For the Spergel family, philanthropy is a birthright. Alan grew up watching his father, Gordon, give in a way that was both relentless and deeply personal. Each year, sorting through his personal donation receipts became an exercise in awe—dozens upon dozens of donations, many modest in size, but all meaningful in intent. Gordon could not say no to repeat requests year after year from any meaningful charity.
When Alan once asked his father how much to give, his father simply replied that one should “give until it hurts.” That philosophy became a guiding principle for both Julie and Alan in their approach to supporting the many causes with which they are involved.
Alan’s father was one of the few Jews who was a lifetime Member in the Canadian Navy. Accordingly, Alan’s family was posted to many parts of the world—Ottawa (twice); California; London, England; and Halifax. Yet no matter where they were living, one thing remained constant: a home open to others. His mother, Laura, always made room at the table—especially on Shabbat and holidays—welcoming guests, friends, newcomers, and anyone who needed a place to belong.
Alan attended Hebrew school in all locations, eventually celebrating his bar mitzvah in Halifax, and remained connected to Jewish life across the many communities he called home. He attended summer camp in Ottawa, where the community ensured that every Jewish child had the opportunity to experience Jewish camp. Julie and Alan participated in several fundraising bike rides in Israel for Hebrew University, which contributed to deepening their belief in supporting Israel. They are also major supporters of the Humber River Hospital Foundation, Abraham Global Peace Initiative, Simon Wiesenthal, Crohn’s & Colitis Canada, and UJA.
Their formal journey into philanthropy began years ago and was sparked by a moment of curiosity. While fundraising for their Hebrew University trip to Israel, Alan noticed that a donor had given through a personal foundation. That moment planted a seed. Over time, it grew into the creation of their own donor advised fund through the Jewish Foundation—a vehicle they continue to use extensively today.
The Spergel family wanted to create something that endures—generating support year after year, and allowing their giving to continue long beyond their lifetime. That vision is already taking shape. Their daughter, Gillian, is actively carrying their commitment forward—identifying causes that matter to her, including sponsoring women fleeing hardship in Afghanistan to build new lives in Canada.
For the Spergel family, philanthropy is not about recognition. It is about generosity, humility, and the unwavering belief that each of us has the power—and the responsibility—to make a difference.