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
Support for Manitoba Museum’s "Bringing Our Stories Forward" Capital Renewal Project
The Asper Foundation donates $400,000 and Gail Asper and Michael Paterson personally donate $100,000 to the Manitoba Museum’s "Bringing Our Stories Forward" Capital Renewal Project. For more information, see here, here, here, here, and here.
Award-winning human rights program empowers and transforms Canadian youth
The Asper Foundation’s award-winning Human Rights and Holocaust Studies Program has reached over 14,000 youth across Canada promoting understanding and sensitizing students to the consequences of racism. For more information, see here.
The 2018 Asper Award for Global Entrepreneurship
The Asper Award for Global Entrepreneurship is given annually to a person who best exemplifies the values of entrepreneurial spirit and independent thinking at Brandeis IBS while achieving outstanding success in the global marketplace through creative marketing and business strategies. For more information, see here, here, here, and here.
Goodbye to a Dear Friend
The trustees, staff and extended family of The Asper Foundation mourn the passing of our dear friend Louise Nebbs, Chief Financial Officer of The Asper Foundation. Please see obituary here.
Opening of Newest Edible Garden
The Asper Foundation, in collaboration with the Israeli Ministry of Education and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, opened its newest edible garden including an educators’ training program at the Al-Zaharaa Experimental School in the Arab village of Kafr Qasim. For photos of the opening, see here. For more information, see here.
