Sweet Charity

Philanthropist/vegan/television producer Sam Simon has made helping animals his life's work.

Sam Simon.

Even if you don't recognize the name, odds are good you're familiar with the man's work. He's written for many popular television shows over the years, including oldies Taxi and Cheers, but is best known for co-creating The Simpsons, which first aired 25 years ago and is still entertaining children and adults in every corner of the globe. 

Two years ago, Simon was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer. He's already beaten the odds and survived a year and a half longer than his doctors prognosticated, and the reason for his longevity just might be his philanthropic work. 

Simon--who calls himself an animal lover--has made it his mission to spend the rest of his life helping animals and people in need. He has been quoted as saying that friends and family are already well-provided for, and  that he has more money that he could ever hope to spend in his lifetime. So, what better way to leave a lasting legacy than through generous acts of kindness? 

A number of novel programs are funded through the Sam Simon Foundation, including one that pairs veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars with service dogs, and Simon gives millions away to other organizations he believes in, including PETA, The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, and