The Jewish Foundation of Manitoba [JFM] put on a beautiful event recently for signers to the Endowment Book of Life. Before London spoke, John Diamond, CEO of the JFM noted that “Since its inception, the Endowment Book of Life has grown to become one of the most meaningful and successful initiatives in our community. It connects us across generations, honouring those who came before us, while inspiring those who will come next. Every signer, every story, every commitment to the community strengthens the foundation that supports Jewish life in Manitoba.”
He added, “The Jewish community in Winnipeg continues to grow, evolve, and adapt. It keeps being what Jewish people in this city need it to be: a source of belonging, resilience, and pride.”
Jack London, one of the signers, told a powerful personal story at the event,“When I was a teenager, my father purchased an insurance policy on my life. He paid extra for the policy by including a waiver of premiums in the event of his death and ownership of the policy for me personally, He died six months later…. Ever since, with my family as the beneficiary, the policy remains, awaiting my demise. It has significant value. We will now designate the Foundation as its beneficiary. We do so in honor of my dad. He deserves the Kavod.”
Belva London, also a signer, in her story has written that “ My parents gave up a lot of the fancy things in life in order to give us kids a good chance. They were fiercely Jewish and belonged to several Jewish organization…I cannot overstate the positive effect of B’nai B’rith Camp in my life. I still have friends today that I met there when I first started at nine years of age. I continued at camp, becoming a counsellor for several years, finally stopping when I got married!”
She wrote that her relationship with Jack ‘has thrived because of our totally different backgrounds and skills. Through the years, I have learned a little bit about the Law, and Jack has learned much about Design.”
Moses Levy, the former Executive Director of the Asper Foundation wrote in his story that “Through it all, my family has been the centre of my universe. My beloved wife, Barbara, z”l, a retired teacher, passed away in 2020. She was my partner in every sense and remains an enduring source of love and strength. Together, we raised three children —Adam, Samuel, and Sarah —who benefited from a Jewish education and make me proud every day. I am also blessed with two grandchildren, Benjamin and Maya, children of Adam and his wife, Tanya. Jewish tradition shaped our home, and I am proud to see that spirit continue in my children and grandchildren.”
Jeff Morry , another signer, wrote in his story that “For the past 24 years, I have worked at The Asper Foundation and now hold the position of Senior Director of Strategy and Programming. There, I have the privilege of meeting and working with extraordinary people, practicing the Jewish tradition of tikkun olam, and repairing the world in tangible ways.”
Sarah Morry, another signer, wrote in her story that “The values I carry forward are those of my parents, grandparents and siblings. They have shown me that leadership comes through example, that tradition roots us, and that service is at the core of Jewish life. I strive to live these lessons so that my sons, in turn, will carry them forward.”
Dave Hill, a lawyer who is not-Jewish was also a signer. He wrote in his story “Throughout my professional life, I have been deeply connected with Winnipeg’s Jewish community. Many of my colleagues, mentors, and clients are Jewish, and I’ve always admired the strength and perseverance of the Jewish people throughout history. Those relationships—and my mother’s example of generosity—led me to become involved with the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.”
Becky Kaufmann, another signer, wrote in her story that “Philanthropy and volunteerism have always been a meaningful part of my life. I grew up learning by example, from my parents, my aunt, and both sets of grandparents, all of whom lived their lives guided by a deep sense of community and service. I feel incredibly fortunate to come from such phenomenal people, each a shining example of what it means to be a mensch.”
Stewart Fay signed in memory of Patricia Fay. She wrote in her story, “When I decided to sign the Endowment Book of Life, I did so because I want my family and granddaughters to know my story. My granddaughters have brought so much joy to my life – I love spending time with them – and this entry will be a lasting memory. I hope to be remembered as a kind and loving person and if I could make any wish for my family in the future, it would be happiness, good health, and contentment. In this time of increasing violence and division, I hope for a future filled with more compassion for those experiencing hardship and difficulty.”
In his remarks, Jack London said “giving isn’t just about money; it’s about its impact. Every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to change and better lives. Every gift by way of endowment results in an endless rate of return from investment which can be employed year after year to support our institutions and assist individuals in need to survive more comfortably and our community to flourish. Think of it like planting seeds. You may not see the tree grow overnight, but one day someone will sit in its shade benefitting from the kindness you showed today.”
London addedted, “Endowment gifts can inspire others to give- strengthening communal bonds and creating a culture of philanthropy within the community. He added that endowments can be used to support causes like holocaust education, Israel advocacy or interfaith dialogue, aligning with communal priorities.”
He pointed out that in Jewish thought, giving tzedakah is not just charity – it’s a moral obligation. An endowment gift is a powerful expression of this duty. It reflects the Jewish principle of tikkun olam, (repairing the world). It can be a spiritual act, fulfilling commandments and enhancing the donor’s connections to their faith. “
London also said that the JFM carefully manages legacy and resources for generations to come.” It provides a safety net for years to come. An endowment fund protects and emphasizes present and future needs of the Jewish presence in Manitoba. “
Dan Blankstein, Chair of JFM spoke after there was entertainment at the event, noting the EBOL “now contains more than 800 stories, including those of my parents, Marjorie and Morley Blankstein.”
Blankstein stated that “When you share your stories through the Endowment Book of Life, they are given a permanent home. Collectively, they form a living history of Jewish life in Manitoba, a history filled with resilience, compassion, humour, and hope.
“These stories are not only a record of the past, but act as a guide for the future. They offer an example to the present and future generations of what it means to belong, to give, and to take responsibility for the vitality of our community.”
Blankstein thanked the signers for “ adding your voices and your visions to this collection…Your generosity ensures that the programs, schools, and organizations that sustain Jewish life in Manitoba will remain vibrant for decades to come.”
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