can contribute their time, skills, and expertise to support the society’s activities.
  4. Educational Engagement: Organizing sessions that educate members about the benefits of volunteering, how to get involved, and the impact of their contributions to JGST. This includes highlighting success stories from current
    volunteers.
  5. Feedback and Suggestions: Providing a platform for members to share feedback, suggestions, and ideas for improving existing programs or developing new initiatives within the society.

Overall, the JGST Know Your Society SIG serves as a bridge between JGST members and the society itself, promoting awareness of available committees and programs while actively encouraging participation through volunteering. By engaging members in this way, the SIG strengthens the community spirit within JGST and fosters a supportive environment for advancing Jewish genealogical research and outreach efforts

If you are interested in joining this SIG, please contact sigs@jgstoronto