Michael Jackson led the way with philanthropic efforts

June 29, 7:34 PMAtlanta Nonprofit Business ExaminerFabiola Charles

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Michael Jackson died at age 50.

June 25, 2009 marked the day that musical icon Michael Jackson passed away. I would be remiss to not reference him in my first Examiner article, while highlighting the non-profit and charitable giving efforts of celebrities.  Michael will be missed, not only because of the entertainment legacy that he leaves behind, but also because of the philanthropic ideology that he bestowed upon us.  Michael's desire was to 'Heal the World,' as he sang about in his 1985 musical collaboration with Lionel Richie. He later started the Heal The World Foundation in 1992, with the goal of globally helping those children in disadvantaged situations by providing the necessary tools to further their own development.

As people continue to mourn the death of Michael Jackson, many are beginning to take note of his charitable contributions.  He was such a generous individual that he was listed in the 2000 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records for "Most Charities Supported by a Pop Star," with that number being 39.  Having donated over $300 Million of his personal wealth over his lifetime, Michael has certainly set the stage for the current surge in celebrity philanthropy.

There are a number of Atlanta-based celebrities who have taken it upon themselves to follow in the footsteps of such great philanthropists.  Usher Raymond has made tremendous strides with his nonprofit, Usher's New Look, which provides youth with a new look on life through education and real life experiences.  Big Boi (1/2 of the duo OutKast) has followed suit with the Big Kidz Foundation, which holds a similar mission.  NFL linebacker Keith Brooking started the Keith Brooking Children's Foundation, which is committed to improving the lives of foster children and children in need within the metro Atlanta area. Jane Fonda stands behind the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, which hopes to eliminate adolescent pregnancy in Georgia; and Laura Turner Seydel chairs the Captain Planet Foundation, which funds and supports hands-on environmental projects for children and youth.

There are a slew of foundations, charities and non-profits that have been spearheaded by celebrities, but you don't have to be famous to share your desire to help others. Tune in next time when I share some of the best and most insightful resources an individual would need when trying to start their own non-profit.  Until then, here is a little food for thought -- If service is the rent you pay for your existence on this earth....are you behind on your rent?