SPONSOR SPEAK: MICHAEL KALLES, HARVEY KALLES REAL ESTATE

According to Ellen:

As long as I can remember I have always heard of the exceptional Kalles family. I had always admired this family from a far as they whole heartedly give to so many worthy causes. As supporters right from inception, we only truly became intimate with the entire family when Aly, Corinne and Joey’s daughter called to ask if she could spend time with Jacob on Sundays as a Bat Mitzvah project. This one relationship fused into an everlasting bond, not just with Aly and Jacob, but with our family and the entire Kalles, Citron and Goodbaum clan. The family values that have been transcended through the generations beginning with Elise and Harvey to their children and their grand children is awe inspiring and I feel so blessed to witness that type of that magic.

According to Michael:

You are such a philanthropic family – How did you come to be involved with Jacob’s Ladder and other charitable endeavours ?

An integral part of having a Bar Mitzvah at our synagogue, Temple Emanu-El, is participating in a charitable endeavour and reporting about it the day of your bar mitzvah. I chose to work with the CNIB. I spent every Sunday for a year with a blind boy, Enrico Frenchella. My father would drive me to their home and we would play games, talk and get to know each other. It was a great bonding experience for my father and I but it also laid the foundation for a life that would include philanthropic endeavours as a major part of my life.

What does your affiliation with Jacob’s Ladder and (Jake’s Gigantic Give specifically) bring to you?

As individuals and as a corporation, Harvey Kalles Real Estate, we are honoured to be part of what we believe is one of the most meaningful and important charitable organizations in this country. It brings us joy and fulfillment to help in any way we can

What does giving mean to you?

It is a privilege to be able to give back to the community financially and with our time. It is also a responsibility that we take seriously.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Being surrounded by friends and family.

Which living person do you most admire?

Both my parents. They taught all of us through their actions, the importance of giving back

Who are your heroes in real life?

People like Ellen levy who have made a difference in the community and the world

What is your dream job?

I am in it

What is the natural talent you would like to be gifted with?

Roger Federer’s tennis skills