Australian born actor Hugh Jackman has been sharing some of his generous Aussie spirit with charity organisations in the United States.
He recently raised over AU$800,000 for Broadway Cares, a nonprofit group dedicated to helping provide services for those with AIDS and other chronic conditions, according to this report by the Australian Associated Press.
In recognition of his efforts, Mr Jackman was awarded with a special prize at the Tony awards held over the weekend, presented to him by none other than his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness.
The Tony's recognise excellence in Broadway theatre. Originally from Sydney, the Wolverine star began his career on the Broadway stage nearly ten years ago when starring in The Boy From Oz.
Mr Jackman's contributions to charity serve as an example of a lucrative nonprofit marketing strategy - celebrities who are prepared to put their name alongside a good cause can help charities raise an impressive amount of money.
Just last month the successful reality television series Celebrity Apprentice Australia wrapped up, with the winner - Ian 'Dicko' Dickson - managing to secure $100,000 for his chosen charity, the Australian Children's Music Foundation (ACMF).
Runner-up Nathan Joliffe also won $80,000 for Epilepsy Australia. Other charities were promoted throughout the series, with each celebrity having to pick their chosen organisation.
For example, presenter Charlotte Dawson supported the Smile Foundation while Ben Dark represented the Brisbane Royal Children's Hospital.
Aside from television shows, music concerts are another good fundraising opportunity. The ACMF itself is actually hosting a Gala Charity Concert in August, which will feature well-known performers including Tim Finn and James Morrison.
And of course, inviting a familiar face to a charity event is sure to attract many more attendees.
The international website, Look To The Stars, outlines a list of global celebrities who have attached themselves to events and organisations as of late.
British comedians Stephen Fry and Ruby Wax recently hosted an Oxfam Tea Party in Britain, whereas Rod Stewart attended a charity ball in London in late May that raised over £1,500,000 for a British nonprofit, Caudwell Children.
Meanwhile, here in Australia, household names such as Kylie Minogue, the Irwin family and Olivia Newton John are regularly working the charity scene.
International stars including Lance Armstrong and David Beckham have also headed to our shores in previous months to show their support for local organisations and causes.
