(Dragana Gordic / shutterstock.com)
Celebrities- we all recognize their names, know who they are dating and are up to date on their latest projects, but how much do we know about their good doing efforts? We have compiled a list of six celebrities who are using their fame and wealth to make a difference to those around the world. Feel free to add to the list and tell us about other stars who are doing good!
1. BRAD PITT
One of the most handsome men of film, Brad Pitt is a dedicated citizen of the world. One of Pitt’s passions, aside from his lovely philanthropic Angelina Jolie, is architecture. In response to the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2007, Pitt founded the Make It Right Foundation which finances and constructs sustainable houses in New Orleans and other cities throughout the US.
OTHER CAUSES: Not On Our Watch, Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation, Mineseeker Foundation
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Brad Pitt has been nominated four times for an Academy Award.
2. OPRAH WINFREY
One of the most recognizable faces in the world, Oprah Winfrey has created a media empire that sprouted from the Oprah Show and now spans a production company, magazine and even her new OWN network. The busy lady is a strong proponent of education, women empowerment and children, focusing her efforts on funding these causes. In 1998 Oprah created a public charity, the Oprah’s Angel Network, which raised more than 80 million dollars with 100% of donations going directly to charitable projects.
OTHER CAUSES: Free the Children, Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls, Project Cuddle
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Oprah Winfrey is the only person to be included in all eight of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in the World lists from 2004 to 2011.
3. TAYLOR SWIFT
The country cross-over crooner is marking her career with a good doing edge. Swift was most recently named the most charitable celeb of 2012 for her generous contributions to the Country Hall of Fame Museum. The 23-year-old singer is also the youngest person to be awarded the prestigious Ripple of Hope Award from the Robert F. Kennedy Center. The award recognizes leaders in the fields of business, entertainment and activist communities who are committed to social change.
OTHER CAUSES: Red Cross, Nick’s Kids Fund, Make-A-Wish Foundation
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: From the outset of her career, Swift has continuously donated money to aid victims of natural disasters.
4. BONO
The Irish rock star and front man of U2 is known just as much for his musical talents as he is for his commitment to bettering the world. The veteran rocker is active in the fight against AIDS, and many of his humanitarian efforts focus on Africa. Bono co-founded ONE, a grassroots advocacy and campaigning organization that works to end extreme poverty and preventable disease. The charismatic singer uses his influence to work with world leaders to decrease third-world debt and raise awareness about the plight of Africa.
OTHER CAUSES: (RED), Greenpeace, EDUN
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Bono was officially knighted in 2007 by Queen Elizabeth II.
5. ELLEN DEGENERES
This funny lady not only entertains people on her hit daytime hit, The Ellen Degeneres Show, but uses her program as a platform to encourage others to give back. An animal lover and vegan, Ellen is an active supporter of The Humane Society and in 2009 was named PETA’s Woman of the Year for her dedication to animal rights. Degeneres is also famously known for publicly coming out on network television and is a strong advocate for LGBT rights.
OTHER CAUSES: It Gets Better Project, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, The Trevor Project
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Ellen Degeneres has her own record label called eleveneleven.
6. MERYL STREEP
This gifted actress, known for disappearing into her roles, does not take a backseat when it comes to philanthropic initiatives. Streep and her husband sculptor Don Gummer established the Silver Mountain Foundation of the Arts in which they generously donate to causes closest to their hearts.
OTHER CAUSES: Oxfam America, Vassar College, Coalition for the Homeless
LITTLE KNOWN FACT: Streep is the honorary spokeswoman for the National Women’s History Museum.
