# Faces of Philanthropy ## Posts - [Shaquille O'Neal](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/shaquille-oneal/): Shaquille O’Neal, a towering figure both on and off the basketball court, has made a significant impact as a philanthropist throughout his career. Beyond his legendary status as an NBA superstar, O’Neal has dedicated himself to various charitable endeavors aimed at uplifting communities, supporting education, and promoting health and wellness. His philanthropic journey reflects a deep commitment to giving back, driven by personal experiences and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Through his foundation and numerous partnerships, O’Neal continues to inspire many with his unwavering support for those in need, demonstrating that true greatness... - [Cristiano Ronaldo](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/cristiano-ronaldo/): For years, the name Cristiano Ronaldo has been synonymous with exceptional athletic prowess, dazzling footwork, and an unwavering drive for victory. His trophy cabinet is overflowing, his records appear unbreakable, and his global fame rivals that of any superstar. Yet, beyond the stadium lights and the roar of the crowd lies a lesser-known but equally significant aspect of the Portuguese icon: his remarkable commitment to philanthropy. Away from the public eye, Ronaldo has quietly established himself as one of the most generous athletes in the world, leveraging his vast platform and personal wealth to bring hope and tangible change to... - [Colby Leachman](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/colby-leachman/): Full Swell Consulting, founded by innovator and entrepreneur Colby Leachman, represents a groundbreaking approach to merging passion with purpose in today’s fast-paced market. With a strong commitment to community engagement and sustainability, Full Swell seeks to redefine industry standards while delivering exceptional products and services. Colby, an experienced investor and advocate, brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique vision to the enterprise, propelling it into a future where business success aligns with social responsibility. Full Swell Consulting operates at the intersection of emerging markets, transformative technology, and social impact. The firm’s work is anchored by three primary areas of... - [Michael Bloomberg](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/michael-bloomberg/): Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor of New York City and billionaire businessman, has made significant contributions to philanthropy through his extensive charitable works. With a commitment to addressing pressing social issues, Bloomberg has focused his efforts on education, public health, environmental sustainability, and the arts. Through Bloomberg Philanthropies, he has supported a wide range of initiatives that aim to improve lives both locally and globally. This article explores the breadth and impact of Michael Bloomberg’s charitable endeavors, examining key programs and the philosophy that drives his philanthropic vision. At the heart of Michael Bloomberg’s philanthropic philosophy lies a commitment to... - [Drew Brees](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/drew-brees/): Drew Brees, the legendary quarterback known for his record-breaking performances on the football field, has also made a significant impact off the field through his philanthropic efforts. Since his retirement from the NFL, Brees has dedicated much of his time and resources to charitable initiatives that aim to improve the lives of individuals and communities in need. Through the Brees Dream Foundation and various partnerships with nonprofit organizations, he has championed causes such as education, health care, and youth development. For Brees, philanthropy isn’t just a side gig; it’s personal. Growing up in a supportive family with strong values laid... - [David Osborne Austin Texas](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/david-osborne-austin-texas/): David Osborne: Austin’s Quiet Leader in Finance and Community Austin, TX — As Austin continues its transformation from a laid-back capital city into one of the nation’s fastest-growing hubs of technology, culture, and entrepreneurship, certain individuals have emerged as steady voices of experience. Among them is David Osborne, a financial advisor whose influence extends beyond markets and investment portfolios. Known both for his decades-long career in wealth management and his deep commitment to education and civic engagement, Osborne has become a fixture in the community—someone whose leadership is defined as much by service as it is by professional success. David... - [Alex von Furstenberg](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/alex-von-furstenberg/): Private equity financier and philanthropist Alex von Furstenberg is the son of fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg (creator of the iconic wrap dress) and Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a Swiss nobleman who is also a fashion designer. A