Martin Bernholtz on the lifelong family tradition of philanthropy

Martin Bernholtz, the National Board Chair of the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University, describes a personal journey defined by a long-standing family connection to the institution. His earliest memories of the university are not from formal academic settings but from the intimate environment of his grandmother’s home. As a child, Bernholtz recalls attending fundraising teas held in her residence. To ensure the guests were not disturbed, he and his cousins were often sent down to the basement while the fundraising efforts took place upstairs.

These early experiences instilled a deep reverence for community involvement, a value reinforced by his parents. Bernholtz highlights the example set by his mother, who remained active in community service well into her late seventies. She was particularly known for delivering Meals on Wheels, a task she performed with dedication for many years. His father also played a significant role in their community life, dedicating considerable time to work on behalf of their local synagogue.

Bernholtz’s personal connection to Israel began in 1978 with his first visit to the country. Since that initial trip, he has returned numerous times, balancing family visits with his professional and personal ties to Hebrew University. This recurring presence has solidified his relationship with the nation and its institutions. He notes that philanthropy has always been an integral part of his family process, extending beyond financial contributions to include the investment of time and energy into the community.

For Bernholtz, the concept of giving is closely tied to the Jewish principle of tikkun olam, or repairing the world. He explains that while money is a component of philanthropy, it is equally about the time spent making a difference and improving the world around one. This perspective drives his volunteer work, which he views as a way to give back to the community while engaging in activities that are personally meaningful and interesting.

His admiration for Hebrew University is rooted in its technological achievements and its social character. Bernholtz expresses particular pride in the university’s advancements in fields such as agro-tech and medical technology. Beyond its scientific contributions, he values the institution’s diversity and its openness to all members of Israeli society, seeing these traits as essential to its mission.

Bernholtz’s story is featured in the first episode of the 2026-2027 season of a new video series titled The Philanthropists. The series is hosted by Israeli writer and director Maor Zaguri and presented by the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University. The program delves into the lives of individuals who dedicate themselves to giving, exploring their sense of purpose and the factors that make their contributions meaningful.

The article was produced in collaboration with the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University, highlighting the organization’s ongoing efforts to connect donors with the causes they support. Through Bernholtz’s narrative, the series aims to illustrate how personal history and professional dedication can converge to create a lasting impact on both local and global communities.

The piece serves as an introduction to the broader themes of the series, which seeks to understand the motivations behind charitable acts. By focusing on Bernholtz’s background, the story underscores the importance of intergenerational values and the role of education in fostering a culture of generosity.

As the series progresses, it will continue to explore the diverse experiences of philanthropists, offering insights into the various ways people choose to make a difference. Bernholtz’s commitment to Hebrew University stands as a testament to the enduring power of personal connection in driving charitable efforts.

The release of the first episode coincides with the start of the new season, providing viewers with a timely look at the individuals shaping the landscape of modern philanthropy. The series promises to offer a nuanced view of giving, moving beyond the transactional aspects to explore the deeper human connections involved.