| Why is it important to you to be involved with the Jerusalem Foundation of Canada?
I think it’s a very, very worthwhile organization that doesn’t have the highest profile in the North American community. Jerusalem is a unique city – it’s the capital of Israel and home to three monotheistic religions. The Jerusalem Foundation has a great deal of merit. It plays an important role across different areas in enhancing the lives of Jerusalem’s citizens and visitors.
How did you become involved with the Jerusalem Foundation of Canada? Wendy and I had no contact with the Jerusalem Foundation prior to being asked to host the Toronto Gala in the fall of 2023, honouring the life of Julia Koschitzky, z’l , whom we knew well and admired greatly. And we were extremely honoured to ask to be chairing the evening. Then I went back to Israel in July of 2024, and I knew I wanted to learn more about the Jerusalem Foundation. So, I met with Shai Doron, z’l, the charismatic president of the Jerusalem Foundation at the time, and we spent the day together. And it was with him that I really got to learn about the Jerusalem Foundation, what they do, and projects they initiated and are running. I gained an understanding of the importance of its role, and I felt drawn to it.
I then helped with an event in Florida earlier this year when the Mayor of Jerusalem and the current president, Arik Grebelsky, were visiting. It was then I was asked to sit on the board, and I happily agreed to do so.
Which Jerusalem Foundation Project are you most excited about now? Why? With Shai, I toured a very interesting project in East Jerusalem – I was able to see the first community swimming pool under construction to serve the northern communities of the city. There are 15 such centers in West Jerusalem and this will be the first one in East Jerusalem.
We also visited HaMiffal, a unique cultural and arts center, located in a historical central Jerusalem building that was once abandoned and dilapidated. There, young Jerusalem artists, and performers showcase their work in constantly evolving exhibits, co-working spaces, and there’s a little café there, too.
Another project that resonated with me was Juda’s Yard project, which helps young ultra-Orthodox who are leaving the fold to integrate into mainstream Israeli society. I met some of the participants in the program, and I learned how they were being supported, in a caring way, with community, education, and employment. |