Life

Marie Louise McConville: I'd be happy to help Jeff Bezos spend his billions

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who is said to be worth $124 billion, has announced this week that he is to give away most of his fortune to charities fighting climate change. Picture by PA Photo/Amazon
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who is said to be worth $124 billion, has announced this week that he is to give away most of his fortune to charities fighting climate change. Picture by PA Photo/Amazon Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who is said to be worth $124 billion, has announced this week that he is to give away most of his fortune to charities fighting climate change. Picture by PA Photo/Amazon

Someone once said that money is the root of all evil - but I'm not so sure.

Although, to be fair, I always find it bizarre when I read how unhappy people with money are, especially lottery winners.

Some of them will tell you that the windfall turned out to be the worst thing to happen them and I just don't understand it.

After posing with the big fancy cheque, some have gone to find their lives fall apart and they are left surrounded only by people who may not have their best interests at heart.

When I dream about winning the lottery, after taking care of all the essentials - new house, new car, opening a dessert shop, and looking after family and friends - I like to think I would help some good causes.

Of course, the world would be a much better place if all those with plenty of money just played a little part in bettering the lives of others but sadly they don't. That is, except for one particular billionaire.

You may not instantly know who Jeff Bezos is but chances are, you've used the service he created.

The Amazon founder, who is said to be worth $124 billion, has announced this week that he is to give away most of his fortune to charities.

The 58-year-old told CNN that he wants to support people who can unify humanity and heal deep social and political divisions.

He's already started - by giving country singing legend Dolly Parton a whopping $100 million for her "love and compassion in work".

Speaking about the decision, Jeff said: "Look at what she's done and how she's led her life. The way she's done it is by doing bold things, always with civility and kindness.

"She's a unifier, we have big problems in the world and the way big problems are dealt with is you have to work together.

"When you think of Dolly, everyone smiles. All she wants to do is bring light into other people’s world. That’s all, and so we couldn’t have thought of someone better than to give this award to".

Speaking about Jeff, Dolly said: "When people are in a position to help, they should help.

"And I know that I’ve always said ‘I try to put my money where my heart is’. And I think you do the same thing".

Jeff has also committed $10 billion over 10 years Bezos Earth Fund.

And while we don't know who or which cause will be next, the fourth richest man in the world has said he is finding philanthropy "very hard".

Well Jeff, I hate to see anyone suffer.

I'd like to send you a same-day-delivery virtual high-five for the good work you're carrying out.

It's great to see someone using their wealth for the betterment of mankind.

And call me, I'd be more than happy to help you spend a few quid.

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Autism NI is asking coffee and tea lovers to come together this December to host a ‘Big Christmas Cuppa’ morning to help raise money to support its vital work.

The charity said the event is a great opportunity for family, friends or work colleagues get together for a good cause.

Rachel Leung, Autism NI Fundraising Manager, said: "Any donation received big or small will make a huge difference to the services we provide for the autism community across Northern Ireland".

Those signing up will receive a free fundraising pack.

Further information is available at www.autismni.org

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