The 45 Most Generous Celebs in the World

High profile public figures often use their massive platforms and financial resources to address global issues and support vulnerable populations. These individuals contribute significant portions of their wealth to education and healthcare and environmental conservation efforts. Their philanthropic work ranges from founding private organizations to making large donations during international crises or natural disasters. This list highlights celebrities who have demonstrated a long term commitment to charitable giving through consistent financial support and advocacy.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa to provide high quality education to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. She donated over forty million dollars to this institution and continues to support its operations and expansion. The former host of ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’ also contributed millions to the Angel Network and various hurricane relief efforts. Her philanthropic work focus extends to global literacy and health and civil rights initiatives.

George Lucas

George Lucas donated four billion dollars to a foundation focused on education following the sale of his production company to Disney. This organization works to improve primary and secondary education through research and the implementation of innovative teaching practices. The ‘Star Wars’ creator also signed the Giving Pledge and promised to donate the majority of his wealth to charitable causes. He remains a major supporter of the expansion of digital arts and storytelling in academic settings.

J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling was the first person to fall off the billionaire list because she gave away so much of her fortune to charity. She founded Lumos to help end the institutionalization of children worldwide and reunite them with families. The author of ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ also established the Volant Charitable Trust to support women and children and alleviate social deprivation. Her donations often target multiple sclerosis research and organizations that combat poverty.

Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton established the ‘Imagination Library’ which has gifted over two hundred million books to children around the world to promote early literacy. She famously donated one million dollars to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to fund research for a coronavirus vaccine. The legendary singer also supports wildfire relief efforts in her home state of Tennessee through the My People Fund. Her charitable work consistently focuses on education and disaster recovery and healthcare access for rural communities.

Elton John

Elton John founded his own AIDS foundation in the early nineties to support prevention programs and eliminate the stigma associated with the disease. The organization has raised hundreds of millions of dollars to fund medical research and patient care across the globe. He frequently performs at benefit concerts and hosts annual galas to generate financial support for healthcare initiatives. His advocacy has significantly impacted the treatment of individuals living with the illness in underserved regions.

Bono

Bono cofounded the ONE Campaign and RED to fight extreme poverty and preventable diseases particularly in Africa. These organizations work with governments to secure funding for healthcare programs and economic development. The lead singer of U2 uses his global fame to lobby political leaders for debt relief and increased international aid. His efforts have helped millions of people gain access to life saving medications and educational opportunities.

John Cena

John Cena holds the world record for the most wishes granted through the Make A Wish foundation with over six hundred and fifty individual visits. He consistently dedicates his time to meeting children with critical illnesses to provide them with hope and joy. The professional wrestler and actor also makes significant financial contributions to veterans organizations and social justice causes. His dedication to philanthropy is widely recognized by both fans and charitable institutions globally.

LeBron James

LeBron James opened the I PROMISE School in his hometown of Akron to support at risk students with education and career placement. His foundation provides full college scholarships to hundreds of students who complete the program successfully. The basketball star also supports various initiatives that focus on affordable housing and community empowerment. He remains a vocal advocate for educational reform and social equality in the United States.

Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan donated one hundred million dollars to organizations dedicated to ensuring racial equality and social justice. He also made a record breaking ten million dollar donation to the Make A Wish foundation on his sixtieth birthday. The legendary athlete frequently supports food banks and disaster relief efforts through large financial gifts. His philanthropic impact extends to healthcare and education and community development projects across North Carolina.

Rihanna

Rihanna founded the Clara Lionel Foundation to support global education and emergency response programs. She has donated millions of dollars to provide climate resilience funding and healthcare equipment to hospitals in the Caribbean. The singer behind ‘Good Girl Gone Bad’ also advocates for the protection of marginalized communities during global health crises. Her foundation funds innovative projects that improve the quality of life for children in underserved countries.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé established the BeyGOOD initiative to provide scholarships and professional mentorship to young people. She has funded various projects related to clean water access and mental health services and disaster relief. The artist behind ‘Black Is King’ often partners with local organizations to provide food and housing assistance to families in need. Her charitable efforts focus on empowering urban communities and supporting small business owners.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift frequently makes large donations to food banks in cities where she performs during her concert tours. She has provided significant financial aid to victims of natural disasters and fans struggling with medical bills or student loans. The singer behind ‘Folklore’ also supports music education programs and literacy initiatives across the country. Her philanthropic style is often characterized by direct and personal contributions to individuals and local charities.

George Clooney

George Clooney cofounded Not On Our Watch to draw global attention to mass atrocities and provide humanitarian aid. He also established the Clooney Foundation for Justice to hold human rights abusers accountable through the legal system. The actor from ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ uses his platform to advocate for refugees and victims of conflict in various international regions. He and his wife Amal Clooney support several initiatives focused on education and legal protections for marginalized groups.

