Pat Levin
People think of the Community Foundation as just for people. But there’s a lot there for animals too. I don’t know many people who don’t like pets.
Pat Levin has forged a lifelong connection with animals. Early in her childhood, she remembers playing in the grass at her family’s farm while rabbits hopped around her feet. She considers animals of all kinds to be creatures worthy of protection and dignity.
Pat was the first in her family to attend college, earning a nursing degree from the University of Illinois. She worked hard, paying her way through school with loans, scholarships, and jobs. She made her way to Lancaster County after her husband got a job in Pennsylvania, where they settled in an old farmhouse, surrounded by acres of lush, beautiful land. Pat established herself in the community, finding things she liked about her new home and things she hoped to help change.
After a divorce left her with some money, Pat’s financial advisor encouraged her to open a donor advised fund through the Lancaster County Community Foundation, recognizing her love for animals and community causes. Pat decided her fund would contribute to animal rescue and welfare organizations, especially small and under-recognized ones.
“People think of the Community Foundation as just for people. But there’s a lot there for animals too,” Pat said. “I don’t know many people who don’t like pets.”
Pat holds a deep belief in the bond between people and animals, often volunteering with organizations like Raven Ridge Wildlife Center. She believes that, while animal welfare is often overlooked in traditional philanthropic circles, it’s a cause that has the potential to unite people.
For Pat, creative ideas are just as important as the funds to fulfill them. She has a vision for how community members could generously care for pets and the people who love them.
“When inflation hit, older people who could barely get by gave up their pets and that broke my heart,” Pat said. “I always thought it would be a great organization, adopting a pet for someone who can’t afford it, instead of taking them away.”
A textile artist, Pat also dreams of launching “Artists for Animals,” an art auction featuring local artists contributing work to raise funds for animal care.
Through her donor advised fund, Pat hopes she can continue to raise awareness and establish resources for shelters, wildlife rescues, and pet owners alike.
Learn more about giving through through the Community Foundation here.
