Trevor Donovan: A Beacon of Hope and Kindness

Abe Labrado
3 min readDec 7, 2023

--

Trevor Donovan and Kerry Kennedy

In the often frenetic world of Hollywood, Trevor Donovan stands out not just for his roles on screen but for his remarkable humanitarian efforts, particularly his dedication to the RFK Human Rights Foundation and the Team Upstanders anti-bullying program.

Trevor Donovan with Nobel Peace Laureates

For over a decade, Donovan has been closely associated with the RFK Foundation, a partnership that speaks volumes about his commitment to social change. The genesis of Team Upstanders, a program that has seen tremendous success in combating bullying, can be traced back to an unexpected moment — a simple lunch won through an RFK Foundation auction by Jackie Jaros, a middle school counselor. This meeting, seemingly ordinary, was anything but. It sparked an initiative that would profoundly impact the lives of many students.

Team Upstanders, officially launched in 2019, proved its resilience during the challenging times of the pandemic. By 2022, the program was celebrated at Deer Lakes Middle School with an inaugural pinning ceremony, marking a significant decline in bullying and fostering an environment of compassion and support. This initiative’s success story is a testament to what can be achieved when kindness is prioritized.

Beyond his work with the RFK Foundation, Donovan’s commitment to social good extends to other causes. He serves as an ambassador for Habitat for Humanity, reflecting his broad concern for social issues. His passion for animals is also evident in his advocacy for canine degenerative myelopathy.

Donovan’s work mirrors the enduring values of the RFK Foundation — a commitment to collective compassion and the belief that even the smallest gestures can catalyze significant change. His efforts have been consistently supported by his dedicated fanbase, known as the DonoFans, who avidly follow his every movie and endeavor.

In a humble comparison, one might see shades of Jimmy Stewart’s warmth and likability and Steve McQueen’s dashing looks in Donovan. Yet, he remains unassuming in his approach, embodying the very essence of approachable charisma and genuine concern for others.

In an age where celebrities are often lauded for their on-screen achievements, Donovan’s decade-long commitment to humanitarian work, especially in the realm of children’s welfare, sets a notable example. His story and the success of Team Upstanders stand as a powerful reminder that change often begins with a single step — or in this case, a simple lunch — and grows into something that can positively transform lives.

As we look towards a future where every child feels secure, valued, and heard, figures like Trevor Donovan are essential in guiding us toward this ideal. His efforts, along with those of the RFK Foundation and countless volunteers, remind us of the power of collective action and the enduring impact of compassion.

--

--