Hollywood is shining a spotlight on giving back, with Glen Powell wounded veterans support efforts exemplifying how celebrities are using their platforms to make a difference. Across the entertainment industry, well-known figures are dedicating energy and resources to help wounded veterans and other vital causes in 2024, encouraging community involvement and compassion.
Stars Who Transform Compassion Into Action
Public figures play an outsized role in shaping culture, often inspiring hope, resilience, and unity by sharing their personal stories of growth and commitment to humanitarian work. Recent events and initiatives highlight stars who have prioritized giving, not only in their professional lives but in the causes they champion off-screen as well.
Eric Dane’s Fight Against ALS
Shortly after revealing his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), actor Eric Dane partnered with the Push for Progress campaign from I Am ALS. The initiative is designed to increase federal funding for ALS research. In fall 2023, Dane’s determination was clear in a discussion with Congressman Eric Swalwell:
“I’m gonna fight until the last breath on this one,”
Eric Dane, Actor and ALS Advocate
In recognition of his advocacy, Dane received the ALS Network Advocate of the Year award, continuing to urge others to support research and awareness for this challenging disease.
Bad Bunny Champions Young People
Super Bowl 2026 halftime headliner Bad Bunny, or Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has targeted his philanthropic efforts towards empowering youth, particularly in his home country of Puerto Rico. Through the Good Bunny Foundation, he has contributed to rebuilding hurricane-damaged sports facilities, awarding educational grants, and hosting annual summer camps. His outlook is ambitious:
“impact as many lives as possible.”
Bad Bunny, Musician and Philanthropist
“discover in their passions a path to transform their lives and communities.”
Bad Bunny, Musician and Philanthropist
These programs have opened doors for many young Puerto Ricans, setting a new standard for hands-on celebrity philanthropy.
Drew and Jonathan Scott Lead Homebuilding Efforts
The Property Brothers, Drew and Jonathan Scott, have extended their television expertise to philanthropy through their support of Habitat for Humanity. Joining over a thousand volunteers, they helped construct 25 new homes in Austin, Texas, at the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Drew puts the importance of their work simply:
“These are the OG Property Brothers and Property Sisters,”
Drew Scott, TV Host and Humanitarian
“If you’ve ever watched Property Brothers and you’re like, ‘That looks so fun,’ guess what? They’ll let you do that here, and it’s for a good cause. Nothing’s more rewarding than volunteering with Habitat.”
Jonathan Scott, TV Host and Humanitarian
By encouraging people from all backgrounds to get involved, the Scotts demonstrate how anyone can contribute to building stronger communities.
Jamie-Lynn Sigler Raises MS Awareness
Sopranos star Jamie-Lynn Sigler, living with multiple sclerosis since 2017, has become a passionate advocate for patients. She co-created the Reflect, Reframe, Reach Out guide and cohosts the MeSsy podcast with Christina Applegate, who is also diagnosed with MS. Sigler credits her activism with giving her renewed purpose:
“the greatest purpose I have ever had,”
Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Actress and MS Advocate
Her open dialogue and supportive efforts are making a substantial impact in encouraging others to talk about their battles and seek help.
Jennifer Aniston Backs Animal Shelters
Last year, Jennifer Aniston launched the Clydeo Fund to aid animal shelters worldwide, naming it after a beloved character inspired by her own rescue pet. Her commitment is underscored by her heartfelt motivation:
“which is very, very, very dear to my heart.”
Jennifer Aniston, Actress and Animal Advocate
The Clydeo Fund has provided shelters with resources needed to better care for rescues, underscoring Aniston’s long-standing love for animals.
Noah Wyle Advocates for Healthcare Workers
Noah Wyle has used his platform in medical dramas such as The Pitt to raise awareness about the sacrifices and struggles of healthcare professionals. Speaking at a Los Angeles fundraiser, he expressed his hopes:
“hopefully raises compassion for people who are there to pick up our broken pieces,”
Noah Wyle, Actor and Healthcare Advocate
Teaming up with his mother, nurse Marjorie Wyle-Katz, Wyle lobbied Congress for policies to ease the burdens faced by medical workers. He credits his drive to early life lessons in empathy:
“I was born with an extra dose of empathy, I guess,”
Noah Wyle, Actor and Healthcare Advocate
“It was drilled into us to try to leave the world better than we find it. I remember being in fifth or sixth grade, it was a mandatory class assignment to tune into the End Hunger Network, which was a telethon to try to end starvation. I was really upset by it, so I pledged half of my allowance going forward. For years, I sent money. I don’t believe I’ve helped end hunger yet, but hope remains eternal.”
