We’ve always believed that charity begins at home. It’s a simple idea, but for both of us, it has become the compass that guides our lives and the legacy we hope to pass on to our children. 

We were each raised in homes where giving wasn’t something you thought about—it was simply how you lived. What drew us so deeply to each other is that our stories reflect that same spirit. 

Sean grew up watching his parents lead through service, showing that strengthening community is both a privilege and a responsibility. Karen’s upbringing reflected that same instinctive generosity. Her parents carried their commitment to helping others from South Africa to Toronto, and her aunt Myrna’s quiet acts of kindness showed that the most meaningful giving often happens without recognition. Those early examples grounded us and continue to guide how we live today. 

When we built our life together, it felt natural that these shared values would be at the heart of it. For us, philanthropy isn’t just about giving—it’s about showing up, being present, and believing we can each make a difference. Whether through leadership roles, community initiatives, or causes close to our hearts, we’ve always tried to give with intention and care. 

Karen has taken on meaningful leadership roles, particularly in healthcare and community organizations, bringing empathy and quiet strength to everything she does. Sean has been fortunate to dedicate his professional life to strengthening our community—work that feels less like a career and more like a calling. In different ways, we’ve both tried to give where we can make an impact. 

But what matters most to us is what happens at home. Our children—Samantha, Alyssa, and Charlie—are at the centre of everything we do. We want them to grow up not just hearing about giving but experiencing it. As a family, we’ve planted trees in Israel, supported causes close to our hearts, volunteered at food banks, and walked together for meaningful causes. In those moments, we’re reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting mark. 

We’ve tried to show them that you don’t have to do everything—you just have to do something. 

Creating a donor advised fund was one way to ensure these values continue beyond us. More than anything, we hope philanthropy will always be part of our family’s story—defined not by how much we give, but by the meaning behind it. 

We feel deeply grateful for the examples we were given, for the opportunity to give back, and for the privilege of raising our children with these values. If they grow up believing they have both the ability and responsibility to make a difference, then we will have done something truly meaningful.