Campaign Chairs
Gary Viner
Co-Chair, Annual Campaign
Gary Viner is an Ottawa native and University of Toronto Medical School graduate. He is an extremely active leader in the community, particularly with Temple Israel, Tamir and Jewish Federation of Ottawa and has been an incredible fundraiser for many Jewish organizations including Federation, Temple Israel and the Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge. He also raises funds for the Ottawa Hospital’s “Run for a Reason” during May Race Weekend annually.
“I feel honoured and privileged to be asked to lead the Annual Campaign. I’ve been involved with fundraising for Federation for close to 40 years. I’ve always had a commitment to the community and I’m very proud to be a Jew and support our institutions.”
Gary’s family is one of the largest interconnected families in Ottawa, with his great-grandfather immigrating here in 1913 to join other family. This large family life has helped him recognize the importance of community and community service.
Over the years, Gary has sat as a Vaad Ha’ir board member (precursor to Federation) and has had multiple roles at Temple Israel from youth advisor, and ritual chair, to board and executive member. He is also an annual participant in the Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge’s “Biking for Bubbies” fundraiser. He retired from his family medicine practice in June 2021, though continues to provide some clinical replacement work at the academic teaching centre.
“Our diverse Jewish heritage is important to me. When our ancestors immigrated, many assimilated, diminishing our collective memory. I try to counter this with family genealogy and membership in the Ottawa Jewish Historical society. I have canvassed for Federation for decades because I believe that we need well-resourced social institutions to maintain an inclusive, knowledgeable, and integrated Jewish community. To me, it’s a responsibility to help support the community. If we don’t support our own, no one else will.”
Gary and his wife, Debra Sadowski Viner just celebrated their 50th anniversary in May 2023. Their three married daughters, Alisa, Sara and Lauren were all born at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. They are a family of teachers, with all having teaching degrees (including Gary’s Master of Education). Debra, previously with the Ganon Preschool at the SJCC, is now retired. Alisa and Sara are in Ottawa and Lauren in Toronto, affiliated with public school boards. Gary and Debra are so very proud of their five grandchildren.
Leila Ages
Co-Chair, Annual Campaign
Leila Ages' involvement with the Federation began in 2002 when she played a crucial role in developing its website. Over the years, Leila has volunteered with numerous Jewish community organizations, including Jewish Family Services, the Soloway JCC, and the Ottawa Jewish Community School (OJCS). She has also been an active participant in the Melton adult education program. From 2019 to 2021, she served as the chair of the board for OJCS. Following her tenure there, she was invited to join the Federation Board of Directors.
Leila's dedication to the Federation Campaign is evident. She has been a canvasser for the past four years, witnessing firsthand the positive impact the campaign has on partner organizations.
A mother of three, all of whom have attended OJCS, Leila hopes her children will be inspired by her passion for the Jewish community and become active volunteers themselves.