Israel Asper, O.C., O.M., Q.C., L.L.D. (1932 – 2003) and Babs Asper (1933 – 2011) believed that philanthropy is a driving force behind positive change in people’s quality of life. For this reason, they formed The Asper Foundation in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in 1983 to build upon their and the Asper family’s philanthropic objectives.
The Asper Foundation undertakes, develops and supports major initiatives in the areas of Jewish charity as well as culture, education, community development and human rights locally, nationally and internationally.
In the recent past, over $125 million has been donated to various charitable causes through The Asper Foundation and the CanWest Global Foundation (the corporate foundation of CanWest Global Communications Corp.). This website not only reflects, but celebrates the inspired vision of Israel and Babs Asper and outlines the activities and future plans of The Asper Foundation.
Latest News
Tribute to Izzy Asper to be Featured at Jazz Festival Event at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
On June 18, 2019, a tribute to Izzy Asper as a founder of Jazz Winnipeg will be held at a special 30th anniversary event being held at the Canadian Museum for Human. For more information, please see here.
David Asper new chair of Manitoba Police Commission
David Asper has been appointed to a four-year term as the chair of the Manitoba Police Commission. For more information, click here, here, here, and here.
Launch of 2018-2019 Asper Foundation Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program
The Asper Foundation is proud to launch the 2018-2019 Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program for grades 7 to 9 students from Canada. For more information, click here.
Izzy Asper Jazz Performances Welcomes New Producer
The Asper Foundation and the Rady Jewish Community Centre are pleased to announce that Charlene Diehl will become Producer of the Izzy Asper Jazz Performances on January 1, 2019. For more information, see here.
Bank of Canada Issues New $10 Bank Note Featuring Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Viola Desmond
Today, the Bank of Canada issued the new $10 bank note featuring the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Viola Desmond. See photos here and here. For more information, see here, here, here, here, here, and here.