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo DiCaprio created a foundation dedicated to protecting the last wild places on Earth and building a more sustainable relationship between humanity and nature. He has awarded tens of millions of dollars in grants to environmental projects spanning all five oceans and seven continents. The star of ‘The Revenant’ focuses his philanthropy on climate change and biodiversity loss and indigenous rights. He frequently uses his public appearances to speak about the urgent need for environmental conservation.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie served as a Special Envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for many years. She has carried out dozens of field missions to meet with displaced persons and advocate for their protection. The actress from ‘Lara Croft Tomb Raider’ also funds schools and healthcare facilities in conflict zones and developing nations. Her humanitarian work focuses on the rights of women and children and the preservation of international law.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt established the Make It Right Foundation to build sustainable and affordable homes for people displaced by Hurricane Katrina. He has contributed millions of dollars to humanitarian causes including global health initiatives and environmental protection. The actor from ‘Moneyball’ also supports organizations that provide aid to refugees and victims of international conflict. His philanthropic efforts often involve collaborative projects aimed at long term community rebuilding.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila founded the Just Keep Livin Foundation to empower high school students by providing them with the tools to lead active lives. The program focuses on fitness and nutrition and wellness and community service. The star of ‘Dallas Buyers Club’ frequently hosts fundraising events to expand the reach of the foundation to more schools. His work emphasizes the importance of making positive life choices during the transition to adulthood.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep and her husband founded the Silver Mountain Foundation for the Arts to provide grants to various educational and cultural organizations. She has donated millions of dollars to theater groups and museums and women’s health initiatives. The actress from ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ also supports the National Women’s History Museum and organizations that promote gender equality. Her philanthropy is often quiet and focused on sustaining the arts and humanities.

Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand established a foundation that focuses on environmental protection and civil rights and women’s health. She made a significant donation to create a cardiovascular research and education program at a major medical center. The star of ‘The Prince of Tides’ advocates for heart health awareness and funding for medical research specifically for women. Her charitable giving also extends to social justice organizations and voter registration initiatives.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres established a wildlife fund to protect endangered species and support conservation efforts globally. She has donated millions of dollars to animal rescue organizations and various disaster relief funds. The former host of ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ frequently used her platform to raise money for individuals in financial distress and schools in need of supplies. Her philanthropy often centers on animal welfare and education and community support.

Jackie Chan

Jackie Chan founded his own charitable foundation to provide medical care and education and disaster relief to people in need. He has donated millions of dollars to build schools and provide scholarships for students in rural areas. The ‘Rush Hour’ star also serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and advocates for the protection of children. His philanthropic efforts have helped thousands of people gain access to essential services across Asia.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves has secretly funded a private foundation that supports children’s hospitals and cancer research for many years. He famously donated a significant portion of his earnings from ‘The Matrix’ to the special effects and costume design teams. The actor also supports various organizations that focus on medical care for individuals with life threatening illnesses. His charitable work is widely respected for being humble and focused on the needs of others.

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper founded SocialWorks to empower youth through the arts and education and civic engagement in Chicago. He raised millions of dollars for local public schools to fund music and coding and enrichment programs. The artist also supports initiatives that provide mental health services and housing assistance to the homeless. His philanthropy is deeply rooted in his commitment to his hometown and its future generations.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock has a long history of making million dollar donations to the American Red Cross following major natural disasters. she provided significant financial support to help rebuild schools in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The actress from ‘The Blind Side’ also contributes to organizations that support foster care and adoption services. Her charitable giving is often prompt and directed toward urgent humanitarian needs.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga cofounded the Born This Way Foundation to support the mental health and wellness of young people. The organization works to create a kinder and braver world through community based programming and research. The star of ‘A Star Is Born’ also raises funds for disaster relief and global health initiatives through benefit concerts. Her philanthropy focuses on empowering youth and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Shawn Carter

Shawn Carter established the Shawn Carter Foundation to provide scholarships and educational opportunities to students facing socio-economic hardships. The organization offers college tours and study abroad programs and professional development workshops. The artist also known as Jay Z supports criminal justice reform and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship in urban communities. His philanthropic efforts aim to break the cycle of poverty through education and economic empowerment.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson serves as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launched the HeForShe campaign to promote gender equality. she has donated significant amounts to the Justice and Equality Fund to support victims of sexual harassment and discrimination. The actress from ‘Harry Potter’ also advocates for sustainable fashion and environmental conservation. Her philanthropy and activism focus on human rights and the empowerment of women worldwide.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez cofounded a family foundation that works to improve the health and well being of women and children. The organization provides access to quality healthcare and health education in underserved communities. The star of ‘Hustlers’ also makes large donations to disaster relief efforts in Puerto Rico and other regions. Her charitable work emphasizes the importance of medical resources and support for families in crisis.

Will Smith

Will Smith and his wife Jada Pinkett Smith founded a family foundation to support urban inner city youth and their families. The organization provides grants to educational programs and community development projects. The actor from ‘King Richard’ also supports global health initiatives and environmental sustainability efforts. His philanthropy focuses on providing resources and opportunities to marginalized populations in the United States.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson has served as a global ambassador for organizations like Oxfam and supports initiatives that fight poverty. She frequently contributes to Feeding America and other charities that address food insecurity. The actress from ‘The Avengers’ also supports cancer research and veterans organizations through various fundraising efforts. Her charitable work centers on humanitarian aid and social services for vulnerable groups.

