This post was created in partnership with American Century Investments. I have received compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's awe-inspiring as well as humbling when individuals use their personal financial success toward the good of mankind. The late Jim Stowers founded American Century Investments Profits for a Purpose in 1958 for such a purpose.
Most people have a family member or friend that has been touched by cancer or other diseases. Jim and Virginia both survived cancer and dealt with the fear and loneliness that accompanies the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness. Jim and his wife Virginia aspired to give back more than money and in doing so created the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. The Institute is dedicated to improving the quality of life through research, treatment, and prevention of gene-based diseases.
The Stowers Institute opened its doors in 2000 and employs over 550 people, including pre and post doctoral scholars and fellows from as many as 30 countries across the world. The Institute includes 22 research programs and Jim's hope was that it would blossom into a "bio-med" valley in Kansas City, including BioMed Valley Discoveries. With this, the Stowers want to bring growth and new discoveries in the scientific community that would improve humanity.
Biomedicine peer-review journals are often noting the discoveries and achievements of the Stowers' scientists. This is no surprise as the Stowers Institute for Medical Research has quickly established its reputation for the highest quality basic research and is a top innovative biomedical organization. Over a billion dollars in dividends has been contributed to the Institute since it's inception in 2000.
Jim and Virginia Stowers were determined to donate something far more valuable than money. They created Hope for Life with their investments and their dream continues to live through the Institute's advancements. They are a prime example of how financial success can be used for the greater good and hope to inspire others to do the same through.
Below is a video of a top moment at the 2014 American Century Championship, the premier event in celebrity golf. The event raises awareness and funds for national and local charities.
This is the 25th anniversary of the American Century Championship and the line up includes stars like Charles Barkley, Oscar de la Hoya, Aaron Rogers, Kevin Nealon, Ray Romano and Jack Wagner!
TerriAnn @ Cookies & Clogs
They have a seriously star-studded lineup. Great to know that the tournament will benefit such a worthy cause.
Liz Mays
It's always inspiring to see people giving back in ways like this. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Angela
It is inspiring to see other give so generously. I want to make more money so I can give more to help others.