Since Hollywood actors, actresses and musicians have realized the magnitude of their influence, many of them have dedicated their lives to not only entertaining the public, but educating it and raising awareness for different causes. It wasn’t long before the organizations they represented and worked for began recognizing them as well. Through the past couple decades many Hollywood icons have won numerous awards for their humanitarian efforts and work for charities.

 

1. Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie was awarded the Global Humanitarian Award by the United Nations Association of the USA for her work with refugees.  The actress/director has won many awards for her work as a humanitarian and contributions to charities and help in raising awareness for them.

 

2. Paul McCartney

The former Beatle was awarded the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the White House for his decades of contribution to the music industry and inspiration of genres that proceeded the Beatles era. The award is the highest honor for any musician, whether singer or songwriter. Previous recipients include Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon.

 

3. Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama in 2014. The honor is awarded to individuals who have contributed to national security, world peace, culture or any other significant cause and it is the highest honor a civilian can receive. Previous recipients include Georgia O’Keefe, Maya Angelou, John Wayne, Frank Sinatra and Henry Ford II.

 

4. Sir Elton John

Elton John was appointed Commander of the British Empire and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, making him Sir Elton John. Sir Elton was awarded this honor for all his contributions to music both in the United States and England and for his support and efforts in raising funds and awareness in the fight against AIDS.

 

5. George Clooney

Clooney has received his fair share of awards for his acting career, but his work as a humanitarian was recognized when he was honored as the fourth ever recipient of the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award by the Television Academy Board of Governors. This prestigious honor has been awarded to Oprah Winfrey and Bill Cosby for their contributions to television and humanitarian work outside of the television and film industry.