The Asper Foundation

Website: www.asperfoundation.com

The Asper Foundation was developed in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1983 to build upon the philanthropic objectives of Dr. Israel Asper and the Asper family.  The Asper family was the founding family of CanWest Global Communications Corp., a media company active until 2010 that was a significant player both in Canada and in the international arena.  As well, philanthropy is also carried out by the Asper family through the CanWest Global Communications Charitable Foundation.  Both foundations have already undertaken and developed major initiatives in the areas of culture, education, community development and human rights locally, nationally and internationally.  In the recent past, over $125 million has been donated to various charitable causes through these foundations.  The Asper Foundation donated $20 million and was the driving force behind the creation of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.