Faces of Philanthropy
type: channel
date: 2026-03-10T17:05:42Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
generator agent: https://wordpress.org/
items: Phil Knight
items: Shaquille O’Neal
items: Cristiano Ronaldo
items: Colby Leachman
items: Michael Bloomberg
items: Drew Brees
items: David Osborne Austin Texas
items: Alex von Furstenberg
items: Angelina Jolie
items: Michael Jordan

Phil Knight
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2026-03-10T17:05:41Z
subject: Phil Knight
subject: Founders
description: Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, is a pivotal figure in the world of sports and... The post Phil Knight appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, is a pivotal figure in the world of sports and business, whose vision and innovative spirit have transformed athletic wear into a global phenomenon. Born in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, Knight embarked on a journey that would not only redefine how athletic footwear is marketed and consumed but also leave an indelible mark on the culture of sports. From humble beginnings, he developed a company that rose to prominence through groundbreaking marketing strategies, endorsements from top athletes, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This article explores Knight’s life, his contributions to the industry, and the lasting legacy he has created through his work with Nike and his philanthropic efforts. Phil Knight’s philanthropic efforts have had a profound impact on various sectors, particularly in higher education and healthcare. His substantial donations to the University of Oregon, where he earned his undergraduate degree, have transformed the campus and its programs. The Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact is a testament to his commitment to fostering innovation and research. Additionally, his contributions to Stanford University, where he completed his MBA, have supported numerous initiatives aimed at advancing business education and entrepreneurship. Phil Knight was born on February 24, 1938, in Portland, Oregon, to a modest and hardworking family. His father, William W. Knight, worked as a journalist and later became a newspaper publisher, while his mother, Lota Hatfield Knight, was a homemaker who played an important role in maintaining a stable and supportive household. Together, they instilled in their son strong values of discipline, perseverance, and determination, qualities that would later shape his approach to business and leadership. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Knight developed an early passion for athletics and competition. He spent much of his youth participating in sports and exploring the outdoors, e…

Shaquille O’Neal
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-12-08T22:16:09Z
subject: Shaquille O'Neal
subject: NBA
description: Shaquille O’Neal, a towering figure both on and off the basketball court, has made a... The post Shaquille O’Neal appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Shaquille O’Neal, a towering figure both on and off the basketball court, has made a significant impact as a philanthropist throughout his career. Beyond his legendary status as an NBA superstar, O’Neal has dedicated himself to various charitable endeavors aimed at uplifting communities, supporting education, and promoting health and wellness. His philanthropic journey reflects a deep commitment to giving back, driven by personal experiences and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Through his foundation and numerous partnerships, O’Neal continues to inspire many with his unwavering support for those in need, demonstrating that true greatness extends far beyond athletic achievements. Shaquille O’Neal was born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey, where he spent his early years surrounded by challenges that helped shape his determination and resilience. His mother, Lucille O’Neal, worked hard to provide stability for the family, while his stepfather, Phillip Harrison, a U.S. Army sergeant, instilled discipline and structure in Shaq from a young age. Because of his stepfather’s military career, Shaq’s family moved frequently, living in places such as Germany and Texas. It was during his teenage years that his exceptional size and talent on the basketball court began to stand out, setting the stage for his rise to national prominence. By the time he attended Robert G. Cole High School in San Antonio, O’Neal had already developed into a dominant force, leading his team to a state championship and drawing the attention of top college scouts across the country. Post-retirement from the NBA, Shaquille O’Neal seamlessly transitioned into philanthropy, sliding into the role like a well-placed dunk. Recognizing the power he wielded as a public figure, he took to heart the responsibility of making a difference. His transition was not just about financial contributions but also about engaging in hands-on efforts to uplift communities. O’Neal’s larger…

