The JFM is pleased to welcome Dan Blankstein as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Dan's commitment to the Foundation, which includes over ten years as a volunteer, is an expression of his dedication to philanthropy and service to our Jewish Community.
"The role of the Chair is to empower and support the JFM volunteers and staff, in particular John Diamond, the CEO," he explains.
For Dan, the Chair's role is not about personal recognition but advancing the Foundation's mission and ensuring its continued success.
His connection to philanthropy and the community is inspired by the example set by his parents, Marjorie and MorleyZ”L Blankstein, who, in addition to decades-long support of the JFM, have established endowments to support the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and United Way Winnipeg, in perpetuity.
Dan understands the importance of planning for the future. His parents were donors and active participants in charitable causes, demonstrating through their actions how philanthropy can make a lasting difference. He has witnessed the power of thoughtful giving firsthand from a young age, including his parents’ support for Israel during the Six-Day War.
He suggests that, while supporting causes through bequests is positive estate planning, setting up an endowment while you are living can provide both immediate impact for the causes you believe in and personal satisfaction.
"You can leave directions in your will to donate to a specific charity or to establish an endowment with a Foundation," explains Blankstein. "But why not do it while you're still alive? Do it now while you're thinking about it, and see the impact of your donation in your own lifetime!"
Under his leadership, the Foundation will continue its positive trajectory guided by its evolved strategic plan.
"In addition to good governance, a main focus of mine will be to help raise awareness about the benefits of establishing endowments and funds through the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba," he says. "People should know that the Foundation can provide a service for individuals and families who wish to leave a lasting legacy without dealing with the complexities and costs of establishing their own foundations."
We look forward to Dan's thoughtful leadership at the Foundation and are confident that his dedication will inspire others to contribute meaningfully.