"Heal the world, make it a better place"

As people mourn the death of the pop star Michael Jackson, fans, the news media, and others are discussing his charitable work, which some say paved the way for the current surge in celebrity philanthropy.

Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for Most Charities Supported by a Pop star in 2000, Michael Jackson led by example to care for the earth and fellow inhabitants.

Accusations of the pop star failing to cotnribute sincerely are easily refuted when revising the impressive contributions of time, exposure and financial donations.

On his blog, Jeff Trexler, a professor of social entrepreneurship at Pace University, in New York, discusses the two sides to Mr. Jackson’s charity efforts.

Criticism over Jackson bringing children in need to his ranch did not stop the star from providing the opportunity to visit his home.

While there may be lessons to be learned from the way Mr. Jackson approached his philanthropy, “for now,” Mr. Trexler writes, “a moment of silence for a man who, like so many of us, gave as much as he felt that he could.”

Initiation and participation in one form or another to 39 charities including; Heal The World, End Hunger Network, Dreams Come True to name a few.

He is most celebrated for his collaboration with a total of 45 artists to create We Are the World, in an effort to fund raise for USA for Africa.

The single and album raised over 63 million dollars.

Other celebrity stars recognised for their consistent support for charitable causes include Paul Newman, Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Elton John and Bono.