The Asper family believes that philanthropy is a driving force behind positive change in people’s quality of life throughout the world. For this reason, The Asper Foundation was formed in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1983 to build upon the philanthropic objectives of Dr. Israel Asper and the Asper family.

The Asper Foundation undertakes and develops major initiatives in the areas of culture, education, community development and human rights locally, nationally and internationally. A number of major initiatives in corporate philanthropy are also carried out by the Asper family through their control of the CanWest Global Communications Charitable Foundation.