Cristiano Ronaldo
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-12-08T22:02:36Z
subject: Cristiano Ronaldo
subject: Sports
description: For years, the name Cristiano Ronaldo has been synonymous with exceptional athletic prowess, dazzling footwork,... The post Cristiano Ronaldo appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: For years, the name Cristiano Ronaldo has been synonymous with exceptional athletic prowess, dazzling footwork, and an unwavering drive for victory. His trophy cabinet is overflowing, his records appear unbreakable, and his global fame rivals that of any superstar. Yet, beyond the stadium lights and the roar of the crowd lies a lesser-known but equally significant aspect of the Portuguese icon: his remarkable commitment to philanthropy. Away from the public eye, Ronaldo has quietly established himself as one of the most generous athletes in the world, leveraging his vast platform and personal wealth to bring hope and tangible change to countless lives. Cristiano Ronaldo’s charitable endeavors are often characterized by their understated nature. While his on-field accomplishments are widely celebrated, many of his philanthropic efforts come to light through news reports or the testimonials of those he has aided, rather than through his own declarations. This quiet generosity reflects his genuine motivation—a sincere desire to help rather than to seek additional recognition. Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born on February 5, 1985, in the São Pedro parish of Funchal, the capital of Madeira, Portugal. He was raised in the nearby parish of Santo António. He is the youngest of four children born to Maria Dolores dos Santos Viveiros Aveiro, who worked in the hospitality industry as a cook and cleaning woman, and José Dinis Aveiro, a municipal gardener and part-time kit man for the football club Andorinha. Ronaldo has one older brother, Hugo, and two older sisters, Elma and Liliana Cátia “Kátia.” He was named after the actor and U.S. President Ronald Reagan, whom his father admired. Ronaldo grew up in a devout Catholic household, sharing a room with his siblings. Cristiano Ronaldo began his football journey with Andorinha, where his father was a kit man, before moving to Nacional and later joining Sporting CP’s youth academy at age 12 for a fee of £1,500. Relocatin…

Colby Leachman
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-12-08T21:54:33Z
subject: Colby Leachman
subject: Founders
description: Full Swell Consulting, founded by innovator and entrepreneur Colby Leachman, represents a groundbreaking approach to... The post Colby Leachman appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Full Swell Consulting, founded by innovator and entrepreneur Colby Leachman, represents a groundbreaking approach to merging passion with purpose in today’s fast-paced market. With a strong commitment to community engagement and sustainability, Full Swell seeks to redefine industry standards while delivering exceptional products and services. Colby, an experienced investor and advocate, brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique vision to the enterprise, propelling it into a future where business success aligns with social responsibility. Full Swell Consulting operates at the intersection of emerging markets, transformative technology, and social impact. The firm’s work is anchored by three primary areas of expertise: Cannabis Market Consulting, Cryptocurrency & Blockchain, and Justice Reform Advocacy—each driven by a commitment to innovation, strategy, and meaningful change. Since 2018, Colby Leachman has been involved in a range of opportunistic ventures within the cannabis industry, contributing to projects centered on retail software solutions for brands, cultivators, and dispensaries. He has also led, trained, and coached product teams—all while consistently meeting a full sales quota. With the passage of Proposition 64, which legalized both medicinal and recreational cannabis use in California in 2016, an entirely new market emerged. Navigating this uncharted territory—particularly on the tech side—is a key source of Leachman’s passion for the progressive, fast-moving nature of startup culture. Leachman’s journey into the tech world began in 2014 when he accepted a role that ultimately brought him to California. This move not only shifted the geographic focus of his career but also played a defining role in shaping his long-term professional ambitions. Full Swell Consulting was launched in 2015 by a group of industry veterans who were tired of boring, cookie-cutter consulting. Located in the heart of innovation, the firm combines strategic insights with a splas…

Michael Bloomberg
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-12-08T21:33:38Z
subject: Michael Bloomberg
subject: Mayors
description: Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor of New York City and billionaire businessman, has made significant... The post Michael Bloomberg appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor of New York City and billionaire businessman, has made significant contributions to philanthropy through his extensive charitable works. With a commitment to addressing pressing social issues, Bloomberg has focused his efforts on education, public health, environmental sustainability, and the arts. Through Bloomberg Philanthropies, he has supported a wide range of initiatives that aim to improve lives both locally and globally. This article explores the breadth and impact of Michael Bloomberg’s charitable endeavors, examining key programs and the philosophy that drives his philanthropic vision. At the heart of Michael Bloomberg’s philanthropic philosophy lies a commitment to impact and innovation. He believes in the power of data-driven solutions to tackle the world’s most pressing issues. With a flair for problem-solving, Bloomberg emphasizes accountability, transparency, and a results-oriented approach. He values collaboration and often brings together government, nonprofits, and the private sector to maximize the good from his generous donations. Simply put, he’s on a mission to “make the world a better place,” and he’s not shy about bringing his business acumen into the nonprofit realm. The cornerstone of Michael Bloomberg’s charitable efforts is the Bloomberg Philanthropies Foundation, which doles out millions to various causes, ranging from education to public health. Established in 2010, the foundation embodies his philosophy of making data-driven decisions to tackle social issues. The foundation supports over 1,000 initiatives, demonstrating that whether it’s fighting climate change or supporting the arts, Bloomberg believes in funding what works. Bloomberg Philanthropies Foundation is a global charitable organization founded by Michael R. Bloomberg, dedicated to improving lives through data-driven, results-oriented initiatives. The foundation focuses on five key areas, public health, education, the environment, government…

