Viola Davis, Jennifer Lopez, Reese Witherspoon, Jane Fonda Honored; What Did 'How To Get Away With Murder’ Star Do Just To Eat?

Viola Davis, Jennifer Lopez, Reese Witherspoon, Jane Fonda Honored; What Did 'How To Get Away With Murder' Star Do Just To Eat?  

Variety Power of Women recently recognized Viola Davis, Jennifer Lopez, Reese Witherspoon and Jane Fonda for their humanitarian efforts, Fay Observer reported.

The recognition ceremony was conducted through a Lifetime-sponsored luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, which was attended by "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, "Wild" author Cheryl Strayed, Maria Bello and Allison Janney, Fox News reported.

During the luncheon where they accepted their awards, the women shared personal stories that inspired them to pursue their philanthropic endeavors.

Working with the Hunger Is campaign, Davis considers raising awareness about hunger in the United States the joy of her life.

Since she herself grew up in what she called "abject poverty," the "How To Get Away With Murder" actress shared she is driven to end childhood hunger. She recalled having to steal and crawl through maggot-filled garbage bins just to get food.

"I sacrificed a childhood for food and grew up in immense shame," the 49-year-old actress said and thanked her supporters and colleagues for giving her the opportunity to stand up in front of many people to share her testimony and start the healing process.

While busy with her efforts to end childhood hunger, Davis stars in "How to Get Away With Murder," which debuted to 14.3 million viewers, Essence has learned.

For Lopez, it was her children who inspired her to launch the Lopez Family Foundation, which she launched with her sister, Lynda, when they were pregnant together. The foundation aims to help poor families acquire high-quality health care.

Similarly, Witherspoon was inspired by her daughter, Ava. She was recognized for her involvement with the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai's  educational advocacy organization, the Malala Fund.

On the other hand, Fonda has worked with various philanthropic programs, but Variety Power of Women recognized her specifically for the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential, which she created for teen pregnancy prevention and healthy lifestyles campaign.

Fonda said she grew up believing that "service is the rent you pay for life."

Along with Davis, Lopez, Witherspoon, and Fonda, Universal Pictures chair Donna Langley and Jessica Matthews were also recognized for their works with Vital Voices and Soccket respectively.

 

 

Tags : How to Get Away with Murder viola davis jennifer lopez reese witherspoon jane fonda Nobel Peace Prize Malala Yousafzai