Jeff Bezos’ ex-wife Mackenzie Scott and the American billionaire philanthropist have donated $20 million to Active Minds, a US non-profit organization that works with young people to change the culture of mental health. The donation is the largest in the organization’s history and comes as Scott continues his large-scale philanthropic efforts after selling much of his Amazon stock over the years. The latest gift is open-ended, allowing the nonprofit to decide how to use the money to expand mental health programs, support young leaders and respond to community needs, the Fortune report said.
Mackenzie Scott makes the largest donation in Active Minds history
Fortune reported that MacKenzie Scott’s $20 million donation is the largest Active Minds has ever received. The organization focuses on mobilizing youth and young adults to raise awareness of mental health and reduce stigma around mental illness. Unlike many large donations, Scott did not place any restrictions on how the money should be spent.“Mackenzie Scott’s investment in Active Minds is transformative not only in its scope, but also in its recognition of young people as key drivers of change in mental health,” Active Minds founder and CEO Alison Malmon told Fortune.She added: “Unlimited support gives us the flexibility to deploy resources where need and opportunity are greatest, while building our long-term capacity to meet this critical moment.”The nonprofit said it plans to use the funds to strengthen its national network, support youth initiatives and expand mental health programs for high school and college students.
Mackenzie Scott’s donation comes amid youth mental health issues
The donation comes amid growing concerns about the mental health of young people in the United States. In 2023, about one in five American schoolchildren seriously considered suicide, according to Fortune, with many teens also reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression.Mackenzie Scott has become one of the most active philanthropists in the world in recent years. Since 2020, she has donated nearly $26 billion through her philanthropic work, supporting education, healthcare, climate change, food security and community organizations.Earlier this year, Mackenzie Scott donated $70 million to Meals on Wheels America, $72 million to Red Lake Nation College and $42 million to Elizabeth City State University.