Did you know how many celebrity philanthropists there are? Lots of famous people use their fame and money to help good causes. Many have set up foundations to benefit causes close to their hearts, give millions of their own money, and dedicate time to raising funds. Here are just some of the celebrity philanthropists donating millions to help others …
1 Paul Newman
Paul Newman was one of the longest-serving celebrity philanthropists. When he set up his company Newman's Own over 30 years ago, manufacturing salad dressing, the idea of a celebrity range of products was something new. The line has since expanded to include other products, and has donated over $300 million to charity.
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2 Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt
The famous couple set up the Jolie-Pitt Foundation to give humanitarian aid around the world. Through the Foundation they've donated large amounts to a number of causes in the U.S and abroad, including victims of natural disasters. Angelina is also a UNHCR Goodwill ambassador.
3 Elton John
Elton John is another busy celebrity philanthropist. His AIDS foundation has been going for 20 years, and like Newman's Own has raised over $300 million. Annual events held to benefit the foundation include Elton's famous White Tie and Tiara Ball, and his Oscar party.
4 George Clooney
Gorgeous George isn't just beautiful on the outside. Nor is he content to just hand over checks. Instead he actively campaigns on human rights issues. Along with other celebrities, including Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, George founded the organisation Not On My Watch.
5 Oprah Winfrey
Oprah is another celebrity who has raised a lot of money for charitable causes through her own foundation. Her main interest is in the education of women and children, but she has also made large donations to build and restore houses for people affected by Hurricane Katrina.
6 Ian Somerhalder
What's not to love about a guy who loves animals? The Vampire Diaries actor set up his foundation to raise funds for, and awareness of, animal welfare and environmental issues. He now has a big plan to set up a refuge that will not only help abused animals, but work to combat bullying. What a big heart.
7 George Lucas
Fans may not approve of the sale of Lucasfilm to Disney, but it's led to a pretty big payout for charity. Generous George is donating the proceeds to causes such as education. This isn't a mere $300 million either, but a massive $4 billion! That's going to make a major difference …
8 Bill Gates
Still, George Lucas's $4 billion looks like small change when you consider how much Microsoft founder Bill Gates has dropped into the collection plate. Admittedly he's worth $67 billion, but Gates has so far given away $28 billion. I wonder what he plans to do with the other $40 billion …
It could be said that celebrities can afford to give money away, but let's give them some credit. A famous name can help raise both awareness and funds for some very deserving causes. These famous folks could just sit back and count their cash, but they're all working hard for the causes they believe in. And there are a lot more doing good things with their money. If you were a celebrity, which cause would you give millions to?
