22. Veronica Atkins
Widow of Dr. Robert Atkins
2004-08 Giving* $529 million
Atkins has continued her late husband's legacy of giving, focusing on eradicating obesity and diabetes by teaching children good nutrition for long-term health. She has redoubled her philanthropic efforts to witness results in her lifetime, giving away almost her entire fortune.
For more, visit the Atkins Foundation topic on Business Exchange.
*Based on public records and interviews with donors
Data: BusinessWeek, The Chronicle of Philanthropy and the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University
