We love celebrities who give back to their communities. Whether it’s by volunteering themselves or donating money to charity, these famous faces constantly show their love by helping those in need. In lieu of the upcoming NAACP Image Awards, let’s take a look at some of the nominees have impacted their communities with more than just their talent.
2. Oprah Winfrey
When it comes to being benevolent, Oprah Winfrey name comes to mind first. She’s supported over 22 charities and causes throughout her long career and is just getting warmed up. Her foundations, The Angel Network, The Oprah Winfrey Foundation and The Oprah Winfrey Operating Foundation, receive the most attention and her Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa is her most notable project to date.
3. Gabrielle Union
As a successful woman, Gabrielle Union knows the importance of female empowerment. She’s an avid supporter of the Women’s Cancer Programs of the Entertainment Industry Foundation and an activist for women’s issues, particularly on violence against women. In addition, Union is also an ambassador in Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s Circle of Promise and a spokesperson for Planned Parenthood’s breast health initiative.
4. Kerry Washington
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When she isn’t running the streets of D.C. as Olivia Pope, Kerry Washington is a philanthropist and works to bring awareness women’s issues. She’s a member of V-Day, a movement that raises awareness around violence against women and like Gabrielle Union, supports Women’s Cancer Programs. Additionally, in 2012 she spoke at the Democratic National Convention in favor of re-electing Barack Obama.
5. LL Cool J
LL Cool J is an avid supported of the Chrysalis organization which helps homeless people find employment and change their life through jobs. As a longtime supporter of the organization, LL Cool J once donated his own designer clothing to the charity for those in need. The Chrysalis organization currently helps more than 2,000 people yearly.
6. Boris Kodjoe
Boris Kodjoe has been known to support causes such as the Cancer For College and Manifest Your Destiny Foundations. However, he’s mostly known for the Sophia’s Voice foundation which he founded with his wife, Nicole, in honor of their daughter Sophie who was diagnosed with Spina Bifida at birth. Together, they are committed to educating communities on the importance of building healthy lifestyles.
7. Kevin Hart
Even with a schedule as busy as his, Kevin Hart still finds time to give back and make a difference in his community. He once donated $250k and computers to local schools in his hometown of Philly as well as $100k to relief efforts in Newark, NJ following the devastation of hurricane Sandy. If that’s not enough, during the holidays he teamed up with Chris Paul to give 100 kids a shopping spree at Toys R’ Us!
8. Don Cheadle
Don Cheadle along with George Clooney, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, David Pressman, and Jerry Weintraub founded Not On Our Watch in 2008 to bring global attention to human rights violations around the world. Prior to establishing the organization, Cheadle authored a book with the same name with human rights activist John Prendergast.
9. Chris Rock
When Chris Rock isn’t making us cry from laughter, hs is known for his participation in multiple charities. He’s a proud ambassador for UNICEF and also took part in the America: A Tribute to Heroes charity telethon for victims of 9/11. In addition, he helped launch (RED), a project that helps women and children affected by HIV and AIDS in Africa.
10. Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman not only supports charities that benefit humans, but he also shows his affection for animals by supporting the Mississippi Animal Rescue League and donating money to the Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine, now called the Morgan Freeman Equine Reproduction Research Unit. In addition, Freeman also founded the Grenada Relief Fund to help victims of natural disasters. Amazing!
11. Wendy Raquel Robinson
Wendy Raquel Robinson believes in the power of education. She co-founded the Amazing Grace Conservatory — a school that teaches children from disadvantaged backgrounds arts and media production. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the school and provides training for thousands of young people yearly. Some of the school’s most notable members are Rhyon Nicole Brown and Elle Varner.
12. Jill Scott
Jill Scott is affiliated with many charity organizations including the Save The Music Foundation and The HollyRod Foundation. However, her most notable would have to be her work with FFAWN which is the Foundation For the Advancement of Women. FFAWN aims to help women gain confidence to reach their full individual potential through scholarships, grants, and programs, an organization quite fitting for the songstress.
13. Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington is a firm believer in helping children. He is currently a spokesperson for the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of America, an honorary chairperson for Save Africa’s Children and a lifetime founding member of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. If that’s not enough, Washington once donated $1 million to Wiley College to re-establish their debate team and also supports 18 other youth organizations!
14. Jamie Foxx
Jamie Foxx is more than just an entertainer. He’s responsible the Jamie Foxx Foundation which provides health, education, and welfare for children around the world and also supports HIV/AIDS causes in Africa and Haiti. If that’s not enough, Foxx has worked with the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, the Save the Music Foundation, iwantpeace.com and more!
15. Idris Elba
When we think of Idris Elba, his sexy British accent and charming smile is the first thing that comes to mind. But he’s also well known for his work with various charity organizations including the Cancer Research UK, Staying Alive Foundation, and Prince’s Trust where he serves as an anti-crime ambassador. In addition, Elba has supported AIDS & HIV, At-Risk Youths, Cancer and other causes throughout his career.
16. Viola Davis
When Viola Davis isn’t teaching her students “How to Get Away With Murder,” she’s working to end childhood hunger, a cause she’s all too familiar with. Davis too suffered from hunger as a child and is now dedicated to helping end it across the United States. She’s teamed up with Hunger Is in hopes to raise money online and in Safeway grocery stores to allow more meals in schools and re-establish hope in youth.
