Douglas Foundation

Poverty was a familiar reality in Kirk Douglas’s youth. Born Issur Danielovitch in Amsterdam, New York, Kirk was the son of illiterate Russian immigrants who came to the United States in the early twentieth century seeking a better life.

As Kirk’s success in the film industry brought him and his wife, Anne, the rewards of celebrity, they remained committed to giving back. Their philanthropy reflected not only gratitude for their blessings but also a desire to teach their children and grandchildren the values they had learned about the power and joy of generosity. Although Kirk passed away in 2020 at the age of 103 and Anne followed a year later, their commitment to using their good fortune to enrich the lives of others lives on through the Douglas Foundation.