Harold Grinspoon is the founder of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF).

Born in 1929 in Newton, Massachusetts, Harold was teased as a young boy for being one of the few Jewish youths in town. The anti-Semitic insults he endured and the subsequent events of World War II and the Holocaust left an indelible mark that would shape his worldview as both an entrepreneur and philanthropist.

In the early 1960s, Harold’s life changed when he purchased a dilapidated two-family home with money borrowed from an in-law. He repaired the house, rented it out for a profit, and launched a career in real estate that has spanned six decades.

In 1978, Harold met Diane Troderman, a former high school teacher who would become his wife and partner in Jewish charitable giving. A battle with tongue cancer in the 1980s had a dramatic impact on Harold and instilled a desire to find meaning beyond profit making. Harold, who credits his Jewish heritage and the values of Judaism as instrumental in his business success, chose to give back – investing his time, money, and energy into strengthening the Jewish community.

The Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF) was established in 1991 with the mission of enhancing Jewish life. The Foundation's philosophy is infused with Harold’s business acumen: visionary ideas, dynamic partnerships, a focus on return on investment, and a drive to understand and meet the needs of people served. To date, the Foundation has invested more than $200 million dollars in Jewish causes, developing successful partnerships with Jewish communal organizations and fellow philanthropists to achieve best results.

In addition to his work with the Foundation, Harold has served as a founding partner and board member for numerous national and international organizations.

In May 2015, Harold joined Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates in signing The Giving Pledge, a commitment to dedicate the majority of his wealth to philanthropy.

Harold’s passions extend well beyond real estate and Jewish philanthropy. Known for his love of long walks and hiking, he also enjoys dancing, Pilates, and meditation. His passion for the arts find expression in an extensive collection that includes his own work with a series of tree sculptures.

Harold and Diane travel extensively around the world. Between them they have several awards and honorary degrees, as well as six children and eleven grandchildren.