Tag: philanthropy

Celebrity Philanthropists

On June 9, 2017

In Cancer Research, Philanthropy, Philip Burroughs

Celebrities. There is something about them that makes us stop and listen. Maybe it is their wealth, influence or profession; perhaps it is merely the fact that our society is told to revere these individuals as special. And while certain celebrities can prove to be very talented or innovative, the truly special celebrities are those that give to charity and are heavily involved in philanthropy. And so, I figured I would list a few celebrities who are using their popularity and fame for good.

Bono

This may come as a surprise to nobody, considering that Bono is known more for his charitable efforts than being the frontman of U2. Bono has contributed to a variety of charitable organizations and institutions, however his biggest philanthropic endeavor goes towards the fight against AIDS in Africa. Using his passion for helping others, Bono helped found ONE, a major advocacy organization aimed at combating poverty and AIDS in Africa. The organization currently has 7 million members and, through its efforts, has managed to save the lives of tens of millions of people. Bono’s most popular organization is RED, which he helped co-found in 2006. RED specifically fights AIDS by teaming up with some of the largest brands across the globe and offering specially designed products whose proceeds benefit the organization.

John Legend

Not many people know that popular musician John Legend is quite the philanthropist. He has been most vocal about assisting developing nations to become self-sufficient as well as bolstering student education. Legend founded the Show Me Campaign, which aims at giving young students the power and confidence to become successful professionals.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson is mostly known for her role as Hermione Granger in the popular Harry Potter film series. And it seems as if she is just as magical off-screen as she is on-screen. Watson has donated to several charities from around the world, including Great Ormond Street Hospital, Small Steps Project and Millennium Purpose. Watson is best-known for her fight for female rights and feminism. As a co-founder of the popular HeForShe movement, Watson is certainly vocal about gender equality. The HeForShe campaign is designed to inspire boys and men to become advocates for women’s rights.

This is only a small list of celebrity that are using their popularity and influence for charitable causes. Perhaps I will feature even more in the future. Until then, do not forget that you do not need to be a celebrity to give back.

Relay For Life

By Philip Burroughs

On June 6, 2017

In Cancer Research, Philanthropy, Philip Burroughs

I am a heavy proponent of the American Cancer Society and all that the organization does. One of its largest fundraising efforts is the Relay For Life. For those that do not know, the Relay For Life is an annual fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Although the event is held by the American Cancer Society, the relay has gone global. According to the ACS’ official website for the relay, over 5,200 communities in 27 countries contribute their time and efforts to the relay. The relay itself can last anywhere from 6-24 hours, and each team participating in the event is instructed to have at least one member on the designated track at all times, in order to symbolize the never ending battle that cancer patients must face daily.

Throughout its 31 year history, the Relay For Life has had 3.5 million members, and has managed to accrue a whopping $5 billion.

How Did it All Start?

In 1985, Dr. Gordon Klatt, in an effort to help the American Cancer Society raise money, walked and ran for 24 hours straight on a track in Washington. After all was said and done, Klatt, through the contributions of spectators and friends, had raised $27,000 for the ACS. Little did Dr. Klatt know that he would be starting a worldwide phenomenon. The first official Relay For Life was held the following year at the Stadium Bowl and went on to raise $33,000.

The Relay For Life is incredibly important to me, and millions of other people the world over. Cancer is a terrible disease, and no person should have to go through what cancer patients do. While a full-blown cure has not yet been discovered, and we have no clue if or when we will find one, we must not give up hope. By contributing to the Relay For Life, or any cancer research fundraising event, you are helping our collective society find a cure.

If you are interested in participating in the Relay For Life or even interested in donating, visit the American Cancer Society’s official website and find the next event near you!

Thicker Than Water

By Philip Burroughs

On April 26, 2017

In Philanthropy

Imagine a world where running water is provided for everyone. The world is made up of a large portion of water, yet too many people don’t have access or can’t afford clean, running water. Two communities, one in Detroit and one in Baltimore are striving to change that through a charity known as The Human Utility, formerly known as the Detroit Water Project.

This organization is re-defining how water bills are being paid. Anyone will access to the website or organization can participate in this charity in two ways. You can state that you need help paying your water bill, or for those more financially fortunate, you can choose to help someone else pay their water bill.

Did you know that cities are turning off tap water, leaving people without the ability to shower, clean their dishes and clothes, and simply drink water in their own home? This forces people to find a source of water elsewhere. High water bills and low-income don’t mix, forcing utility companies to turn off the tap due to unpaid bills.

The Human Utility seeks to resolve this issue. With proof of income, low-income families can apply for help. A donated pool of funds is collected through the Human Utility and goes towards paying water bills for families without water. Once their overdue bills are paid, the water is turned back on and a family in need can once again enjoy the privilege of water flowing through the pipes in their home.

Dating back to 2014, this project has helped over 1000 families have their water turned back on, with their delinquent bills finally paid off thanks to the money disbursed from the donated pool. Donations are accepted at all times, in many forms. Whether you donate financially (which is tax-deductible) or you donate your time and skills, you can help provide the essential need of water to improve a family’s quality of life.

The Human Utility does more than simply paying off bills and providing water for those who can’t afford it. It establishes hope and brings a community together. Volunteers, donators, and low-income families are all part of this organization, making this a great step for humanity. One can only hope that this type of organization will appear in other high-need areas throughout the country, and perhaps even the world.