skilled financier, Alex von Furstenberg led the restructuring of Diane von Furstenberg Studio, LP, elevating the company’s annual revenues from $1 million to more than $200 million. Alex von Furstenberg remains a Partner and Director with Diane von Furstenberg Studio, LP. Alex von Furstenberg is also a Co-Managing Member and Chief Investment Officer of Arrow Capital Management, LLC. As director and secretary of the Diller – von Furstenberg... - [Angelina Jolie](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/angelina-jolie/): Angelina Jolie is an inspiring model in philanthropy. The Los Angeles, California-born celebrity is ranked as the 3rd highest actress in the Forbes Celebrity 100. The exclusive list of the entertainment industry’s most powerful, rich, and famous also notes her number 1 position in the web. Only one thing about her can possibly eclipse her stellar career as a critically acclaimed actress: the fact that she is an influential philanthropist and an internationally respected humanitarian. With her equally high-profile ex-partner Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie donated more than $8.5 million to their Jolie-Pitt Foundation in 2006 alone. Among the recipient charitable organizations are Global... - [Michael Jordan](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/michael-jordan/): Michael Jordan is acknowledged by innumerable fans to be the greatest basketball player of all time. Fondly called “Air Jordan” and “His Airness” by his countless fans, Michael Jordan’s exceptional leaping ability and his uncanny to continually score made him a crowd favorite, and he was instrumental in popularizing the NBA around the world. After retirement, Michael Jordan has been active in business and humanitarian work, having made various contributions to charity to support children, family issues and disaster relief. He has auctioned off some of his basketball equipment and memorabilia for charity and holds the Michael Jordan Golf Invitational to raise funds.... - [Isaac “Ike” Behar](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/isaac-ike-behar-philanthropy/): Humanitarian, philanthropist, and clothier Isaac “Ike” Behar is the founder of and visionary behind the renowned IKE BEHAR clothing line. Behar is also a long-time supporter of the Latin Auxiliary of Douglas Gardens, an influential group of community members who support programs at Miami Jewish Health Systems, a non-for-profit healthcare organization in Miami which is near and dear to Ike Behar’s heart. Miami Beach resident Ike Behar grew up in pre-revolutionary Cuba where, as the son of one of Havana’s finest tailors, he learned the art of custom shirt tailoring. At age 20, he left Havana with $50 in his pocket and... - [Sir Henry Solomon Wellcome ](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/henry-wellcome-philanthropy/): Born August 21, 1853, Sir Henry Solomon Wellcome was an American-British pharmaceutical entrepreneur. Along with colleague Silas Burroughs, Wellcome started a pharmaceutical company called Burroughs Wellcome & Co. which would become the leader in innovation and medical research. Although today there are numerous laboratories and research facilities testing medications, in the 1890s Wellcome was truly a pioneer in his approach to medical research. Rather than focus on commercial success for monetary gains, he and his scientists were committed to the advancement of knowledge for the sake of the public’s health. After Wellcome’s death in 1936, his will provided for the creation of... - [Christy Walton](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/christy-walton/): Entering into a family with a long line of well-known generous advocates, Christy Walton held her own as a distinguished member of the Walton legacy. Profiled by Condé Nast Portfolio magazine in The Giving Index, she ranked as the highest female philanthropist according to the amount she gives as a percentage of her wealth. At a then estimated $16.3 billion net worth, she contributed a total of $3.5 million cumulatively between 2002 and 2006. She is actively serving in numerous non-profit organizations, such as the national association of trustees and staff, corporate giving officers, and individual donors – The Philanthropy Roundtable. Together... - [Sidney Kimmel](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/sidney-kimmel/): Born and raised in Philadelphia, Sidney Kimmel attended Temple University and soon worked for a clothing firm that was jointly owned by his brother, where he rose to become the president of the company. In 1970, he founded and served as the CEO of Jones Apparel Group Inc. from 1975 to 2002. Jones Apparel Group Inc. is a leading American fashion firm that designs, markets, and sells branded garments, shoes, and accessories, which now carries labels including Jones New York, Lauren and Evan-Picone, Nine-West Group, Inc., Victoria Jewelry, and Polo Jeans. Sidney Kimmel is a partner in Cipriani International, which is an... - [Irwin Jacobs](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/irwin-jacobs/): Irwin