Asper Foundation

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ASPER FOUNDATION

Official blazon

Arms : Barry Azure and Or a pile reversed Gules
Crest : Issuant from a coronet erablé Or a demi lion Gules charged on the shoulder with a Magen David and holding in its dexter paw a torch Or
Supporters : Two eagles Or membered Gules each gorged with a collar Azure pendent therefrom a hurt charged with a hand, standing on a mound of prairie grass Or above barry wavy Azure and Argent
Motto : LEAD BY EXAMPLE

Origin/meaning

The arms were officially granted on January 15, 2003.

The alternating bands of blue and gold, colours which have significance for the Asper family, symbolize a series of steps that a person or organization can take while striving to better their situation. The red shape evokes both the "A" of Asper and the notion of reaching upward for excellence.

The coronet represents the Foundation's service to Canada. The lion symbolizes both the Jewish heritage of the creators of the Foundation and the spirit of its work, reaching out and making a difference in a great variety of situations. The Magen David, also known as the Shield or Star of David, refers to the Foundation's support of many Jewish community institution and initiatives. The torch has long been a symbol of striving for enlightenment, and in this instance, it represents the way in which help from the Foundation enables recipients to take a comprehensive look at their projects and use the support to best advantage.

The eagle is a bird noted for its strength and acuity of sight; therefore, it represents the ability of the officers of the Foundation to seek out and identify needs and respond to them. The gold hands are a reference to one of Mr. Asper's suggestions for a motto, "A helping hand". The grass and the blue and white wavy bars represent the Prairies and the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Taken together these refer to Winnipeg, the Foundation's home site.

The motto is a key element in the Foundation's philosophy.