It goes without saying that the rich can live comfortably. They can afford what many of us only dream of having, like a luxury car, or a beautiful summer home. These material things, however, are superficial and have little impact on the world. Some billionaires hoard their money, contributing to the growing gap▼ between the rich and the poor in the world. This is evident as the world's top 1% has US$42.7 trillion, which is more than the combined wealth of the bottom three billion people. Then there are others who engage in charitable▼ activities, donating a big part of their wealth for worthy causes▼. For example, Microsoft founder Bill Gates and his wife, Melinda, have used their foundation to support global health, education, emergency relief▼, and more.
A new series by National Geographic Channel (NGC) called Undercover Angel follows those wealthy few who have decided to give back to society. Instead of simply donating money, these patrons▼ temporarily give up their luxuries to go undercover in communities that need assistance. From there, they experience firsthand the environments of those they want to help and figure out how to create sustainable change for the community. In one episode▼, property developer▼ Lawrence Kenwright helps to build a playground for disabled children for KIDS, a charity for disabled children, in Hackney, UK. Knowing this branch▼ has been facing financial difficulties, Kenwright sets up a fund and donates around US$30,000. Playground manager Claira Scott-Gray, moved by his generosity, tearfully▼ says, "It's rewarding when other people can see the value of what you do and how important it is." Watch this and other heartwarming stories this month on NGC's Undercover Angel.
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