M. Jacobs is a scientist and the co-founder and chairman of Qualcomm. As a scientist and businessman, Dr. Irwin Jacobs has made several contributions to technology. As a philanthropist, he has served by contributing his wealth to education and the arts. Irwin Jacobs’ wrote the seminal textbook Principles of Communication Engineering in 1965, a textbook that pioneered important concepts in communication engineering. As an engineer, Mr. Jacobs helped popularize the use of CDMA technology as a means of transmitting voice and data through wireless networks. Because of this technology, wireless communication has become accessible to people across the globe. Irwin Jacobs has... - [David H. Koch](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/david-h-koch/): David Koch is co-owner and executive vice president of Koch Industries, a Wichita, Kansas-based oil, gas, and plastics conglomerate. Koch Industries is now the largest privately-held company in the United States, producing annual revenues of more than $95 billion. Born in 1940, he inherited (along with his brothers) the bulk of his father’s company later to acquire a personal fortune of around $3.1 billion, making him the 116th richest person in 2004 according to Forbes magazine. Over the years, David Koch has become a notable philanthropist, known for his largesse in supporting non-profit organizations that focus on cancer and medical research, enhancement of... - [Henry Kravis](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/henry-kravis/): Apart from dealing in corporate mergers and takeovers, private equity mogul Henry Kravis, co-founder of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, also takes time to do his share of social responsibility. Most of his charitable endeavors are focused on education, medical and health services, and social and community development. Henry Kravis provides the funds of the Henry Kravis Leadership Institute, an organization that sponsors the programs and training for future leaders of Claremont McKenna College, Kravis’s alma mater. Kravis also donated large amount of money for the construction of several facilities in the following academic institutions: • Eaglebrook School• Deerfield Academy• The Loomis Chaffee School... - [Richard Li](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/richard-li/): Richard Li Tzar Kai is the Chairman of PCCW, the largest telecommunication company in Hong Kong and a leader in Asia’s information technology services industry. Richard Li is a member of the Global Information Infrastructure Commission, the Center for Strategic and International Studies’ International Councilors Group in Washington, D.C., a Council Member of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Computer Society. In 2003, the severe acute respiratory syndrome virus (SARS) devastated Asia and spread to 29 countries around the world, resulting in quarantines, travel restrictions, hysteria, and an estimated 774 deaths. Under the direction of Richard Li, PCCW rose to the aid of... - [Kenneth Langone](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/kenneth-langone/): Kenneth Langone is best known as the co-founder of Home Depot. Born to working class parents in Roslyn Heights, New York, Ken Langone achieved his BA from Bucknell University and his MBA from NYU. As an investment banker, Ken Langone achieved notoriety when he took Electronic Data Systems, INC. public in 1968 at 118 percent earnings. In 1974, Ken Langone founded investment banking firm Invemed Associates, Inc. and bought his first seat on the New York Stock Exchange. In 1978, he partnered with Bernard Marcus and Arthur Blank to found Home Depot, which today is one of the largest and most successful... - [Ron Perelman](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/ron-perelman/): With Warren Buffet, Bill Gates and Hank Greenberg as philanthropic role models, it comes as no surprise that Ronald Perelman would follow in their footsteps in being the change people wish to see in the world. Over the years, Ron Perelman has been consistently on the rise as he moved from 104th in 2007 to 87th in 2008 and finally 35th on the Forbes World’s Richest People in 2009. His net worth is estimated at $10 billion as of 2008. Cumulatively, from 2002-2006, he has contributed $65.4 million to various non-profit organizations. A remarkable deed on his part involved giving $70 million in... - [Samuel Truett Cathy](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/samuel-truett-cathy-philanthropy/): Samuel Truett Cathy is the founder and current chairman of the quick-service restaurant chain Chick-fil-A. The Atlanta, Georgia-based restaurant chain is famous in the state for specializing in various chicken entrées. Prior to becoming one of the giants in the restaurant industry, Samuel Cathy formerly worked for the Dwarf Grill. Aside from his prominence in the fast-food chain industry, Samuel Truett Cathy is also famous for his numerous donations and contributions to charity. The entrepreneur’s idea of service goes beyond just selling boneless chicken sandwiches. Samuel