A Legacy That Lives Beyond a Single Moment

For Judy Litwack-Goldman and David Goldman, giving has never been an obligation—it has always been a way of life. As a proud fifth‑generation Jewish Canadian born family, their story is rooted in continuity, tradition, and a deep sense of responsibility to the community that shaped them. Their families were deeply involved in Jewish life in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Glace Bay, and those values were passed down at every Shabbat table, in every volunteer role, and in every act of generosity.

A Shared Foundation of Values

Judy grew up in Ottawa in a home where philanthropy was woven into daily life. Her parents, Dora and Sam Litwack z”l, modelled leadership, activism, and unwavering commitment to Israel. From Shabbat visits with the residents of Ottawa’s Hillel Lodge to welcoming new immigrants at their seder table, Judy learned early that strengthening the community was both a privilege and a duty.

David’s upbringing was similarly grounded in Jewish life. His parents, Donna and Ralph Goldman, instilled in him the importance of presence, consistency, and giving back. Trips to Israel, a UJA mission, and leadership programs shaped his Jewish identity and set him on a lifelong path of community involvement.

A Partnership Built on Purpose

When Judy and David met, they were both already co‑chairing UJA young professional divisions. Their shared values became the foundation of their relationship. As a couple, they continued to lead—co‑chairing UJA’s first Young Leadership Division, participating in telethons, and serving on executive cabinets. Each role deepened their connection to the Toronto Jewish community and to Israel.

As their family grew, so did their commitment. Their children, Jordana and Evan, joined them in volunteering, giving, and leading. Today, Jordana, her husband Graham, their children, and Evan have continued these values into their adult lives and homes. Judy and David take pride in seeing those values continue.

How the Jewish Foundation Helped Shape Their Legacy

In 2025, Judy and David’s close friends were honoured at the Book of Life event. They were deeply moved by the stories shared, by the Jewish Foundation’s role in sustaining Jewish life for the long term, and how the Foundation helps families translate their values into lasting philanthropic impact.

Moved by what they learned, Judy and David reached out to a philanthropic advisor at the Jewish Foundation. Together, they explored how their values, priorities, and long-term hopes for the community could be reflected in a fund structure that would grow over time and support the areas they care about most. This thoughtful guidance—grounded in the Foundation’s Jewish philanthropy and investment expertise, as well as UJA’s research and planning—gave them confidence that their philanthropy would remain aligned with their values.

Why a Legacy Gift Made Sense—Now More Than Ever

With their children grown and more independent, Judy and David reached a moment of clarity: they now had the capacity to make an investment that would live on forever. And in a time of rising antisemitism and uncertainty, standing visibly and proudly with the Jewish community felt more urgent than ever.

They learned that, at its core, a UJA Legacy Gift is a permanent gift to UJA’s Annual Campaign—a way to ensure their support continues every single year, in perpetuity.

A legacy gift allows Judy and David to:

• Support evolving community priorities, ensuring the community remains strong in times of both stability and crisis.
• Respond to urgent and emerging challenges—from rising antisemitism to supporting families experiencing vulnerability.
• Strengthen Jewish life across generations in Canada, Israel, and beyond.
• Grow their impact over time—adding to their fund throughout their lives.

A Legacy of Strength, Pride, and Continuity

For Judy and David, their legacy gift is more than a philanthropic decision—it is a promise. A promise that Jewish life will remain strong, proud, and resilient. And a promise that the values passed down through generations will continue shaping the Jewish future for many more to come.

Last month, Judy and David were proudly inscribed in the Book of Life, joining a community of fundholders whose stories reflect the values they hope to carry forward. With the Jewish Foundation’s trusted stewardship—including disciplined investment oversight and access to strategic, data‑driven planning—their legacy gift will continue to grow and support the community long into the future. This ensures their impact endures far beyond a single moment and strengthens Jewish life for generations.

For more information on UJA Legacy Gifts and how the Jewish Foundation can help you achieve your philanthropic goals, contact jewishfoundation@ujafed.org or call 416-631-5703.