Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross has committed to donate half or more of his money to charity, it was announced Tuesday.
Ross, 72, is among the latest wealthy families and individuals who have made a commitment to the Giving Pledge, a long-term, global initiative created by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates.
Now in its third year, the Giving Pledge invites the world’s wealthiest individuals and families to commit half of their wealth to philanthropic causes and charitable organizations of their choice.
“As a very young boy my uncle taught me a valuable lesson, the importance of giving back and using your impact and influence to make the world a better place,” Ross said in a statement. “Although I have generally conducted my philanthropic efforts privately, I hope through publicly committing to the Giving Pledge that I will inspire others to commit to significant philanthropy the way my uncle inspired me.
“I am delighted, grateful and honored to join this important effort in the hope that collectively we can leave the world a little better place than we found it.”
Forbes lists Ross’ net worth at $4.4 billion as of March 2013.
The new pledges raised the number of Giving Pledge signatories to 114 representing 10 countries, 23 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.
The latest signatories come from diverse business backgrounds including technology, real estate, apparel and finance.
