Courtesy of Miguel Angel Azua Garcia

Many people know Matt Damon for his blockbuster movies but what he may end up being better known for will be his charitable works.  This past month I was reading Parade magazine where Damon wrote a moving article about the role we can all play in making a world a better place.  The article entitled “We Can Move Mountains” highlights why he is so passionate about his philanthropic endeavors.

Here in Cambridge it seems Ben Affleck gets more attention than Matt Damon because of their Cambridge roots.  Ben Affleck is definitely more visible at times though their careers seem to have evolved in different ways.  Damon always seemed the risk taker when it cames to roles, not really including big action movies like the Bourne movies until later in his career.  His earlier movies like Saving Private Ryan and The Talented Mr. Ripley were more about the role than the movies.  Affleck on the other hand seemed to like the spotlight and went for those leading roles earlier(think Armageddon).  They both have proven their staying power in a very fickle industry.  Damon with his commanding box office performances and Affleck with his growing directorial efforts(Gone Baby Gone).

Damon wrote the article in Parade magazine to promote America’s Giving Challenge which is an initiative to raise awareness for charities from a grass roots perspective.  As Damon mentions in the article every contribution big or small moves the ball forward.  Whether you give of your time, your money and even just pass the message along you can make a difference.  I think at times we can’t relate to problems in far away countries like Africa, which is a big focus for Damon.  I do think you can look within your own country to find causes worthy of your attention.  Poverty and hunger exist everywhere.

Make a difference and join America’s Giving Challenge.

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