I grew up in the heart of Toronto’s Jewish community along the Bathurst Street corridor, immersed in a traditional Jewish upbringing. Friday night dinners, squash lessons at the Bathurst JCC, synagogue attendance, and singing in the boys’ shul choir were all part of my routine. I attended Jewish day school through Grade 12 and spent 11 summers at Camp Ramah. Some of my fondest childhood memories include attending Sunday morning services with my zayda at the Drildzer Society and occasionally leading prayers or reading Torah. 

Israel has always been a cornerstone of my life. I vividly recall walking the full 35 km Israel walkathon (now the Walk with Israel) and getting autographs from Börje Salming and Darryl Sittler. My wife Christine, who converted under Rabbi Frydman-Kohl’s guidance, and I have visited Israel multiple times. My brother Eric and his family made Aliyah in 2012, and my children—Sarah, Isaac, and Jake—have all spent significant time there, volunteering or learning. 

Despite experiencing nearly every Jewish opportunity available, it wasn’t until adulthood that I truly understood my responsibility to give back to the Toronto Jewish community that shaped me. I believe deeply in the Jewish value of empathy—helping those in vulnerable or less secure circumstances. In a city of great wealth, resources are highly concentrated—creating an even greater obligation to support those in need, whether financially or through volunteering. 

I’ve been fortunate to give back to many causes within and beyond the Jewish community. As a tax and estate planning specialist, I encourage clients to consider philanthropy in their estate planning, ensuring their families are cared for, but also making a lasting impact in the community. Often, it’s as simple as asking: have you considered charitable giving? A well-structured plan not only supports meaningful causes but can also provide significant tax savings. Nearly a decade ago, I established a fund with the Jewish Foundation to maximize my charitable giving, and my daughter Sarah set up a fund for her bat mitzvah gifts. 

I remain actively involved with various charities, including the Jewish Foundation, Beth Tzedec, McGill University, and SickKids Hospital Foundation. At one point, I attended so many evening charity meetings that my family joked about how often I was rushing out after dinner! 

Looking ahead, I hope to continue giving back and inspiring others to do the same. Whether through time, money, or gifts of appreciated securities, every contribution strengthens our vibrant Jewish community and supports the future of Israel. Together, we can ensure that the values and institutions that shaped us thrive for generations to come.