Celebrities get a lot of flak for everything they do – what they wear, what they say, how they choose to parent their kids, the list goes on and on. But, it’s important to remember that celebs are people too, just like us. Except, they have lots of money. While some celebs waste away all of their earnings on material things, some actually choose to make a difference in the world – and I don’t mean starring in a hit movie or recording a platinum album. There are many celebs who deserve to be given a little recognition for the charity work they do. Here is a list of some majorly charitable celebs, what organization they decide to give back to, and how much they choose to give.
Angelina Jolie
We all know Angie is a rock star when it comes to giving back. Her charity work includes a $100,000 grant to Global Action for Children, a $1 million donation to Human Rights Watch, $2 million towards a new children’s hospital in Ethiopia and much more. Not only does Angie give millions to organizations, she takes an active role as well. She’s made multiple trips to third world countries in hopes of bringing awareness and aid to poverty-stricken towns and their inhabitants. And, hello, how many orphaned kids has she adopted? Can’t keep track anymore!
Bono
The U2 frontman is no stranger when it comes to fighting poverty and hunger around the world. Ever since the 1980s, Bono has visited countries like Ethiopia, Nicaragua and El Salvador in order to bring attention to their desperate need for resources. He’s co-created several humanitarian organizations, including the ONE Campaign, a grassroots campaign and advocacy organization which fights global aids and extreme poverty. He has received several humanitarian awards as well as three nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize for all of his generous aid and fundraising efforts.
Madonna
Madonna is one of the best known celebs who give generously to charity. In 2006, she co-founded “Raising Malawi,” an organization that provides impoverished orphans in Malawi with nutritious food, clothing, secure shelter, formal education, medical care, emotional care and other support. She matches every dollar raised by the organization. She even adopted one of the Malawan orphans!
George Clooney
George co-founded “Not On Our Watch” with his Oceans 11 co-stars Brad Pitt, Don Cheadle Matt Damon and producer Jerry Weintraub, a non-profit that is working to stop the Sudanese genocide as well as help victims of rape and torture. He’s also given aid to organizations that aid homeless people, as well as groups that provide aid to victims of the Haiti disaster. When an organization needs a face to advocate for it, George steps up to the plate!
Oprah
It’s no big surprise Oprah, one of the richest and most powerful people in the entertainment business, gives to charity. In fact, she probably gives more money to charity than any other celebrity. Oprah created a charity that helps charities! In 1998, she created “Oprah’s Angel Network” which supports charitable projects and provides grants to nonprofit organizations around the world. Oprah personally covered all administrative costs, so 100% of funds raised went to charity. She also created an organization which helped the victims of Hurricane Katrina, building them new homes. Oprah donated her time and money, about $40 million, to open an all-girls school in South Africa, supporting disadvantaged young girls. Beyond just being generous, Oprah has a way to connect with the people she helps. She calls each and every one of the girls in her school her "daughter" and hopes to spend much of her retirement at the school.