Truett Cathy is also a philanthropist; he has dedicated much of his time and money... - [Philip Anschutz](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/philip-anschutz/): Philip Frederick Anschutz began working his way to success by taking after his father in the lucrative wildcatting business. His first test happened when his initial oil find in Gillette, Wyoming caught fire. What the resilient Philip Anschutz did was charge Universal Studios, which was filming a biopic on Red Adair, $100,000 for the right to put out the fire that they needed in a crucial scene. He then went on to discover another significantly bigger wildcat find in Utah that placed him and his father in the $500 million bracket when it produced one billion barrels. By 1976, Philip Anschutz had titles... - [Chuck Norris](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/chuck-norris/): Chuck Norris is not only popular as an action superstar, but as a philanthropist as well. Well-loved and famous for his action roles in films such as Hitman, Delta Force, and Missing in Action, Carlos Ray Norris, aka Chuck Norris, is also actively involved in various charitable causes such as youth, children, and veterans’ welfare. Chuck Norris extends his time and energy to works for charities like Funds for Kids, Veteran’s Administration National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, the United Way, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, contributing in the form of donations and fundraising activities. Being a former member of the United States Air Force stationed... - [Paul Newman](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/paul-newman/): Paul Leonard Newman was an American actor, film director, entrepreneur, and auto racing enthusiast. He starred in films like The Color of Money, The Hustler, Hud, and co-starred with Tom Hanks in the 2002 film Road to Perdition. He won several awards, including an Academy Award for his performance in the 1986 Martin Scorsese film The Color of Money and eight other nominations, three Golden Globe Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Cannes Film Festival Award, an Emmy award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and many honorary awards. Apart from his individual achievements, Paul Newman was also a philanthropist dedicating in channeling most of... - [Warren Buffett](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/warren-buffett/): Warren Buffett, renowned for his exceptional skill in reallocating capital for successful investments, initially planned to engage in philanthropy posthumously. However, following the passing of his wife, Susan, he began to actively participate in charitable giving, which has since become a significant aspect of his legacy. Buffett’s philanthropic journey gained momentum when he was ranked #3 on BusinessWeek’s list of Top 50 U.S. Philanthropists. This accolade came after he inherited $2.5 billion in Berkshire Hathaway stock from his wife Susan, which was donated to the Buffett Foundation. Subsequently renamed the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, it focuses on reproductive choice and... - [Ted Turner](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/ted-turner/): Ted Turner, widely renowned as the founder of CNN, the world’s first 24-hour cable news network, also made significant strides in the media industry by founding TBS and introducing the superstation concept. His ownership of the Atlanta Braves, bolstered by his media networks, catapulted the team to national popularity. In the realm of philanthropy, Turner’s contributions are as substantial as his media ventures. He established the United Nations Foundation with a groundbreaking $1 billion pledge to support the United Nations, with the ambitious goal of promoting global peace, prosperity, and justice. Beyond this, Turner heads the Turner Foundation, an organization... - [Richard Fields](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/richard-fields/): Richard Fields, a native New Yorker, has made his mark through successful ventures in Indian gaming and casino developments. Beyond his business acumen, Fields is also known for his ranching pursuits, being the owner of Jackson Land and Cattle in Jackson, Wyoming. Fields has a strong commitment to philanthropic causes, particularly those aimed at supporting underprivileged and neglected children. His philanthropic involvement is extensive, including support for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Good Shepherd Services, organizations dedicated to protecting and aiding vulnerable children. In addition to these, he plays a significant role in nurturing local youth... - [Pierre Omidyar](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/pierre-omidyar/): Pierre Omidyar, born in Paris to Iranian parents, pursued a degree in computer science at Tufts University before contributing to the development of MacDraw at Claris. Omidyar is globally recognized as the founder of eBay, the revolutionary online auction platform that embodies a near-ideal free market system. Following