Celebrities are always known for flaunting their pompous lifestyles, homes, and clothes. But, few out there have truly made a mark on the world. This article contains five celebrities with their own non-profit, who are constantly willing to make a difference. It also shows who they are helping, and why it was initiated. If you want to start your foundation, explore each celeb’s founding story below.
1. The Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales
The future King and Queen of England, Prince William and Princess Catherine, have been strong advocates for the British people. The Royal Foundation was originally founded by William and his brother Harry, in 2009. They later invited their wives to be the Principal Patrons. The non-profit focuses on several overlooked areas within society, which include the conservation crisis, childhood, homelessness crisis, and mental health. They aim to make sure that conversations are continuously being made regarding such causes. Projects like ‘Heads Together’ and the Center for Early Childhood, aim to allow society to come together and transform day by day.
The story behind the non-profit
The couple is passionate about the non-profit and wants to make sure that nobody is forgotten. According to their website, five important principles lead them to success and help them envision the best outcomes. Impact, Together, Focus, Ambition, and Objectives fulfill the goal of eliminating the stigma and coming together in times of need. The team inspires others to make sure no voice is unheard and be open to emotional conversations. The organization has been nothing short of positive throughout the years and has influenced over 600,000 people to instill change for the better. To learn more about the foundation, get in touch through the website.
2. The Matthew Perry Foundation
We all know Matthew Perry for his iconic performance as the witty and lovable Chandler Bing on the ‘90s sitcom “Friends”, among other works, like “17 Again” and “Fools Rush In”. However, he fought a tough addiction battle to drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, he passed away in October 2023, due to acute Ketamine effects. The Matthew Perry Foundation was founded by the National Philanthropic Trust shortly after his untimely death and strives to continue Matthew’s advocacy for those currently struggling with addiction.
The story behind the non-profit
A year before he passed, Perry released his memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing” and was very vocal about his disease. Even throughout stardom, he felt so alone and wanted to be really personal with those who felt the same. He still wants us to know it’s ok to not be ok and to ask for help. The National Philanthropic Trust wanted to make sure his spirit was still alive through the foundation. They additionally incorporated Grassroots Recovery Grants, which will allow support with one’s recovery journey. There is no doubt that he would have started this foundation if he was still alive today and continued to eliminate the stigma. The mission shows how Matthew is still a guide, and to come together as one in times of need and treatment. To support the foundation, you can donate today and continue Perry’s legacy.
3. Pies Descalzos Fundación (BareFoot Foundation)
Renowned Colombian singer and star, Shakira, is a hardworking humanitarian. She founded Pies Descalzos in 1997 to support the children of Colombia in crucial developmental areas. Regardless of fame, she is set on paving the path to success for a child who deservedly needs it. She aims to empower through education and is hoping to make a long-lasting difference.
The story behind the non-profit
Growing up in an impoverished community, Shakira observed that not many children went to school and would often end up on a fallen path. This motivated her to one day allow children with the quality of an education, and to cultivate a bright future for them. The mission is to craft educational infrastructures and pedagogical practices in many areas of Colombia, in order to allow children to thrive and live better. Thanks to the foundation, 25,900+ children were successful in various opportunities and learned valuable life skills, too. This foundation has grown significantly throughout the years, with Shakira simultaneously earning awards. It has also expanded to other countries, such as Africa and Haiti. To support the philanthropy, you can donate or even become a volunteer.
4. Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation
Former Los Angeles Laker, Kobe Bryant, was always set on being a positive influence, inside and outside of the sports world. He originally founded the Mamba Sports Foundation in 2016, but the name was later changed. Kobe and his daughter, Gianna, were tragically killed in a helicopter crash in early 2020, and the name was changed to honor the two. Through the eyes of Kobe and Gianna Bryant, the foundation strives to continue their legacies in helping young boys and girls in sports.
The story behind the non-profit
Before they passed, Kobe and Gigi were proactive champions of gender equality within sports. This non-profit was founded to continue their legacy and to allow underprivileged student-athletes with the right programming within school and outside. It strives to create a positive impact on their futures and pushes them to grow as an athlete and person. Natalia and Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s daughter and wife, strive to keep the duo’s spirit alive through Skills Academy Clinics, as well as honorary merchandise. To support this foundation, you can donate or join the mailing list to learn of new announcements.
Time to spark change
If you’re interested in creating your own foundation, keep in mind it’s not too late. Each cause has a passion beneath, so use each founding story as a guide to be a helping hand. You can surely make an impact on society and be the driver for change. Your hard work can inspire so many, so don’t be afraid to pass the torch and transform better.
