Draft:Victor m carter
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Victor M. Carter | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1910 Rostov-on-Don, Russia |
| Died | March 27, 2004 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, philanthropist |
| Spouse | Andra Carter |
| Children | 2 (including Fanya Carter) |
Victor M. Carter (1910 – March 27, 2004) was a Russian-American businessman and philanthropist known for his influence in the retail and film industries, and for his extensive humanitarian work in Los Angeles and internationally.
Early life and business career
[edit]Carter was born in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, and immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of 11, settling in Los Angeles. At 16, he began working in his father's hardware store. By age 19, he had founded his own steel window frame manufacturing business.
In 1949, Carter purchased Builders Emporium, a struggling building materials store in Van Nuys, California, which he transformed into the nation’s first self-service hardware chain. The company grew rapidly and became the largest of its kind in the U.S. before he sold it in 1956.
In 1959, he acquired a majority interest in Republic Pictures, then a struggling film studio. As president and CEO, he diversified the company’s operations into plastics and appliances, transforming it into Republic Corporation. He sold his interest in 1967 to focus on philanthropy.
Philanthropy and community leadership
[edit]After retiring from business, Carter became a prominent figure in community service and philanthropy. He served as president of the Jewish Federation Council and the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles. He also held leadership roles with Tel Aviv University, Ben-Gurion University, Brandeis University, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and City of Hope.
Carter advocated for civil rights and supported programs to improve relations among Los Angeles’ African-American, Latino, and Asian communities. He was instrumental in integrating the Los Angeles Fire Department and developing economic programs for underserved populations.
In 1984, United Way established the "Victor M. Carter Humanitarian Award" in his honor, and in 1987 he received the "Alexis de Tocqueville Society Award" for his commitment to racial equality.
International honors
[edit]In 1964, he was awarded the Sword of David by the Prime Minister of Israel. In 1968, he received the Third Order of the Imperial Treasure from the Emperor of Japan. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Tel Aviv University.
Personal life
[edit]In 1927, Carter married Adrea Zucker in Tijuana, Mexico. They had a daughter, Fanya, and three granddaughters, including psychologist and author Dr. Leigh Silverton. Their son, Robert David, passed away in 1946. Victor M. Carter died on March 27, 2004, at the age of 94.
Legacy
[edit]Carter’s legacy lives on through numerous community centers, scholarships, and institutions he supported. His entrepreneurial vision and commitment to social justice left a lasting mark on Southern California.
References
[edit]- "Victor M. Carter, 94; Built Builders Emporium Chain". Los Angeles Times. April 2, 2004. Retrieved June 4, 2025.
- "Victor Carter: An American Mensch". Jewish Journal. April 7, 2004. Retrieved June 4, 2025.