8 July 2026
A Longstanding Commitment to Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice
For more than a decade, Gary Landesberg and his family have been part of the Noah’s Ark story.
A founding member of the Philanthropy and Corporate Board and former Chair of Major Giving, Gary has helped strengthen the charity’s fundraising efforts while remaining deeply connected to its mission. A seasoned investor and philanthropist, Gary is a Partner at Mountain Capital and Principal Shareholder of The Wilde Collection. Yet when reflecting on his involvement with Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, he speaks less about financial contributions and more about the importance of giving time, perspective, and support to families facing the unimaginable.
As Noah’s Ark celebrates its 20th anniversary, Gary reflects on what first inspired his family’s support, the impact the charity has had on him, and why he believes its future is more important than ever.
How It All Began: A Family Introduction Through Friendship
Gary and his family were first introduced to Noah’s Ark through family friend Sir Jeremy Isaacs, CBE, whose vision and determination helped bring The Ark to life. “We were all quite taken aback by what he was trying to create,” Gary recalls. “My father and I decided that we would support a room at The Ark in his name, and that was really the beginning of my involvement.” Today, the Creative Room at The Ark bears the dedication: “Generously supported by the Alan Landesberg Charitable Trust”, a lasting reflection of the family’s commitment to supporting children and families who need specialist care.
A Deep Connection to Barnet and Arkley
For Gary, the decision to support Noah’s Ark was rooted both in the charity’s mission and in his family’s deep connection to the local area. “The incredible work the charity does was, of course, the main reason,” he says. “But we were also very much rooted in Arkley and Barnet. Our family has long-standing ties to the area, so supporting a charity that serves local children and families felt especially meaningful.”
The Families Behind the Mission
Over the years, what has stayed with him most are the families themselves. “Nobody wants to imagine going through the trauma that many of these parents face,” he says. “Spending time with them puts so many of life’s everyday frustrations into perspective.” The experience, he says, is a powerful reminder not to take life’s blessings for granted. “When you spend time with families who are facing such enormous challenges, it reminds you to appreciate what you have. It encourages you to focus on what really matters.”
A Place of Light in Difficult Circumstances
While many people might assume a children’s hospice is a sombre place, Gary believes visitors are often surprised by what they find when they walk through the doors of The Ark.
“People arrive expecting it to be a very difficult experience,” he says. “But what strikes you when you leave is something very different. There’s a sense of peace, tranquillity and happiness that runs throughout the building. Noah’s Ark creates light in incredibly challenging situations.”
That ability to provide comfort and support is what makes children’s hospice care so vital. “It’s a fundamental service and a safe haven for families facing circumstances nobody ever imagines they will encounter. It supports entire families, not just children. It provides somewhere they can find comfort, peace and support during the most difficult periods of their lives.”
Time, Giving, and What Matters Most
Among the many memories he has accumulated during more than ten years of support, one remains particularly special. “Building the Creative Room with my father remains incredibly meaningful,” he says. “I don’t think I could surpass that.” Yet Gary is equally passionate about another form of giving: time. “Anyone can write a cheque, but being able to contribute your time, energy and experience is hugely rewarding. You know you’re helping something that is genuinely meaningful.” That philosophy has guided his wider approach to philanthropy throughout his life. “Giving is everything. And I don’t just mean financially. Giving your time, helping raise funds, sharing your experience, supporting others, it all matters.”
The Role of Business and Community Leadership
As a member of Noah’s Ark’s Philanthropy and Corporate Board, Gary believes local business leaders have an important role to play in strengthening charitable organisations. One opportunity he highlights is engaging local businesses such as those in his own professional sphere, to think more broadly about their community impact. “One of the biggest opportunities is engaging local businesses that are already contributing to the community and encouraging them to think about how they can support causes beyond their day-to-day work. There’s so much potential for businesses to make a real difference.”
Looking Ahead: A Responsibility for the Future
Looking to the future, Gary hopes Noah’s Ark will continue to grow while inspiring a new generation of supporters. “We are all custodians of what has been created. Our responsibility is to make sure it continues for future generations.” That means continuing to build on what has already been achieved and encouraging younger supporters to become involved. “Noah’s Ark has to be here to stay. We need to bring on good young people who will carry the baton forward in years to come.”
A Sense of Pride
Asked what he is most proud of, Gary’s answer is simple.
“I’m proud to have been involved for more than a decade and to still be supporting Noah’s Ark today.”
Visit our Philanthropy page to find out more about supporting Noah's Ark.
