About Helaine

I am a certified instructor through the Canasta League of America. I teach Modern Canasta in a small, boutique style learning environment. My classes do not exceed six people. This small, semi private experience guarantees your success to learn and love the game.

By day I am a financial recruiter. I place financial professionals in both middle and back office roles with the major financial service banks in New York City. Though this work definitely pays the bills, my passion is teaching and playing canasta!

I teach primarily because I LOVE the game and I want to spread that love to others looking to engage in a smart, social gaming experience. I was an avid Mah Jong player for 7 years and once I learned Modern Canasta I traded in my cracks and bams for melding with my friends! This seems to be a common transition. Many Mah Jong players are turning to canasta and aren't looking back. Canasta is smarter and more strategic than Mah Jong but not quite as challenging as Bridge. The learning curve for becoming a really good canasta player is nowhere near as steep as becoming an accomplished Bridge player.

I teach in Northern New Jersey from my Essex County home. I also will travel to you and teach a group of your friends in your home. If you are looking to learn by yourself, you may wind up staying in the teaching group as your weekly game.

I will organize tournaments or card parties complete with party favors.