Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has announced the latest recipients of the Bezos Courage & Civility Award, awarding actress Eva Longoria and retired Admiral Bill McRaven $50 million each to donate to charities of their choice. The award, established in 2021, aims to support leaders tackling today’s most challenging issues.
Longoria, known for her roles in Desperate Housewives and her advocacy for the Latino community, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to further her work through her foundation, focusing on expanding opportunities for Latinos in the U.S. McRaven, recognized for overseeing the 2011 military raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden, emphasized the impact of Bezos’ generosity on veterans and their families.
Previous recipients of the Bezos Courage & Civility Award include activist Van Jones, chef José Andrés, and entertainer Dolly Parton, highlighting a diverse range of individuals making significant contributions to society.
Bezos’ philanthropic gesture comes amid his recent return to the top of the list of the world’s richest individuals, fueled by substantial sales of Amazon stock in recent weeks.
By recognizing and supporting leaders like Longoria and McRaven, Bezos continues to champion initiatives aimed at addressing pressing global challenges, leaving a lasting impact on communities around the world.