My handsome dad was born with a cleft palate. Today, the surgeries are so much more advanced, and thanks to modern technologies and incredible, generous doctors who travel the world performing corrective surgeries, children who are tragically born with these birth defects can smile beautifully and confidently and go through life without being teased, but feeling happy and proud. In some countries, many children with cleft palates are taken to orphanages and are considered difficult to place in homes. But studies show that those children who receive the surgery have a better chance at finding a family. The doctors who are part of Operation Smile donate their time and expertise, often performing surgeries in remote countries and locations to help these kids. To learn more or donate to this cause, please visit OperationSmile.org
Daily I count my blessings. I feel so incredibly fortunate to have my health, freedom, four limbs, opportunity, friends, family, resources, food, shelter and countless things for which to be grateful. It makes me sad to think of those less fortunate all over our planet. My heart especially goes out to the women. Stories I have heard and read about are disturbing and shocking. I pray there is a day when women all over the world share the same freedoms. I hope to visit Congo someday as a volunteer. Women for Women International has many amazing donation programs where you can sponsor a woman for several dollars a month or give a one-time donation and specify exactly where you want your gift to go. I first learned about this cause on Oprah's show, and I strongly believe in the program. For more information, please visit womenforwomen.org
The late actor Paul Newman, a close family friend, started the “Hole-In-The-Wall-Gang Camp” in 1988 in Ashford, Connecticut. "The Painted Turtle Camp", founded several years ago in Lake Hughes, California, is the California branch. Paul was a huge inspiration to me. His philanthropic efforts are remarkable. He and his company have raised millions of dollars and helped thousands of children all over the world. His passion drew me to this charity, and it resonates with me. The Painted Turtle Camp is an amazing place for children suffering from life-threatening diseases to visit, where they can enjoy the full camp experience and play as healthy kids do. They partake in all of the exciting camp activities, from arts and crafts to boating and fishing to high ropes courses. It enables the children and their families to meet other kids, from age seven to sixteen who may be suffering from similar conditions, feel comfortable and accepted. Jack Nicholson narrates the video, and it makes me cry every time. For more information, please visit ThePaintedTurtle.org
My dear friend Kristina Duff has an enormous heart and a contagiously beautiful spirit. Kristina founded Atta Girl in Los Angeles last year to help inspire women affected by domestic violence to get off the streets, find work, learn to believe in themselves, feel strong, beautiful and confident, and follow their life goals. Four million women are beaten and abused every year in the United States. It’s the leading cause of injury among women from ages 15 to 44. Many are left with virtually nothing after fleeing abusive situations. A very large number of girls find the courage to leave and do so with their young children, having lost their home, all belongings and in some cases, their work. Atta Girl’s activities are dedicated to supporting women during these difficult and transitional stages to help them forge ahead, through the help of workshops, support groups and shelters throughout Southern California. For more information, please visit Attagirl.org
My beloved Aunt Barbie, who went to Heaven in 2007, was my best friend and the most remarkable, altruistic, genuine person I have ever known. She was incredibly wise and had a pure, angelic soul. She taught me just about everything I know about values, and she was a lifelong inspiration. Barbie was born with cerebral palsy, and my heart goes out to this charity. The United Cerebral Paulsy Foundation provides services and advocacy for adults and children with who suffer from Cerebral Paulsy and other disabilities. The Foundation helps those with the illness live the best lives they can by finding aid to assist with everything from housing and employment to sports and recreation. There are chapters all across the country that welcome those in need, and the organization works to stay on top of constant advancements in medical treatments, health and policy that affect and benefit those suffering from Cerebral Paulsy and related disabilities. For more information, please visit UPC.org
The amazing automotive designing legend, TV personality & my great friend Chip Foose had a sister who lost her life to a rare, rapid aging disease called Progeria when she was seventeen. Chip introduced me to this cause, and I began attending the Year One sponsored Braselton Bash poker tournament & car show in Georgia every year with Chip, Kevin King, and many other celebrities, to support it. Hundreds of thousands of dollars are raised every year for the cause, which is making remarkable strides in combating this disease. Sam, to the left in the photo, has Progeria. He is the coolest guy, I just love seeing him every year! ProgeriaResearch.org