OUR MISSION
The Ian Somerhalder Foundation works to empower, educate and collaborate with people and projects to positively impact the planet and its creatures.
ISF delivers unique programs and services and provides public outreach, education, and grants in support of Creatures, Environment, Youth, and Grassroots initiatives.
Ian Somerhalder is an actor, environmentalist and humanitarian known professionally for his work in the WB hit TV Series, “The Vampire Diaries,” the ABC critically acclaimed drama, “Lost,” and the ground-breaking climate change documentary series, “Years of Living Dangerously.” Ian is the Founder and President of ISF and he is designated as a United Nations Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador.
Ian was born and raised in Louisiana. He grew up spending most of his time outdoors where he learned to appreciate the great beauty of nature and to respect the valuable lessons that it can teach us. After witnessing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the horrible aftermath of the Gulf Oil Spill just five years later, Ian was overcome by a feeling of helplessness. He was inspired to take action and so, The Ian Somerhalder Foundation was established in November 2010.
Nikki Reed is known for her role as Rosalie Hale in the hit “Twilight Saga.” She won critical acclaim for her first feature, “Thirteen,” which she starred in and co-wrote. Nikki most recently appeared in Fox’s popular TV Series, “Sleepy Hollow,” playing the role of historical figure Betsy Ross. She also stars in the second season of “Years of Living Dangerously.” Nikki has spent many years volunteering with and supporting animal rescue programs, wildlife and environmental groups and mentoring programs focused on the education of disadvantaged youth. Nikki is the Vice President of ISF.
Ian & Nikki’s shared passion for animals, youth and the environment inspire them to make the world a better place for this and future generations. Their combined efforts are the driving force behind the Ian Somerhalder Foundation.
The purpose of the Foundation is to advance science; promote the conservation of natural resources, such as forests, lands, and wildlife, for the benefit of the entire community; provide relief to the poor, distressed, and underprivileged; and support other organizations conducting activities under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Our environment functions as an interdependent system. Plants, animals and humans depend upon one another for survival and each person plays a unique role in the future of all life on this planet. The problems we face require a cohesive approach that does not sacrifice one component over another.
ISF empowers human action through programs and collaborations that promote education, innovation and build skills in empathy and effective leadership. ISF engages and supports youth – one of our most powerful, yet often disregarded, groups. Through programs, partnerships, grants, media initiatives and campaigns, ISF provides support for organizational and grassroots efforts that protect and restore our planet.