For Eric and Shelly, the idea of tzedakah has never been about recognition. It is a deeply personal, quiet, enduring belief that giving is not for accolades but impact.
Both born in Toronto, their paths ran parallel but never crossed. Eric’s early life was marked by loss, including the passing of his parents at a young age and later his first wife. Shelly was raised in a traditional Jewish home, grounded in strong values of community, identity and connection to Israel. Her mother Libby, now approaching 95, remains a living example of resilience and devotion. Her father Sam was honoured as UJA Man of the Year in 1973. Shelly’s upbringing included Jewish day school, Jewish summer camp (where her mom was the nurse), and a home deeply committed to Zionist ideals.
Their eventual meeting was not just a union of two people, but of two journeys. Together they embrace a world rich in Jewish learning and culture. What began as exposure has become a passion. Today, Eric studies modern Hebrew and is deeply committed to Israel and its people. Together, they’ve built a shared rhythm of travel to Israel and deeper community ties.
Yet when it came to philanthropy, their early approach was haphazard. They donated to friends’ and family’s causes, but without a clear strategy. As Eric, a seasoned investment professional, began to reflect on long-term planning, it became clear that their giving deserved the same intention. A pivotal moment came during the March of the Living, where reflection sparked a deeper conversation about legacy and responsibility.
Through the Jewish Foundation, Eric and Shelly found a framework that transformed their philanthropy into both a life-planning and legacy-building tool. It transformed giving from something unplanned into something purposeful.
Their giving today is guided by clear themes: strengthening Israel’s global image, investing in Jewish youth through immersive experiences like camp, supporting the vulnerable, animal welfare, and extending compassion beyond their own community both in Israel and in Canada. Their strategy not only reflects the importance of sharing Israel’s positive contributions with a broader audience but also reflects their commitment to causes beyond the Jewish community. This is demonstrated through their support of organizations such as the Israel Guide Dog Center and the Farley Foundation, which ensures that families facing financial hardship can still care for their pets.
At its core, their philanthropy is about dignity, pride, and continuity. Eric and Shelly believe in fostering a strong Jewish identity, especially for younger generations navigating an increasingly complex world.
With the guidance of the Jewish Foundation, Eric and Shelly have transformed their philanthropy from something reactive to something intentional. Their philanthropy is not a distant legacy. It is a living, breathing expression of who they are, guided by purpose and dedicated to ensuring a vibrant and proud future.