The Lewis Society
History Named in honor of the founding family of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The Lewis Society was established to recognize all those who have included the Hospital in their long-term plans through a bequest, life-income gift or other planned gift. One of the Hospital's most valued groups of supporters, The Lewis Society honors the tradition of generosity and foresight that began on Thanksgiving Day in 1855 when the Hospital opened its doors for the first time. It was the young visionary, Dr. Francis West Lewis, who, during a trip to London, was so inspired by the Hospital for Sick Children on Great Ormond Street that he immediately returned to establish America's first pediatric hospital–The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. With the collaboration of two outstanding colleagues, Dr. R.A.F. Penrose and Dr. Thomas Hewson Bache, Dr. Lewis devoted himself tirelessly to the care of sick children and to advancing the mission of the Hospital until his death in 1902. Dr. Lewis' father, Mordecai D. Lewis, served as the first President of the Hospital's Board of Managers, helped to finance the Hospital in its early years, and left the first bequest to the Hospital when he died. And, Dr. Lewis' two sisters, the Misses Lewis, gave a transforming gift to the Hospital upon the death of their beloved brother. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia bears the indelible marks of the Lewis Family and its other founders to this day. Their commitment to sick and injured infants and children is perpetuated in every commitment made by members of The Lewis Society today. We invite you to join us in continuing their legacy. How to Join
If you have already included the Hospital in a bequest or other planned gift, we hope you will let us know. Your willingness to be listed as a member of The Lewis Society encourages others to follow your example. We acknowledge and respect those who wish to remain anonymous, but we urge you to let us know of your plans on a confidential basis in any case. It supports the Hospital's planning for the future. Of course, if you have not yet included the Hospital in your plans and you would like to explore the best options for you and your family, do not hesitate to contact us. We would be glad to assist you on a confidential basis and without any obligation. Benefits of Membership We hope you will allow us to recognize you on The Lewis Society register in the main lobby of the Hospital, as well as in Hospital publications from time to time. Your presence on these lists encourages others to join in this important effort. As you are investing in the future of the Hospital, we also hope that you will accept our invitation to attend a special “members-only” gathering each year with the President and CEO, the Chair and members of the Board of Trustees, and selected Hospital physicians and researchers, to gain an inside view of the Hospital’s work, exciting discoveries and achievements, and long-term plans. As a member of The Lewis Society, you will also receive timely information, tips, and ongoing professional gift planning services from the Office of Planned Giving.
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