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
Launch of 2019-2020 Asper Foundation Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program
The Asper Foundation is proud to launch the 2019-2020 Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program for grades 7 to 9 students from Canada. For more information, please click here and here.
The Asper Foundation creates unprecedented new entrance bursary at the University of Manitoba
The Asper Foundation announced a $5-million gift to the University of Manitoba designed to remove barriers for students in any faculty or school demonstrating financial need. For more information, please click here.
The Asper Foundation Donates $50,000 to Project Rozana Canada
The Asper Foundation is proud to provide $50,000 in support of Project Rozana Canada over the next three years. Through healthcare, this initiative seeks to create pathways to peace between Israelis and Palestinians. For more information, please click here and here.
Asper Performing Arts Centre to Open
At a ceremony held in Migdal HaEmek, Israel, it was announced that the Asper Performing Art Centre will be established. For more information, please click here.
Launch of “The Israel Story” Initiative
The Asper Foundation is pleased to announce a partnership with Shalem College in the creation of “The Israel Story”, an ambitious educational initiative that explores central Zionist themes and ideas through the close examination of significant works of modern Hebrew and Zionist literature. For more information, please click here.
