SAN DIEGO, California — Leighton Meester is an American actress, singer and model. She rose to fame for her lead role as the iconic Blair Waldorf character in the hit 2000s teen drama series, “Gossip Girl.” She has also starred and acted in many other shows and movies, produced music and participated in modeling gigs. A lesser-known fact about the multitalented individual, however, is that she is a philanthropist who has made multiple contributions to helping developing nations, particularly those in Africa and Latin America.
Meester’s philanthropy is shown through her contributions to the ONE Campaign and the “Many Hopes” organizations, which aim to end poverty, violence, preventable diseases and other unjust living circumstances in certain countries. Here is information about Leighton Meester’s contributions to developing nations.
Meester’s Contributions to Developing Nations
Many Hopes is a nonprofit organization that aims to save impoverished children in Africa and Latin America from injustices such as abuse, abandonment, slavery and more. It provides children with shelter, education and additional support for them to “become adults with the capacity and the character to help others.” The organization began by building homes for girls in Kenya. It eventually expanded into the organization it is today, “a global community of volunteers and fundraisers committed to rescuing and raising children.”
Meester showed her support by becoming one of the organization’s fundraisers. She first contributed in 2015, hoping to help build schools and homes for children in Kenya who needed shelter and education. Since then, she has supported Many Hopes in several ways, including selling her personal items on eBay. These items ranged from designer clothing and accessories to one of her Teen Choice Awards and she donated 100% of the proceeds to Many Hopes.
Additionally, the “Gossip Girl ” star supported Many Hopes by performing at a monthly 2015 event at Skybar at The Mondrian. The event raised funds for the organization and she contributed by taking the stage to help generate donations for the cause.
Meester’s Contributions to the ONE Campaign
Not only is nearly half of Africa’s population living in extreme poverty, but it is also the most affected region by HIV/AIDS in the world. The ONE Campaign is a nonpartisan organization that aims to provide aid to people living in poverty in Africa and other developing nations. It also works to improve public health by tackling HIV/AIDS and other preventable diseases across the continent. As the organization does not receive government funding, it relies on its network of activists, philanthropists, partners, influencers and other stakeholders.
That being said, the ONE Campaign has garnered the support of many celebrities, including philanthropist Meester. Meester has supported the ONE Campaign’s efforts to end extreme poverty by advocating for HIV/AIDS prevention, improved access to health care and greater food security in developing nations. Her involvement helped amplify the organization’s calls for stronger global policies and increased international aid.
Final Remarks
While Leighton Meester was able to play the mean girl part perfectly, it is a relief to find that it was merely an act. She has consistently demonstrated her kindness by supporting causes that help those in need, particularly in Africa and Latin America.
– Renata Hirmiz
Renata is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Flickr