Noah Wyle, Actor and Healthcare Advocate
Through advocacy and activism, Noah Wyle continues to champion the well-being of frontline medical professionals, reminding the public of their vital role.
Glen Powell’s Dedication to Wounded Veterans
Glen Powell, known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, has long admired the Blue Angels, an elite U.S. Navy flight squadron. In 2024, he produced a documentary to benefit the Blue Angels Foundation, dedicated to aiding wounded veterans’ recovery and transition back into civilian life. Reflecting on his experience, Powell said:
“the best [of] the United States,”
Glen Powell, Actor and Producer
“It was such a privilege to put those heroes on the screen.”
Glen Powell, Actor and Producer
Powell’s efforts reflect a growing trend among top Hollywood figures to shine a spotlight on military veterans, providing both tangible assistance and raising public awareness about their ongoing challenges.
Pedro Pascal Stands with the Transgender Community
Pedro Pascal has emerged as a vocal ally for transgender rights, speaking publicly for acceptance and against discrimination. In support of his transgender sister, Lux, and the larger community, Pascal posted on Instagram in February:
“I can’t think of anything more vile and small and pathetic than terrorizing the smallest, most vulnerable community of people who want nothing from you, expect the right to exist,”
Pedro Pascal, Actor and Activist
His advocacy extended to publicly wearing a ‘Protect the Dolls’ T-shirt designed to benefit the Trans Lifeline charity, reinforcing his stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion in entertainment and beyond.
Jason and Kylie Kelce Commit to Autism Initiatives
In a powerful statement of dedication, former NFL player Jason Kelce participated in the Team 62 fundraiser for the Eagles Autism Foundation, which has generated over $2.4 million since 2021. The drive was inspired by his wife, Kylie Kelce, motivated by her lifelong friendship with an autistic individual. She explained her passion:
“I have a special place in my heart for individuals on the spectrum,”
Kylie Kelce, Advocate and Philanthropist
Their commitment included creating a sensory room at the Philadelphia Eagles’ stadium to make football games more accessible for neurodivergent attendees, setting an example for inclusive sports experiences.
Megan Thee Stallion Fights Mental Health Stigma
Megan Thee Stallion, known for her openness about personal challenges with depression and PTSD, was honored as The Trevor Project’s Mental Health Champion of the Year. She developed the free wellness app
“Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too”
and supports underprivileged communities through her Pete & Thomas Foundation. Her advocacy is helping destigmatize mental health discussions in the music industry and wider culture.
Jimmy Kimmel Spurs Childhood Cancer Research
Since 2010, Jimmy Kimmel has been a driving force behind L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade Stand, an event that raises funds for pediatric cancer research. The popular charity dinner, presided over by Kimmel and his wife, Molly McNearney, raised $85,000 at auction this October. He describes the event as:
“the greatest, most delicious charity event of the year”
Jimmy Kimmel, Host and Philanthropist
Kimmel’s involvement underscores how community and celebrity support can make a significant difference for children facing life-threatening illnesses.
Coco Gauff Uplifts Black Student Athletes
In February, tennis star Coco Gauff donated $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund, establishing scholarships for students at historically Black colleges and universities who excel at tennis. Gauff articulated her vision for the impact:
“the confidence to chase their dreams,”
Coco Gauff, Tennis Player
“knowing they have a strong community behind them and a bright future ahead.”
Coco Gauff, Tennis Player
Her initiative aims to empower the next generation of Black athletes by fostering educational and leadership opportunities at key institutions.
The Broader Impact: Inspiring A Wave of Generosity
The commitment of stars like Glen Powell to wounded veterans support and other high-profile causes not only brings critical assistance to those in need, but also inspires fans and communities to get involved. Their platforms amplify key messages about empathy, resilience, and the importance of community action, showing how entertainment figures can help spark meaningful, positive change. With each new initiative, these advocates are setting a lasting example of service, encouraging a culture where compassion and generosity are celebrated year-round.