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman founded Laughing Man Coffee to support coffee farming communities around the world by reinvesting profits into social programs. The foundation funds projects related to education and healthcare and housing for farmers and their families. The star of ‘The Greatest Showman’ also supports various cancer research organizations and arts education programs. His philanthropy combines social entrepreneurship with traditional charitable giving to create sustainable impact.

Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber has been a long time supporter of Pencils of Promise which builds schools and increases educational access in developing countries. He has helped fund the construction of dozens of schools and donated a portion of his concert ticket sales to the cause. The singer of ‘Baby’ also works closely with the Make A Wish foundation to meet with fans facing serious illnesses. His charitable contributions focus on youth education and medical support.

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys cofounded Keep a Child Alive to provide life saving medicine and support to families affected by HIV and AIDS. The organization also offers nutrition and physical and emotional support to children in Africa and India. The artist behind ‘Songs in A Minor’ hosts annual fundraising events to sustain these medical programs. Her philanthropy is dedicated to improving the health and future prospects of children living in poverty.

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck cofounded the Eastern Congo Initiative to provide advocacy and grant making for the people of eastern Congo. The organization focuses on community based development and supporting local leaders to create lasting change. The actor from ‘Good Will Hunting’ frequently visits the region to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis. His philanthropic work emphasizes the importance of sustainable economic growth and human rights.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon cofounded Water.org to provide access to safe water and sanitation for people in developing countries. The organization uses innovative financing models to help millions of people gain long term access to clean water. The star of ‘The Martian’ spends significant time advocating for global water security and health. His charitable efforts are focused on solving one of the world’s most pressing public health challenges.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen and his wife Lauren Miller Rogen founded Hilarity for Charity to raise awareness and fund research for Alzheimer’s disease. The organization provides support for family caregivers and educates young people about brain health. The actor from ‘Superbad’ hosts comedy events to generate financial support for medical research and care programs. His philanthropy aims to change the conversation around the disease and support those affected by it.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry has donated millions of dollars to provide food and housing and financial assistance to individuals in need. He often covers the grocery bills for thousands of senior citizens and supports organizations that fight homelessness. The creator of ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’ also contributes to civil rights groups and disaster relief efforts. His charitable giving is known for being direct and impactful for the most vulnerable members of society.

Jerry Seinfeld

Jerry Seinfeld and his wife Jessica Seinfeld founded a nonprofit organization that provides essential items like clothing and gear to families in need. The charity focuses on reducing poverty by providing parents with the resources required to care for their children. The star of ‘Seinfeld’ also supports various educational and arts programs in New York City. His philanthropy emphasizes the importance of practical support for families struggling with economic hardship.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has supported various organizations that provide treatment and resources. She frequently shares her personal experiences to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction. The singer from ‘Camp Rock’ also supports LGBTQ rights and initiatives that promote social equality. Her charitable work focuses on empowering young people to seek help and live healthy lives.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus founded the Happy Hippie Foundation to rally young people to fight injustice facing homeless youth and the LGBTQ community. The organization provides support services and advocacy and creative programs for marginalized individuals. The star of ‘Hannah Montana’ uses her platform to raise funds for disaster relief and animal welfare as well. Her philanthropy is centered on promoting acceptance and providing resources for vulnerable populations.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds and his wife Blake Lively have made numerous million dollar donations to food banks and organizations that support refugees. They also support hospitals and healthcare initiatives for children across Canada and the United States. The actor from ‘Deadpool’ frequently uses social media to raise awareness and funds for various charitable causes. His philanthropy is often characterized by timely responses to global and local crises.

Chris Evans

Chris Evans supports numerous charities including organizations that provide housing and care for families of children receiving medical treatment. He frequently visits hospitals to meet with young fans and participates in fundraising events for cancer research. The actor from ‘Captain America The First Avenger’ also advocates for political engagement and civic education through his own digital platforms. His charitable efforts focus on supporting children and promoting informed citizenship.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell recently launched a foundation to provide support and advocacy for individuals living with intellectual disabilities. He has been a long time supporter of organizations that focus on rare diseases and special education. The actor from ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ frequently participates in events to raise funds for healthcare and social services. His philanthropy is deeply personal and focuses on improving the quality of life for families facing unique challenges.

Gisele Bündchen

Gisele Bündchen has donated millions of dollars to environmental conservation and reforestation projects in the Amazon rainforest. She serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme and advocates for sustainable living. The celebrated model also supports education and healthcare initiatives for children in her home country of Brazil. Her charitable work emphasizes the urgent need to protect the planet and support future generations.

Ian Somerhalder

Ian Somerhalder founded a foundation that aims to empower and educate people to have a positive impact on the environment and animals. The organization focuses on habitat conservation and green energy and sustainable agriculture. The actor from ‘The Vampire Diaries’ frequently speaks at global conferences about the importance of environmental activism. His philanthropy is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and compassionate world through community action.

Please share your thoughts on these celebrities and their charitable contributions in the comments.