The Jefferson Educational Society was created as a non-profit organization with the Pennsylvania Department of State on September 29, 2008. Its mission includes a commitment to operate in a bi-partisan, non-denominational manner without a political or philosophical bias. As such, the Jefferson Educational Society follows the examined truth wherever it leads and is neither liberal nor conservative, democrat nor republican in philosophy or in preference. The Jefferson Educational Society promotes civic enlightenment and community progress for the Erie region through the study, research, and discussion of those ideas and events that have influenced the human condition.