Hugh Hefner. INQUIRER.net File photo
Hugh Hefner is perhaps best known as the iconic Playboy magazine founder, but for those who knew him best, he was a generous man with a compassionate heart.
The 91-year-old businessman’s philanthropic ways were in full display in his final tweets, where he urged his one million followers to help and support the victims of the recent hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
Hefner died from “natural causes” on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) while being surrounded by loved ones inside his Playboy Mansion home in Beverly Hills, California.
READ: Playboy magazine founder Hugh Hefner dies at 91
“My thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricanes Harvey & Irma, both the victims and the first responders,” his tweet last Sept. 15 read.
“In times of such great adversity, it is inspiring to know we can put our differences aside and join together to help those in need.”
My thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricanes Harvey & Irma, both the victims and the first responders…
— Hugh Hefner (@hughhefner) September 14, 2017
… In times of such great adversity, it is inspiring to know we can put our differences aside and join together to help those in need…
— Hugh Hefner (@hughhefner) September 14, 2017
Hefner continued his plea on Sept. 19 asking netizens to donate to One America Appeal.
“In the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, an immense amount of effort will be required to recover and rebuild,” he wrote.
“Please join me in supporting ongoing relief efforts for all those affected by donating to One America Appeal.”
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, an immense amount of effort will be required to recover and rebuild…
— Hugh Hefner (@hughhefner) September 19, 2017
To donate, please visit the One America Appeal website. Link in my bio
— Hugh Hefner (@hughhefner) September 14, 2017
Apart from supporting many political advocacies over the years, Hefner offered financial support and threw fundraisers for the “Much Love Animal Rescue” movement and was presented with the Founder’s Hero of the Heart Award by the Children of the Night for his unwavering dedication, commitment and generosity, according to UNILAD.
He also offered monetary help in restoring the iconic Hollywood Sign and donated $100,000 to a course called Censorship in Cinema at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts. /ra