Generous Douglas Rewards Kids At Namesake School

6 months ago 12th May 03:35

Generous movie legend Kirk Douglas hands every kid who graduates from theU.S. high school he sponsors a cheque for $500 (Gbp333).

Douglas' support for the California school, which offers troubled kids a second chance, prompted education bosses to name it after him.

And the Spartacus star makes a point of meeting and congratulating everstudent who passes their senior year at the Kirk Douglas Continuation School.

In a posting on his MySpace blog, the 92-year-old writes, "A few weeks ago, I made a visit to the Kirk Douglas High School. I am proud that they asked to name their school after me.

I am proud of the students of Kirk Douglas High School

"One of my pet projects is to try to inspire young people to at least have a high school education. Then, I try to encourage them to go to college. As a small inducement, I give every graduate a $500.00 check.

"When I spoke to the students I was surprised that they each gave me their personal pledge of what they wanted to do in life to improve our world from volunteering in hospitals and local schools, to supporting our troops by sending letters and care packages. One student has agreed to help the elderly by volunteering at a convalescent center (I wonder if I inspired him). I am proud of the students of Kirk Douglas High School".