Ken Lewis has been directly involved with The Pittsburgh Foundation since the 1970s, when he began his career as an attorney in estate planning, litigation and administration. As a partner with the Pittsburgh office of Fox Rothschild, Lewis advises many clients who are considering donating a portion of their estate to charitable giving.

“My personal philosophy is, pick your charitable purpose. We would all like to save the environment, build a library, support the ballet, research a cure for diabetes, but we all can’t do all of those things. My own personal view is to begin with what matters to you,” said Ken.

Ken recommends The Pittsburgh Foundation to his clients because of the Foundation’s commitment to this very philosophy. The Foundation helps each donor develop and achieve his/her own personal philanthropic goals.

According to Ken, donors prefer The Pittsburgh Foundation because of its stability, efficiency and connection to the community. The Foundation’s local, community focus distinguishes it from national charitable organizations in that donors to the Foundation feel a deeper connection to the people and institutions that benefit from their generosity.

“Potential donors to the Foundation are very motivated when they learn that other people in the community are giving and that community causes are being benefited,” he said. “With the help of The Pittsburgh Foundation, you don’t have to be named Heinz, Mellon or Hillman. People just like you are doing good.”

Lewis is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He has over 30 years of experience in estate and trust law and was recently named in Best Lawyers in America 2005–2006.