Doris Levi found community at Hadassah. "It was always her charity," recalls Sharon Taxman, one of Doris' two daughters. Doris was deeply engaged with the Hadassah chapter in Buffalo, New York, including serving as president. She helped organize meetings and chair luncheons, galas and other fundraisers, including fashion shows, for which she modeled.
Later in life, Doris joined Hadassah chapters in Florida and New Jersey. She also went to Israel on a Hadassah mission. Outside of Hadassah, Doris enjoyed singing in the temple choir, often performing as a soloist. As a young woman, she received a scholarship to attend The Juilliard School for opera singing, but her father didn't want her to move to New York alone.
When the family was sitting shiva for Doris in 2018, they learned that Doris had left a gift to Hadassah in her will, known as a bequest. The family was moved and grateful that Doris' legacy would live on through her generosity.
Doris' gift has been used to purchase a portable X-ray machine at Hadassah Hospital at Ein Kerem in Jerusalem. "I think this is wonderful because if a patient can't get out of bed, they can bring the machine right to them," Sharon says. "It is something concrete to help other people."
For the family, Doris' gift is particularly meaningful because it continues her connection to Hadassah.
"My mom would be thrilled to know the impact her gift is having," Sharon says. "Hadassah was always in her heart."
Help Make a Lasting Impact
A gift through your will is a wonderful way to support Hadassah. Learn more by contacting Planned Giving & Estates at (800) 428-8884 or giving@hadassah.org.