Building Philanthropy One Block at a Time

Physicians interact with patients and families first hand and see the impact of philanthropy.

They know the people, technology and discovery that impacts children’s lives at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. With a front row seat, it is difficult to not notice how the generosity of others affects everyone.

It started with a small group of physicians who were already involved with the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation. Led by Stephen Kennedy, M.D., a hospitalist, in mid-2015 the Physician Philanthropic Committee decided their colleagues were ready for a giving society all of their own.

“No one knows the needs of our patients and their families better than the physicians caring for them,” Kennedy says. “Every time a physician gives back, he or she ensures that children are able to receive the right care when they need it.”

Over the next six months the pieces would start to fall into place–or rather, the blocks.

The Building Blocks Society officially began welcoming members in January of 2016. From 12 members at the start, it has grown in just over two years to more than 60 participating physicians and there are plans to extend the invitation to community physicians within the next year.