For Peter and Stella, supporting the Jewish community—both in Toronto and Israel—is not something they think about; it’s simply how they live. As they often say, it’s “in the DNA.”
Peter’s connection to UJA began as a teenager, when his mother Anita would schlep him to Federation telethons. He may not have appreciated it then, but he kept showing up—and over time, it became part of who he is. Anita, who survived the Holocaust as a hidden child, was found and brought to Canada by an aunt who was saved by Oskar Schindler. She never forgot the support she received.
Peter’s father’s family escaped Czechoslovakia just before the borders closed in 1939. “I always say they’re survivors too,” Peter reflects, “just in a different way—they got out just before everything changed.”
Stella’s story begins in Casablanca. When her family immigrated to Canada, they rebuilt their lives. Still, their values remained constant: a kosher home, Shabbat, and a deep commitment to helping others. “Even when we didn’t have much, there was always a tzedakah box on the table,” she recalls.
By the time Peter and Stella built their life together, giving back was second nature. “We talk about it all the time,” Stella says.
“I’ve always felt that being Jewish makes me part of this big family,” Peter adds. “And if any part of my family needs help, it’s our responsibility to step in.”
That sense of responsibility is closely tied to Israel. On his first visit as a teen, Peter remembers stepping off the plane and feeling immediately at home—a connection that never faded. He still maintains friendships from his early kibbutz experience.
Israel has remained central in their lives, and they made it a priority to pass that connection to their children. Today, with one child living there, that bond is both emotional and part of daily life.
Over time, their philanthropy became more focused—supporting Jewish education, strengthening identity, and ensuring a vibrant future.
In 2015, their resilience was tested. After a serious accident, Peter was told he would never walk again.
“It never really occurred to me that I wouldn’t.”
Once again, Israel played a defining role in his recovery. On an early trip back, Peter challenged himself physically, beginning with hiking, eventually returning to biking and skiing.
On that first hike, with Stella by his side, he climbed mountains—both literally and figuratively.
“I’m his biggest cheerleader,” she says.
Experiences like the March of the Living left a lasting impression. “Seeing the transformation in the students—that’s what stayed with me,” Peter shares.
For Peter and Stella, supporting the Jewish community is not optional—it is a responsibility. To those who came before them, those in need today, and future generations.
“This is for our kids,” they say. “It’s important they know who they are, feel connected to Israel, and understand they are part of something bigger—and that comes with responsibility.”