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.
Inspired by a deep commitment to impactful philanthropy, The Asper Foundation, a Winnipeg-based philanthropic organization, develops major projects and provides support to the Jewish Community and broader community in areas of culture, education, community development, and human rights on a local, national and international scale. In particular, the Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in Winnipeg, therefore much of the focus of this philanthropy is directed to the general Winnipeg community.
In the recent past, over $200 million has been donated to various charitable causes through The Asper Foundation. 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.
Major Announcements
Launch of Asper Community Shabbat Program
In April 2024, The Asper Foundation established the Asper Community Shabbat (Sabbath) Program with the inaugural Shabbat being hosted by the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada and invited guests from the Bear Clan Patrol. For more information, click here.
Article: Shabbat Ceilidh: An Unforgettable Production by The Winnipeg Jewish Theatre in Partnership with The Asper Foundation (The Jewish Post, March 19, 2025)
Article: Interfaith outreach program brings Winnipeggers together (Winnipeg Free Press, February 1, 2025)
Gail Asper Receives the Sol Kanee Distinguished Community Service Medal
Gail Asper, Chair of The Asper Foundation, received the Sol Kanee Distinguished Community Service Medal at the Kavod Evening at Winnipeg’s Congregation Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. For more information on the award, see here and here.
David Asper Inducted into Manitoba Jewish Sports Wall of Honour
At the recent 50th Annual Rady Jewish Community Centre Ken Kronson Sports Dinner, David Asper, KC was inducted into the 2024 Cyril ‘Zeke’ Marantz (z’’l) Manitoba Jewish Sports Wall of Honour. For more information, see here and here.
The Asper Foundation Supports Israeli Victims of Hamas Anti-Feminist Violence
The Asper Foundation was proud to co-sponsor a discussion on anti-feminist violence and misogyny held at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg. The evening, attended by 1,000 live and on-line attendees, was hosted by Jewish Child and Family Service and entitled Hear Our Voices: Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in the October 7th Hamas Terror Attacks. Please see video and program.
The Asper Foundation Spearhead’s Support for Campaign Against Antisemitism
The Asper Foundation is proud to be a foundational supporter for the creation of The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affair’s new Winnipeg office which serves Manitoba and Saskatchewan in response to concerns about rising antisemitism and anti-Zionism.
The office was created in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and is led by Gustavo Zentner. For more information, click here.
