August 20, 2009
Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics
Age at death: 88
Major philanthropic role: Eunice Kennedy Shriver sought to fight the stigma surrounding mental retardation by creating Special Olympics in 1961. Started as a summer camp at her suburban Maryland home, the charity — which helps people with disabilities realize their potential through athletic competition — grew steadily and now operates on a budget that nears $250-million.
Other philanthropy ties: Mrs. Shriver ran
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