In the glitzy world of Hollywood, fame often accompanies a hefty paycheck. Celebrities amass vast fortunes through movies, brand endorsements, and public appearances. However, not all stars are content with amassing wealth for themselves. Some choose to utilize their influence and resources to create a positive impact on the world, dedicating their time and money to various charitable causes.
Let’s take a closer look at a group of A-listers who have left an indelible mark on communities worldwide, using their fame and fortune to make the world a better place.
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey’s generosity knows no bounds. Through the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, she has contributed an astounding $400 million to various causes, ensuring 75 million meals and education for 72,000 individuals in need. Her philanthropic journey began in 1997 when an episode of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’ gave birth to Oprah’s Angel Network, raising over $80 million for charitable projects worldwide. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Oprah donated more than $13 million for relief efforts, showcasing her unwavering commitment to making a real difference in times of crisis.
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Barbra Streisand
With a net worth of approximately $400 million, Barbra Streisand has consistently demonstrated her commitment to making the world a better place. She founded the Streisand Foundation in 1986, focusing on critical issues such as women’s rights, environmental preservation, voter education, and human rights. Over the years, Streisand has generously contributed nearly $16 million to various charitable causes, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and dedication.
Prince
Prince’s philanthropic legacy became evident after his passing in April 2016. Despite his private nature regarding charitable work, his ex-wife revealed that he was a “fierce philanthropist.” Among his notable contributions, Prince donated $1 million to the Harlem Children’s Zone, a non-profit organization supporting underprivileged children and families in Harlem, New York, in 2011. His generous spirit continues to inspire others.
George Michael
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The world discovered George Michael’s secret philanthropy only after his untimely passing in December 2016. Heartwarming stories of his extraordinary acts of kindness began to emerge, such as quietly providing $30,000 to a couple struggling with IVF treatment costs in 2008. He also encountered a distressed woman in a café dealing with debt, leaving her a $50,000 check with the waitress after he had departed. George Michael’s legacy reminds us of the power of anonymous acts of kindness.
John Cena
John Cena, known for his prowess in the wrestling ring, is equally renowned for his big-hearted nature. He has granted over 600 wishes to children battling life-threatening illnesses through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In 2012, Cena raised more than $1 million for breast cancer charity Susan G. Komen by advocating for the WWE to feature a pink middle rope in its rings and sell pink merchandise to raise awareness for the cause.
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Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s commitment to making a difference is exemplified through her founding of the Survivor Foundation after Hurricane Katrina, providing housing and aid to displaced families. She has also been a strong supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, donating $1.5 million in 2016 and establishing the Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund in 2020.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, the soccer sensation with a staggering net worth of over $500 million, is as generous as he is talented. He serves as an ambassador for multiple charities, including Save the Children, UNICEF, and World Vision. Ronaldo has a history of generously covering other people’s medical bills, such as donating $165,000 to a Portuguese cancer treatment center in 2009 and funding a 10-month-old’s brain surgery in 2014. His recent support for a seven-year-old Portuguese boy and his family facing a rare type of cancer further underscores his philanthropic spirit.
Taylor Swift
Singer and songwriter Taylor Swift’s philanthropy matches her musical talent. She has donated to a range of causes, including $1 million to Louisiana flood victims, $100,000 to Cancer Research, and $50,000 to New York City public schools in 2015. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Swift supported the World Health Organization, Feeding Africa, and even auctioned one of her signed guitars to benefit the National Health Service.
George and Amal Clooney
Amal Clooney, a renowned human rights lawyer, and her husband, actor George Clooney, co-founded the Clooney Foundation for Justice in 2016. In response to the 2017 white nationalist violence in Charlottesville, they donated $1 million to the Southern Poverty Law Center to combat hate crimes.
Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie has been actively involved in refugee missions since 2001 and holds the role of Special Envoy to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. She created the Jolie-Pitt Foundation with her ex-husband Brad Pitt to support global humanitarian causes, with a strong focus on women’s rights and education.
Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus, known for her philanthropy, founded the Happy Hippy Foundation in 2014 to assist homeless youth, LGBTQ+ youth, and other vulnerable groups. She has raised substantial funds through auctions, such as selling paintings based on Caitlyn Jenner’s Vanity Fair cover.
Meryl Streep
Renowned actress Meryl Streep quietly supports charitable organizations through the Silver Mountain Foundation for the Arts, donating $4 million to various causes. Her contributions to organizations like the Coalition for the Homeless and aid for Beirut blast victims highlight her commitment to improving the world.
John Legend and Chrissy Teigen
This power couple contributes not only to their careers but also to worthy causes. John Legend’s Show Me campaign strives to break the cycle of poverty and provide quality education to children in these circumstances. Chrissy Teigen once donated nearly $6,000 to help a fan afford beauty school tuition. The couple has long been strong advocates for change, constantly working towards creating a better future for others.
Elton John
The legendary singer and composer, Elton John, has been a philanthropic powerhouse since 1986. After losing two friends to AIDS, he established the Elton John AIDS Foundation. This organization has raised over $600 million to support HIV-related programs in 55 countries, thanks in part to John’s annual White Tie and Tiara Ball, where he auctions off memorabilia, including pianos he’s played. Elton John’s dedication to fighting AIDS serves as a shining example of how celebrities can use their fame to combat pressing global issues.
In a world often enamored with glitz and glamour, these celebrities remind us that fame and fortune can be powerful tools for positive change. Their selflessness and commitment to making the world a better place inspire us all to do our part in creating a brighter future for those in need.