Drew Brees
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-12-08T21:03:24Z
subject: Drew Brees
subject: NFL
description: Drew Brees, the legendary quarterback known for his record-breaking performances on the football field, has... The post Drew Brees appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Drew Brees, the legendary quarterback known for his record-breaking performances on the football field, has also made a significant impact off the field through his philanthropic efforts. Since his retirement from the NFL, Brees has dedicated much of his time and resources to charitable initiatives that aim to improve the lives of individuals and communities in need. Through the Brees Dream Foundation and various partnerships with nonprofit organizations, he has championed causes such as education, health care, and youth development. For Brees, philanthropy isn’t just a side gig; it’s personal. Growing up in a supportive family with strong values laid the groundwork for his giving spirit. Following his experience with injuries and understanding the struggles many face, he has made it his mission to lift others up. He often reflects on his own journey and champions the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed, no matter their starting line. Drew Brees, born on January 15, 1979, in Austin, Texas, emerged from an athletic lineage that substantially shaped his early life. His father, Eugene “Chip” Brees II, was a prominent trial lawyer and former Texas A&M basketball player, while his mother, Mina Brees, an attorney herself, also played a pivotal role in his upbringing. The familial environment fostered Drew’s fervor for sports from a young age. Attending Westlake High School in Austin provided him with an ideal platform to harness his nascent talent in football and baseball. Despite confronting a knee injury during his junior year, Brees demonstrated resilience and prowess on the football field, leading Westlake to a 16-0 record and a state championship as a senior. These formative years were marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership, setting the foundation for his storied future in professional football. Drew Brees is a former NFL quarterback widely regarded as one of the most accurate and productive passers in league history. After a st…

David Osborne Austin Texas
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2025-09-26T03:10:16Z
subject: David Osborne
subject: Founders
description: David Osborne: Austin’s Quiet Leader in Finance and Community Austin, TX — As Austin continues... The post David Osborne Austin Texas appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: David Osborne: Austin’s Quiet Leader in Finance and Community Austin, TX — As Austin continues its transformation from a laid-back capital city into one of the nation’s fastest-growing hubs of technology, culture, and entrepreneurship, certain individuals have emerged as steady voices of experience. Among them is David Osborne, a financial advisor whose influence extends beyond markets and investment portfolios. Known both for his decades-long career in wealth management and his deep commitment to education and civic engagement, Osborne has become a fixture in the community—someone whose leadership is defined as much by service as it is by professional success. David Osborne arrived in the financial world through a traditional route, cutting his teeth at Morgan Stanley, where he learned to navigate the complexities of equity markets, retirement planning, and portfolio management. Yet even as he thrived in a competitive Wall Street environment, it was his belief in the human side of finance that shaped the course of his career. By 1999, he chose to leave the structure of a global institution and establish On Alpha Capital, a boutique advisory firm headquartered in Austin and Dallas. His aim was to deliver independent, conflict-free advice that prioritized the individual goals of clients over corporate agendas. That decision not only defined his career but rooted him firmly in Austin’s ethos of independence, innovation, and personal connection. While Osborne’s professional achievements are significant—he holds multiple FINRA securities licenses, manages clients in more than 20 states, and has advised families, entrepreneurs, and athletes alike—it is his presence in Austin that has cemented his reputation. To his peers and neighbors, Osborne is not just a financial strategist but a community-minded leader whose work touches education, mentorship, and civic life. David Osborne’s commitment to the Austin community is longstanding and deeply personal. He serves on the Boa…

Alex von Furstenberg
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2023-12-19T23:11:19Z
subject: Alex von Furstenberg
subject: Investors
description: Private equity financier and philanthropist Alex von Furstenberg is the son of fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg... The post Alex von Furstenberg appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Private equity financier and philanthropist Alex von Furstenberg is the son of fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg (creator of the iconic wrap dress) and Prince Egon of Furstenberg, a Swiss nobleman who is also a fashion designer. A skilled financier, Alex von Furstenberg led the restructuring of Diane von Furstenberg Studio, LP, elevating the company’s annual revenues from $1 million to more than $200 million. Alex von Furstenberg remains a Partner and Director with Diane von Furstenberg Studio, LP. Alex von Furstenberg is also a Co-Managing Member and Chief Investment Officer of Arrow Capital Management, LLC. As director and secretary of the Diller – von Furstenberg Family Foundation, Alex von Furstenberg oversees his family’s support of a wide range of charities and worthy causes. The Diller – Von Furstenberg Family Foundation works with a wide range of charitable and nonprofit projects and initiatives in education, community development, environmental protection, disease research, arts and humanities promotion, and human rights advocacy. The Diller – von Furstenberg Family Foundation supports the following nonprofits, among many others: Big Brothers / Big Sisters of America Central Park Conservancy Comfort Zone Camp Motion Picture & Television Fund (Social Workers) NYC Police Foundation Andre Sobel River of Life Foundation Citymeals-on-Wheels Heart of Los Angeles Youth Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City Anti-Defamation League of Bnai Brith Human Rights Campaign Human Rights Watch International Women’s Media Foundation International Rescue Committee Oxfam America Recently, Alex Von Furstenberg announced the foundation’s support of the Watt/Willowbrook Boys and Girls Club’s orchestra with a $50,000 grant. This generous donation was a follow-up to Alex Von Furstenberg’s announcement that the Foundation granted $50,000 to the Los Angeles Mission and Anne Douglas Center for Women. This donation directly helped Los Angeles most vulnerable citizens get the help t…

