Why is it important to you to be involved with the Jerusalem Foundation of Canada?
Since childhood, the centrality of Jerusalem to Jewish identity has been deeply imprinted on me, reinforced by family traditions and biblical references like “Next year in Jerusalem.” It has always held a sacred place in my life. So when the opportunity arose to contribute in some way to the city, it felt like a natural extension of my values and aspirations.
Which Jerusalem Foundation program are you most excited about now? Why?
The power of education and integration
I’ve been fortunate to see so many impactful projects that it’s hard to name just one. But one moment that really stuck with me was at a school supported by the Jerusalem Foundation that teaches young children both Hebrew and Arabic. A student stood up and pointed to her best friend, saying, “Two years ago, we couldn’t even communicate, and now she’s my best friend.” Then her friend stood up and said the same thing. It was incredible to see how the school had brought them together, breaking down barriers and fostering real friendships.
Beyond buildings: investing in communities
The Jerusalem Foundation is known for building important community spaces like Canada House, which was desperately needed. But what really impresses me is that it’s not just about the buildings—it’s about investing in the people who use them. The foundation supports grassroots initiatives that strengthen communities and bring people together in meaningful ways.
A rapid response to crisis
After October 7th, I saw something remarkable. Young leaders in Israel didn’t wait for the government to act—they took matters into their own hands. They set up schools for displaced children, organized programs for families stuck in hotel rooms, and created spaces for kids to play and feel safe. They saw what needed to be done and did it. That kind of initiative and determination was incredibly inspiring. I was also struck by a young soccer coach who created something like a summer camp for the kids—a place where they could play, learn, and just be kids again.
Empowering the next generation
One of the things I admire most about the Jerusalem Foundation is how it puts trust in young leaders, and supports innovative, “out-of-the-box” approaches to new and thoughtful and urgent needs. It’s not just about funding programs—it’s about believing in the next generation to step up and make a difference. I met young people from all walks of life—secular, religious, all backgrounds—who weren’t focused on politics but on action. They saw a need and found a way to help.
Building more than structures
At its core, the Jerusalem Foundation is about strengthening society. It’s about adapting to new challenges, investing in people, and making sure the next generation has the support it needs to create real change. Seeing these young leaders in action left a deep impression on me, and it reinforced why this work is so important.
You won’t hear about this in the North American press, but young people in the community took action on their own. They didn’t wait for the government—left, right, or center—to step in.
What do you wish more Canadians knew about Jerusalem Foundation and its programs?
We have a big job in educating the Jewish community about what we do. With so many competing organizations in Canada—universities, foundations, and beyond—it can be hard to break through. But if more people saw what I’ve seen, they’d want to invest more in Jerusalem, a city that desperately needs support.
It’s not just about emergency aid after October 7th, though that was critical. It’s also about long-term investment—enhancing the city’s culture, beauty, and infrastructure. Take the new library, for example. It’s one of the most incredible libraries I’ve ever seen, unlike anything else. If more people knew about it, they’d want to be part of it.
Getting the word out is a challenge, especially with a small board, but conversations like this can help. The more people hear these stories, the more they’ll want to contribute.
Joseph (Joe) Wilder, K.C. has practised in litigation, business, and estate law in Winnipeg for over six decades. He co-founded Wilder Wilder and Langtry in 1967, later merging with PKF Lawyers in 2020. Beyond his legal career, he has been a leader in Winnipeg’s Jewish community, national advocacy, and Canadian sports, serving as President of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He was chair of the national Canada-Israel Committee and held key roles in the Canadian Jewish Congress, and Pan Am Games. Honoured for his contributions, he has served on our board since 2017 and is the past president of the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.