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I grew up in Vancouver in an Orthodox Jewish household. My
parents were very charitable, involved in the Jewish community
and my father served a term as president of the synagogue.
In my adult years, I became estranged from my Jewish identity.
Now I know that supporting the Jewish community is of the
utmost importance and I’m trying to find my way.
About twelve years ago I began to take a greater interest
in my Jewish roots. Perhaps it was the situation in Israel,
and reading more about Jewish affairs that created this awareness
in me. My late wife Rachel and I decided then that it was
time to do something for the Jewish community, but we could
not connect with a cause.
I was fortunate to meet Sharon Goldberg, a remarkable lawyer
with a very strong sense of Jewish values, who introduced
me to Carol Kassel at the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto.
Sharon knew my feelings, and felt that Carol would be the
person to direct me. I was very impressed with Carol’s
personalized attention and insight, and together we worked
out a plan that felt right. I decided to create a fund with
half of the proceeds going directly to Israel, and half remaining
with UJA Federation to support our local needs.
It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to give to the community
and realize that many people will benefit.
The old adage that you get more than you give is really true.
There is very little that feels as good as being able to help
others.
Thinking about all those years of not being affiliated has
made me want to reestablish myself as a committed Jew and
take my place in the community where I belong.
I feel that giving is my most important aspect of living
— giving to everyone; and now, especially to the Jewish
community. I would like to live to see peace in Israel, and
some of the fruits of my renewed involvement.
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