Angelina Jolie
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2023-12-19T22:59:54Z
subject: Angelina Jolie
subject: Actresses
description: Angelina Jolie is an inspiring model in philanthropy. The Los Angeles, California-born celebrity is ranked as... The post Angelina Jolie appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Angelina Jolie is an inspiring model in philanthropy. The Los Angeles, California-born celebrity is ranked as the 3rd highest actress in the Forbes Celebrity 100. The exclusive list of the entertainment industry’s most powerful, rich, and famous also notes her number 1 position in the web. Only one thing about her can possibly eclipse her stellar career as a critically acclaimed actress: the fact that she is an influential philanthropist and an internationally respected humanitarian. With her equally high-profile ex-partner Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie donated more than $8.5 million to their Jolie-Pitt Foundation in 2006 alone. Among the recipient charitable organizations are Global AIDS Alliance, Doctors Without Borders, the Daniel Pearl Foundation, Namibia Red Cross Action Program, the Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation and Global Green USA. It also supports victims of the Iraq war, particularly the children affected. Other programs work toward providing relief for Darfur refugees. In 2008 the Jolie-Pitt Foundation was given all the proceeds of the $14 million-worth exclusive photos of the couple’s newborn twins. People magazine and British Hello! Magazine paid for these snapshots of Vivienne Marcheline and Knox Léon, born July 12 that year. Also in 2008, the couple worked with Global Health Committee. The non-profit group received the gift of $2 million for the construction of a center for AIDS and tuberculosis-afflicted children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In honor of their generous donation, the clinic will be named after Zahara, who Jolie adopted from Ethiopia. Angelina Jolie became a committed humanitarian advocate in 2000 when her filming of Tomb Raider took her to Cambodia and opened her eyes to its harsh realities. With the realization that the situation in the country was a mere echo of so many other afflicted communities, she decided to be the change herself. Since her appointment in 2001, Angelina Jolie has been a devoted United Nations High C…

Michael Jordan
type: item
creator: Jessica
date: 2023-12-19T22:47:32Z
subject: Michael Jordan
subject: NBA
description: Michael Jordan is acknowledged by innumerable fans to be the greatest basketball player of all time.... The post Michael Jordan appeared first on Faces of Philanthropy.
encoded: Michael Jordan is acknowledged by innumerable fans to be the greatest basketball player of all time. Fondly called “Air Jordan” and “His Airness” by his countless fans, Michael Jordan’s exceptional leaping ability and his uncanny to continually score made him a crowd favorite, and he was instrumental in popularizing the NBA around the world. After retirement, Michael Jordan has been active in business and humanitarian work, having made various contributions to charity to support children, family issues and disaster relief. He has auctioned off some of his basketball equipment and memorabilia for charity and holds the Michael Jordan Golf Invitational to raise funds. • In 1994, Jordan founded the James R. Jordan Boys and Girls Club and Family Life Center in the memory of his father. Located in Chicago, Illinois, Jordan gave $2 million to construct the sprawling facility that houses a computer center, science lab, healthcare, clinic, gym, day care center and more. The Center caters to more than 1,000 children and families each week. • He collaborated with Nike-subsidiary Jordan Brand to make a donation of $500,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana’s Slidell Unit to help finance the construction of a new athletic gymnasium that the kids of the Boys and Girls Club will use for their activities and community events. • In 2006, he donated $450,000 to Habitat for Humanity to aid rebuilding efforts in Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Through Hoops for Homes, a program created to benefit the relief operations, several pairs of Michael Jordan autographed Air Jordan shoes were auctioned off to raise additional funds. The auction money helped rebuilt the homes ravaged by the hurricane in the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans. • Jordan also supports education initiatives. Parts of the proceeds from his auctions go to Jordan Fundamentals, an education program that grants $1 million annually for teachers. In 2006, he and his then-wife Juanita made a $5 million…