eBay’s remarkable success, he and his wife Pam established the Omidyar Foundation to support various non-profit initiatives. The Omidyar Network, another of Omidyar’s philanthropic ventures, goes beyond the scope of the Omidyar Foundation. Functioning as a philanthropic investment firm, it uniquely invests in both profit-making businesses and non-profits, prioritizing ventures that integrate... - [Peter Lynch](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/peter-lynch/): Peter Lynch, widely celebrated for his exceptional stock selection skills at Fidelity Investments, embarked on his illustrious career after caddying for the president of Fidelity and other influential individuals. He notably steered a fund that boasted an impressive average annual return of 29.2% since its inception. In the realm of philanthropy, Lynch’s contributions are diverse and impactful. He donates personally and through various channels, including the Lynch Foundation, Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, and two charitable trusts. The Lynch Foundation is particularly known for its support of religious, educational, and cultural/historic institutions. Lynch’s philanthropic strategy is unique; he focuses on backing... - [Peter Lewis](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/peter-lewis/): Peter Lewis, who transformed a small Cleveland insurance firm into a significantly larger enterprise through one of the first leveraged buyouts (LBOs) in history, is not only known for his business acumen but also for his substantial contributions to philanthropy. Over three decades, Lewis grew the company from a 100-employee operation to one employing 14,000, achieving this remarkable growth without major acquisitions. In the realm of higher education, Lewis has been a generous benefactor. He donated $37 million to the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University, significantly impacting business education and research. His philanthropic efforts extend to... - [Naveen Jain](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/naveen-jain/): Naveen Jain, a renowned entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Intelius, is widely recognized for his visionary business acumen. A graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology in 1979, Jain worked as a senior executive at Microsoft Corporation before founding Intelius in 2003. His entrepreneurial achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of the Top 20 Entrepreneurs by Red Herring, receiving the Albert Einstein Technology Medal, and being honored as the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007. In addition to his business success, Jain is a sought-after keynote speaker and panelist at business... - [Michael Dell](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/michael-dell/): Michael Dell, a native of Houston, Texas, displayed an early interest in technology, famously disassembling and reassembling an Apple II computer at the age of fifteen. After graduating from high school, Dell enrolled at The University of Texas at Austin, initially studying biology. It was during his time at university, in his Dobie dorm room, that he started a computer company, laying the groundwork for what would become Dell, Inc. Michael Dell, along with his wife Susan, established the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, a significant force in philanthropy with an endowment of over one billion dollars. This foundation is... - [Lance Armstrong](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/lance-armstrong/): Lance Armstrong, a globally recognized competitive cyclist and seven-time Tour de France champion, hails from Plano, Texas, where he demonstrated his athletic prowess early on, winning the Iron Kids Triathlon at the age of 13. His career faced a significant hurdle when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, but Armstrong overcame this challenge, returning to win his first Tour de France title in 1999. Armstrong’s experience with cancer led him to focus on philanthropy, particularly in supporting cancer research and advocacy. He was instrumental in developing the Livestrong wristband concept in partnership with Nike in 2004. This initiative, which combined... - [Jimmy Carter](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/jimmy-carter/): James Carter Jr., the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, has been a prominent figure in the realm of human rights and social justice both during and after his presidency. Before becoming president, Carter, a former peanut farmer, served as the Democratic governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975. His presidency was marked by a strong emphasis on human rights advocacy. Following his presidency, Carter has dedicated himself to various humanitarian causes, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his ongoing efforts in peace and disease prevention programs. One of Carter’s most visible philanthropic involvements... - [Gordon Moore](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/gordon-moore/): Gordon Moore, widely recognized as the co-founder of Intel and the originator of Moore’s Law, has also made significant contributions to philanthropy alongside his notable achievements in technology. After completing his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, and earning his PhD from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Moore went on to have a remarkable career in the technology sector. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Moore, together with his wife Betty, established the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. This foundation focuses on three primary areas: science, environmental conservation, and higher education. Its approach is distinctive in targeting outcome-based projects... - [George Soros](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/george-soros/): George Soros, originally from Budapest, Hungary (not Germany), has been a significant figure in global finance and philanthropy. He gained fame in the financial world, particularly for his role in “breaking the Bank of England” during the currency crisis on Black Wednesday in 1992. Beyond his financial acumen, Soros is renowned for his extensive philanthropic work, primarily conducted through the Open Society Institute and the Soros Foundations. The Open Society Institute, under Soros’ guidance, is dedicated to fostering open societies globally by supporting democratic governance, human rights, and various forms of economic, legal, and social reform. This organization reflects Soros’... - [Eli Broad](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/eli-broad/): Eli Broad, a prominent developer known for founding two Fortune 500 companies, SunAmerica and KB Homes (originally Kaufman Broad Homes), has been a transformative figure in philanthropy, particularly in the fields of education and the arts. Residing in Los Angeles, Broad is not only a business luminary but also an active participant in initiatives aimed at revitalizing the city’s downtown area. In 1999, Broad and his wife, Edythe, founded The Broad Education Foundation, committing over $500 million to foster new ideas and innovative leadership in urban school systems. A key component of this foundation is the Broad Prize for Urban... - [David Rockefeller](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/david-rockefeller/): David Rockefeller, the youngest and last surviving grandson of John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil, has carved out a significant legacy in philanthropy, following in the footsteps of his forebears. After serving in the army, Rockefeller pursued academic excellence, earning a PhD from the University of Chicago—an institution established by the Rockefeller family. He then embarked on a successful banking career at Chase Manhattan Bank, paralleling his dedication to philanthropy. One of Rockefeller’s notable philanthropic contributions is the establishment of The David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies at Harvard University, his alma mater. His original donation of... - [Bill Gates](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/bill-gates/): Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft alongside Paul Allen, is not just renowned for his technological innovations and role in revolutionizing the personal computer industry with the Windows operating system. Beyond his corporate achievements, Gates is equally recognized for his extensive philanthropic work, making him one of the world’s most prominent charitable figures. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a leading non-profit organization in global development, stands at the forefront of his philanthropic endeavors. With an endowment of $31.9 billion, the foundation has provided over $11 billion in grants since its inception in 1994. Notably, in 2006, Warren Buffet augmented... - [Ben Barnes](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/ben-barnes/): Ben Barnes, a distinguished political consultant, began his career in public service at a remarkably young age. During his time at the University of Texas, he made his foray into politics by winning a seat in the Texas State House of Representatives. His political journey saw him rise to the prominent positions of Texas State House Speaker and later, Lieutenant Governor of Texas. Barnes’ commitment to public service extends beyond his political career into various philanthropic endeavors, particularly in the Austin area. He is actively involved with numerous local public interest organizations, demonstrating a deep commitment to community development and... - [Andrew Carnegie](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/andrew-carnegie/): Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist who amassed a vast fortune in the US steel and railroad industries, is renowned not just for his business acumen but also for his extensive philanthropic work. A proponent of the belief that the wealthy have a moral obligation to redistribute their fortune for the public good, Carnegie’s legacy is deeply entwined with his generous contributions to