Sometimes the biggest stars are also the biggest givers. Do you know which of your favorite movie stars are also deeply involved in philanthropic efforts? Public relations expert Josh Heller lists five celebrities using their platform to impact change.

• Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer, star of the stand-up comedy genre, is also a well-known philanthropist. In addition to being a financial supporter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Schumer has founded her charity called Stylefund. “Stylefund is a unique initiative as it receives fashionable clothing donations from high profile brands,” said Heller. “And then the organization helps clothe women re-entering the workforce. It is an effort designed to foster confidence and self-love.” 

• Jerry Seinfeld

“Everyone knows Jerry Seinfeld as an iconic actor and comedian,” said Heller. “But they may not know of his tendencies for charitable giving. He keeps a low profile despite being a major philanthropist.” Including organizations like Autism Speaks and Stand Up for a Cure, Seinfeld has raised over a million dollars for charitable causes.

• Jamie Gertz

You may know Jamie Gertz from movies like Sixteen Candles and Gilda Radner: It’s Always Something. Along with her husband, Antony Ressler, Gertz founded the Gertz-Ressler Foundation. “They focus on health care, the arts, and Jewish organizations,” said Heller. “The foundation has raised over ten million dollars for worthwhile causes.”

• Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively are a charitable power couple. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, they donated a million dollars between Feeding America and Food Banks Canada. “But it wasn’t just a one-time donation,” said Heller. “Reynolds particularly has been focused on giving low-income youth and families warm meals and medical care. Especially as the holidays approach and COVID-19 numbers spike once more.”

• Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton is so much more than a country music star. She has a long history of philanthropy. “From helping families during natural disasters to funding literacy programs for kids, Dolly has done so much to improve the lives of others,” said Heller. According to Heller, Parton has been in the news recently because of her significant efforts to fund the search for a COVID-19 vaccine. “She donated a million dollars to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to aid in vaccine research,” said Heller.