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Chuck Feeney
38quotes
Chuck Feeney
Full Name and Common Aliases
Chuck Feeney is a well-known American billionaire and philanthropist. He is also known as the "James Bond of Philanthropy" due to his discreet and strategic approach to giving.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: 1931, Died: still alive
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Businessman, Investor, Philanthropist
Early Life and Background
Chuck Feeney was born in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. He grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, which instilled in him a strong sense of social responsibility from an early age. After completing his education at Cornell University, he went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force before attending Harvard Business School.
Major Accomplishments
Feeney's business career began with Dunne & Feeney, a liquor distribution company that he co-founded with his friend Tom Dunne in 1960. The company grew rapidly and eventually became part of the Duty-Free Shoppers conglomerate. In 1982, Feeney sold his interest in the company for $1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the world at the time.
Notable Works or Actions
Feeney's philanthropic efforts are notable for their strategic and long-term approach. He established the Atlantic Philanthropies organization in 1982 to manage his giving, with a focus on education, healthcare, human rights, peace, and justice. Over the years, he has donated billions of dollars to various causes around the world, often through Atlantic Philanthropies.
Impact and Legacy
Chuck Feeney's impact on philanthropy cannot be overstated. His strategic approach to giving has inspired many others to follow in his footsteps. He has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives and projects that have improved lives and communities worldwide. In 2017, he gifted the entire $8 billion fortune of Atlantic Philanthropies to charitable causes, marking one of the largest-ever donations by an individual.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Chuck Feeney is widely quoted and remembered for his commitment to strategic philanthropy and his willingness to give away his vast fortune during his lifetime. His approach has been praised by experts and individuals alike, who have taken note of the significant positive impact he has made on society. As a result, he continues to be an inspiration to people around the world who are looking to make a difference through their giving.
Quotes by Chuck Feeney
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I cannot think of a more personally rewarding and appropriate use of wealth than to give while one is living.
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I believe strongly in 'giving while living.' I see little reason to delay giving when so much good can be achieved through supporting worthwhile causes today. Besides, it's a lot more fun to give while you live than to give while you are dead.
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When you’ve got the money, you spend it. When you’ve spent it all, let someone else get going and spend theirs.
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I had one idea that never changed in my mind – that you should use your wealth to help people.
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I believe strongly in ‘giving while living.’ I see little reason to delay giving when so much good can be achieved through supporting worthwhile causes today.
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They decided as part of my 75th birthday celebrations that I would be entitled to fly first class. I'll be honest, I'm not good at flying anymore. To my credit, I can stretch out on two coach seats.
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There are restaurants you can go in and pay $100 a person for a meal. I get as much satisfaction out of paying $25.
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I had one idea that never changed in my mind—that you should use your wealth to help people.
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