{
  "id": 17976109,
  "title": "Giving back, making a difference: The story behind Martin Bernholtz",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/03/giving-back-making-a-difference-the-story-behind-martin-bernholtz",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-03T14:46:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Jerusalem Post",
    "slug": "jerusalem-post",
    "url": "https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/article-913701"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Martin Bernholtz, National Board Chair of the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University, shares his deep connection to the prestigious institution. As a child, he recalls his grandmother hosting fundraising teas at her home, while he and his cousins were confined to the basement to avoid disrupting the events. Bernholtz speaks with admiration about his parents' dedication to community involvement, noting that his mother delivered Meals on Wheels well into her late 70s, and his father contributed significantly to the synagogue.\n\nHis first visit to Israel occurred in 1978, and since then, he has returned numerous times for both family gatherings and academic pursuits. Bernholtz attributes his passion for philanthropy to his family's long-standing tradition. He explains that philanthropy encompasses not only financial contributions but also dedicating time to serve one's community, embodying the Jewish principle of tikkun olam - the idea of repairing the world and making it a better place.\n\nFor Bernholtz, volunteering at Hebrew University offered him the opportunity to give back while simultaneously engaging with the community and being captivated by the university's achievements. He expresses great pride in the technological advancements at Hebrew University, particularly in agricultural and medical technologies. Moreover, he admires the university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity, welcoming all segments of Israeli society.\n\nHis story will be featured in the first episode of The Philanthropists, a video series premiering in the 2026-2027 season. Hosted by Israeli writer and director Maor Zaguri and produced by the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University, the series explores the lives of individuals who devote themselves to philanthropy, delving into their motivations and the profound impact of their contributions.",
  "summary": "WATCH: In the first episode of The Philanthropists , Bernholtz reflects on family values, his love for Israel and why giving is about far more than money.",
  "key_points": [
    "Martin Bernholtz is National Board Chair of Canadian Friends of Hebrew University",
    "He recalls family tradition of fundraising teas and community service",
    "Bernholtz's passion for philanthropy stems from dedication to tikkun olam"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Gulf News",
        "title": "The story behind Arvid Lindblad's special F1 Diwali helmet",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/03/the-story-behind-arvid-lindblads-special-f1-diwali-helmet",
        "published": "2026-11-03T14:08:58.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}