Entertainment
After hrs lists some actors who have set up philanthropic organisations
Updated : Dec 18, 2014, 01:00 PM IST
Christy Turlington Burns
Supermodel Christy founded Every Mother Counts - a non-profit organization that helps make pregnancy and childbirth safe for every mother – following complications she faced post the birth of her first baby. The charity only raises funds for maternal programs across the globe including in Haiti, Uganda, Malawi, Indonesia and the United States. Christy said, "I am committed to making a sustainable difference in the lives of moms and moms-to-be by inspiring many others to join in our effort."
Michael J. Fox
The actor started his foundation for Parkinson's disease research with the goal of finding a cure in 2000. Since then, the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research has granted more than $450 million to researchers to help improve the lives of those suffering from the disease. Fox who was diagnosed with Parkinsons at 29 didn't announce it publicly until much later. "It's a degenerative, progressive disease," he had said. "And also there's shame in illness."
Jennifer Hudson
Following the tragic demise of her mother, brother and nephew who were murdered in 2008, the singer started the Julian D King Gift Foundation with her sister Julia Hudson to "provide stability, support, and positive experiences for children of all backgrounds." The foundation distributes school supplies and Christmas presents to kids. "Where we came from, a lot of kids don't have school supplies or school clothes," she says. "Children should not have to worry about those things. When we went [shopping], you got two pairs of shoes and two pairs of clothes, and we were considered blessed. We make sure these kids have school supplies and [presents] for the holidays."
Pharrell Williams
The singer's non-profit organisation From One Hand to AnOTHER is aimed at children helping to provide them with the tools and resources to reach their potential. The programs was specifically developed for youth between the ages of 7 and 20 in at risk communities throughout the US. Pharrell in fact sold his iconic hat that he wore to the 2014 Grammys at an auction for $44,100 and gave all the money towards the foundation.
Eva Longoria
The Desperate Housewives star has a selfless side to her. She started a charity Eva's Heroes after being inspired by her older sister who suffers from Down's Syndrome. The charity based in San Antonia, helps teens and young adults with special needs integrate in society. Eva said, "I knew the word 'volunteer' very early on in my life. So my upbringing taught me how to be philanthropic and charitable."
Ben Affleck
The Argo star has devoted his efforts to Eastern Congo Initiative, which he started in 2009 that works with the people of the East Congo region. It helps them have economic and social opportunities and also assists women and children affected by sexual violence. Ben had also directed a short film aGimme Shelter," about the humanitarian crisis in the area.
—Compiled by Sanaya Chavda