Good intent: If anyone is capable of bringing a bit of levity to the reconstruction of devastated Haiti, it’s Ben Stiller. The comedian cleverly parlayed his much-loved Blue Steel look and Lance Armstrong’s well-recognized LIVESTRONG to create his own foundation STILLERSTRONG. The nonprofit even boasts a signature accessory — the Stillerstrong headband. Comic relief: And, the great thing about the gift of making others laugh (and of course having other talented friends like Robert De Niro) is Stiller’s power to get people’s attention. He does exactly that with a series of videos promoting the cause. Ahead of the curve: While many have turned their attention and generosity to Haiti since the January 20 disaster, Stiller’s commitment came in late 2009, after a visit to the impoverished nation. Plans to build schools were already being put into motion, as was the idea for the awareness-raising headband. Stiller also recently joined forces with fellow Hollywood player and Haitian advocate, director Paul Haggis. Haggis’ organization, Artists for Peace and Justice, and Stillerstrong pledged to rebuild as many schools as possible, which provide more than just education. School is often the only place where kids in Haiti have access to clean water and medical attention.
At a glance:
- Temporary schools in Haiti will likely range in price from $45,000-$75,000.
- To date, the STILLERSTRONG Haitian School Initiative has raised $299,549. Give by text, credit card or shopping.
- Stiller participated in A Night of 140 Tweets with fellow activists and Twitter enthusiasts, among them, Mr. and Mrs. Kutcher, Aziz Ansari, Will Farrell, Rain Wilson and Sarah Silverman. 100 percent of proceeds of the DVD of the event will help build schools in Haiti.
Photo by PR Photos.