American singer Michael Jackson left a lasting legacy as a prolific philanthropist and humanitarian.[1][2][3][4] Throughout Jackson's public life, he dedicated himself to various humanitarian causes, particularly in areas regarding poverty, disease, welfare, and disadvantaged youth. Jackson's early charitable work has been described by The Chronicle of Philanthropy as having "paved the way for the current surge in celebrity philanthropy",[5] and by the Los Angeles Times as having "set the standard for generosity for other entertainers".[1] By some estimates, he donated over $500 million to charity over the course of his life,[1] at one time being recognized in Guinness World Records for the breadth of his philanthropic work.[1][6][7]
The actual amount of donations made by Jackson may be even higher, but the exact amount is not known since Jackson often gave anonymously and without fanfare. In addition to supporting a substantial number of charities established by others, in 1992 Jackson established the Heal the World Foundation, to which he donated several million dollars in revenue from his Dangerous World Tour.
Aside from monetary donations, Jackson's philanthropic activities also included performing in benefit concerts and giving away tickets for regular concert performances to groups aiding underprivileged children, making hospital visits to sick children and opening his home for visits, with attention to providing special facilities and nurses if the children needed that level of care. He also donated valuable personal and professional paraphernalia for numerous charity auctions. Jackson received various awards and accolades for his philanthropic work, including two bestowed by Presidents of the United States.
- ^ a b c d Tina Daunt, "Giving in spirit and deed", Los Angeles Times (July 8, 2009), p. D6.
- ^ Jackson-Lee, Sheila (June 26, 2009). "H. RES. 600: Honoring an American legend and musical icon".
- ^ Brad Cafarelli, "Superstar's musical career had the classic humble start", Los Angeles Times (November 7, 1988), Section VIII, p. 1, 5.
- ^ Joseph Vogel, Michael Jackson's Forgotten Humanitarian Legacy, HuffPost (September 24, 2017).
- ^ Wilhelm, Ian (June 26, 2009). "Michael Jackson and Philanthropy". The Chronicle of Philanthropy.
- ^ "He won't stop 'til they get enough". The Telegraph. January 1, 2001.
- ^ "Most charities supported by a pop star". Guinness World Records. 2000.