In the world of celebrities, it’s not uncommon for them to use their fame and fortune for philanthropic purposes. From established foundations to charity events, these famous faces are making a difference in various ways. Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting philanthropic foundations or charities established by celebrities.
First on our list is the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation. Known for his passion for environmental causes, DiCaprio founded this organization in 1998 with a mission to protect endangered species and promote environmental conservation. Over the years, he has donated millions of dollars towards projects focused on wildlife protection and climate change initiatives.
Next up is the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation. This foundation was established by media mogul Oprah Winfrey in 2007 to support her leadership academy in South Africa. The academy provides education and resources to academically talented girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have.
Another notable foundation is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – one that needs no introduction. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and his wife Melinda, this foundation focuses on improving healthcare and reducing poverty worldwide. With an endowment of over $50 billion, they have made significant contributions towards eradicating diseases like polio and malaria.
Moving on, we have the Jolie-Pitt Foundation founded by power couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt (though now operating independently after their separation). This foundation aims to alleviate extreme poverty around the world while also supporting healthcare access and human rights issues.
Lastly, we can’t forget about Bono’s ONE Campaign – an advocacy organization fighting against extreme poverty globally. Bono uses his platform as U2’s lead singer to raise awareness about global development issues while campaigning for policy changes that benefit those living in impoverished conditions.
These celebrity-founded foundations are just a small glimpse into how influential individuals are using their wealth and status for good causes. While some may argue that it’s all for show, the impact they create is undeniable. So next time you catch yourself rolling your eyes at a celebrity charity event, remember that it’s ultimately making a difference in someone’s life.