By Tim Saunders on
Veteran actor Kirk Douglas has blogged about his support of the young people who attend the high school named after him in California.
“A few weeks ago, I made a visit to the Kirk Douglas High School,” he wrote on his MySpace page. "I am proud that they asked to name their school after me. One of my pet projects is to try to inspire young people to at least have a high school education. Then, I try to encourage them to go to college. As a small inducement I give every graduate a $500 check.
“When I spoke to the students I was surprised that they each gave me their personal pledge of what they wanted to do in life to improve our world: from volunteering in hospitals and local schools, to supporting our troops by sending letters and care packages. One student has agreed to help the elderly by volunteering at a convalescent center (I wonder if I inspired him).
“I am proud of the students of Kirk Douglas High School.”
Kirk Douglas is well known for his community work. The 92-year-old holds an annual star-studded event at the Los Angeles Mission every Thanksgiving in which celebrities help volunteers feed the homeless.
He also has a keen interest in improving LA’s playgrounds. Along with his wife, Anne, he established the Anne & Kirk Douglas Playground Award to provide assistance to the Los Angeles Unified School District to enhance their schools’ outdoor and recreational spaces. The award supports and encourages Los Angeles public school communities in creating playgrounds that will be the keystones of campus revitalization and give the city’s children the fulfilling experiences and opportunities they deserve.
To watch a video of Douglas addressing the school, click here.
Copyright © 2009 Look to the Stars