various causes, particularly in education and scientific research. Carnegie’s passion for education led him to invest significantly in the establishment of libraries, schools, and universities both in the United States and around the world. In a groundbreaking move... - [Al Gore](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/al-gore/): Al Gore, a prominent figure in American politics and environmental activism, has an extensive history of public service and philanthropy. Known for his tenure as Vice President under President Bill Clinton, Gore, a Democrat from Tennessee, has been deeply involved in environmental issues, particularly global climate change and environmental policy, for decades. After his narrow defeat in the 2000 presidential election, he remained active in academia and public speaking, accepting visiting professorships at various prestigious institutions including Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, Middle Tennessee State University, UCLA, and Fisk University. Gore’s work in raising awareness about climate change was... - [Ashley Judd](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/ashley-judd/): Golden Globe-nominated actress Ashley Judd is best known for her tough female characters in movies such as Double Jeopardy, High Crimes, and Kiss the Girls. Judd’s real name is Ashley Tyler Ciminella. She was born to parents Naomi Judd and Michael Ciminella. Ashley Judd has spent most of her time among the ill and sexually exploited in Third World countries since becoming a global ambassador for YouthAIDS. This foundation is a prevention program under the Population Service International, where Ashley Judd has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2004. Being the humanitarian that she is, Judd has traveled to Cambodia, Kenya, Rwanda, and... - [Rosie O'Donnell](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/rosie-odonnell/): Roseanna “Rosie” O’Donnell is a successful and popular comedian and television host. A versatile artist, Rosie O’Donnell is also an actress, singer, author, magazine editor, television producer, and an activist for LGBT rights. Apart from being a popular comedian and an opinionated liberal who has her own mind, Rosie O’Donnell has earned a reputation in charitable philanthropy for her work with children. As a mother of three adopted children, she would attribute her persistent advocacy for children’s welfare to her difficult childhood, having lost both parents to cancer at an early age. In 1996, she used $3 million of the advance for her... - [Jet Li](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/jet-li/): One of the famous Asian actors to have landed a career in the American film industry is Li Lianjie, otherwise known as Jet Li, a wushu champion and martial artist from Beijing, China. He starred in several Asian and American films such as Shaolin Temple, the Once Upon A Time in China series, Lethal Weapon 4, Tai Chi Master, Romeo Must Die, The Forbidden Kingdom and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Apart from engaging in film and martial arts, Jet Li began getting involved in the Red Cross Society of China as its “philanthropic ambassador” in 2006. He donated 500,000 Yuan (or $62,500) of box office profits from... - [Jada Pinkett Smith](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/jada-pinkett-smith/): Jada Koren Pinkett-Smith, who was born on September 18th, 1971, is famous in the film (producer, actor and director), music (singer-songwriter) and business industry. However, her efforts are not limited to these areas, as she is also a philanthropist. She and her husband, Will Smith (actor and singer-songwriter), formed the Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Jada and Will’s Foundation supports urban inner-city youth. It was given the David Angell Humanitarian Award by the ASA (American Screenwriters Association) in 2006 in recognition of the foundation’s projects that focus on education, violence prevention and family wellbeing. In... - [Tyra Banks](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/tyra-banks-philanthropy/): Tyra Lynne Banks is a well-known media personality, businesswoman, singer, and actress, although she is best known for her career as a model. Born on the 4th of December 1973, Tyra Banks is the founder and host of the CW reality TV show, America’s Next Top Model; host of her own TV talk show, The Tyra Banks Show; as well as the co-creator of True Beauty. Raised in Inglewood, California, she joined the Elite Model Management agency during her senior year in high school. Over the years, Tyra Banks became the recipient of numerous recognitions. She was hailed as the Supermodel... - [Jackie Chan](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/jackie-chan/): Born on April 7, 1954, Chan Kong-sang, better known as Jackie Chan, is a Hong Kong comedian, actor, director, philanthropist, stuntman, producer, martial artist, screenwriter, and singer. In his films, Chan is famous for his acrobatic innovative fighting feats strung with improvised weapons and comic timing. He has been