AB de Villiers' charity initiative: Who is benefitting?

Former South Africa legend AB de Villiers who is often regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time, is celebrating his 41st birthday today, on Monday, February 17. He represented the 'Rainbow Nation' between 2004-2019 and was acknowledged for his powerful innings with bat, and exceptional fielding skills.

Tagged as  "Mr. 360" in the world of cricket for his ability to hit shots all around the ground, de Villiers reformulated modern batting and was a key player in South Africa’s cricketing success.

Debuting in 2005, the Pretoria-born played 228 ODI's in total, lettering 9,577 runs, scoring 25 tons and 53 half-centuries. The explosive batter has appeared in 114 Tests, leading him to score 8,765 runs, which includes 22 tons, two double centuries and 45 fifties, respectively.

Not just on the field, but off the field as well, AB de Villiers has been a source of hope and life. People globally have noticed his deep admiration for working towards charity and social initiatives. For his consistent work of philanthropic activities, he was awarded the Honourary lifetime membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 2019. However, his efforts have often gone unnoticed due to his cricketing genius. Today on his special day, let's peep into the lesser-known side of the South African legend.

Here are the top charity initiatives of AB de Villiers:

4. The Make a Difference (MAD) Foundation

The Make a Difference (MAD) foundation solely focuses on supporting underprivileged children through sports and education. The foundation offers scholarships, lectures and useful resources to help the children reach their full potential. 

By collaborating with schools and organizations, MAD identifies talented young individuals who lack financial backing and offers them opportunities to grow. He trains and mentors the children by himself, through which the foundation aims to create a lasting, positive impact, empowering the next generation of leaders.

Also Check- Jasprit Bumrah's charity initiatives: Who's benefitting?

3. Collaboration with UNICEF

As a UNICEF Ambassador, AB de Villiers has actively supported initiatives focused on child health, education, and protection. De Villiers has used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as malnutrition, access to clean water, and the importance of education.

His collaboration aims to create lasting positive change for vulnerable children, leveraging his popularity to inspire others to take action and support the organization's global efforts to provide a better future for children in need.

Also Check- Rahul Dravid's charity initiatives: Who is benefitting?

2. Hardship fund: 3Team Cricket Solitary

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ABD helped in supporting the struggling cricketers through the Hardship Fund, an initiative by Cricket South Africa (CSA). The fund aimed to provide financial assistance to players, coaches, and staff affected by the crisis.

As a follow-up to this, De Villiers led the team 'Eagles'' in the 3Team Cricket (3TC) Solidarity Cup, a charity match that lifted important funds. The initiative highlighted cricket’s unity and commitment to helping its community.

1. Home Matters Initiative

'Home Matters' initiative supported by AB de Villers, aims to contest the housing poverty in India's low-income society by promoting affordable and easy shelter solutions. De Villiers has actively promoted this cause, leveraging his platform to raise awareness and funds. His involvement underscores his commitment to social responsibility and his desire to make a positive impact beyond the cricket field.

Infact, when it comes to India he has shown immense respect for the country and its people. He once said that he received so much love and support from India throughout his illustrious cricket career, that he is now always on the lookout to give back something to the great nation in any capacity he probably can.

Also Read- Virat Kohli's charity initiatives: Who's benefitting?