in the film industry since the 1960s and has starred in more than 100 films. Chan has been revered as a respected star and cultural icon in the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hong Kong Avenue of Stars. In 1988, he founded the Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation, a philanthropic organization that gives out scholarships... - [Matt Damon](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/matt-damon/): Born October 8, 1970 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Matt Damon launched his acting career from the film he co-wrote with Ben Affleck, Good Will Hunting. Since its release in 1997, he has starred in such box office hits as Saving Private Ryan, The Bourne Identity, and Invictus. He has won an Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, and garnered 17 other award nominations. Throughout all of this, though, he has maintained his steady and generous philanthropic endeavor. He has not only donated funding but also played a role in founding a number of celebrity charities. Damon co-founded H2O Africa, its name changed to Water.org in 2009,... - [Jonathan Lipnicki](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/jonathan-lipnicki-philanthropy/): Jonathan Lipnicki may be best known for his role as the adorably bespectacled kid in the Oscar-winning film Jerry Macguire, but that’s not what he wants to be remembered for. Instead, the actor is working to make sure his legacy lies more in charitable contributions than childhood movie roles. The little boy from the movie is all grown up now: At 19, Lipnicki has become a speaker for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and is actively involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Starlight Children Foundation and the NBA’s Read to Achieve program. In fact, JDRF named Lipnicki one... - [Leonardo DiCaprio](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/leonardo-dicaprio/): In the world of glittering lights and cinematic glory, few stars shine with a purpose beyond the silver screen as resolutely as Leonardo DiCaprio. From his heartthrob days in 1997’s “Titanic,” which carved his name in the annals of Hollywood royalty, DiCaprio has evolved into not just an acclaimed actor but also a dedicated philanthropist and environmental activist. In the wake of “Titanic,” the world witnessed DiCaprio’s burgeoning commitment to bettering society. He demonstrated an early affinity for philanthropy with a generous $35,000 donation to establish the Leonardo DiCaprio Computer Center in the Los Feliz branch of the Los Angeles... - [George Clooney](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/george-clooney/): George Clooney, renowned for his acting prowess and charismatic presence in Hollywood, has also made significant contributions through his philanthropic endeavors, extending far beyond his on-screen persona. Clooney’s commitment to humanitarian causes is deep and multifaceted, particularly highlighted by his active involvement in addressing the crisis in Darfur. He co-founded Not On Our Watch with his Ocean’s 11 co-stars – Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, along with producer Jerry Weintraub and David Pressman. This organization aims to combat the ongoing genocide in Sudan, where countless lives are affected by violence and conflict. Through Not On Our Watch, Clooney has... ## Pages - [](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/about/): The Power of Philanthropy Welcome to Faces of Philanthropy, a dedicated space celebrating the transformative power of philanthropy. Our mission is to shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the betterment of society through their generous giving and selfless actions. Together, let’s honor the spirit of giving and the extraordinary individuals who lead the way in making our world a better place. Pioneers of Philanthropy: Influential Figures Through the Ages The United States boasts a rich tradition of philanthropy aimed at addressing diverse societal needs. Notably, Benjamin Franklin, a key figure in the... - [Contact](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/contact/): Contact Us Thank you for your interest in connecting with us! We’re always eager to hear from our visitors, whether you have questions, suggestions, or simply want to share your thoughts about our website. Please feel free to reach out using the form below, and we will make sure to get back to you as promptly as possible. Send Me a Message - [Blog](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/blog/) - [Home](https://facesofphilanthropy.com/): Historical and Celebrity Philanthropists. We celebrate the diverse and impactful world of philanthropy! Here, we shine a spotlight on the selfless individuals who dedicate their time, talent, and treasure to create positive change for humanity. Our website is a tribute to philanthropists from all walks of life, acknowledging that generosity is not confined by wealth or status. Read About Us Contact Us Recent Activity All Activity [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)