Oprah Winfrey announced Oprah's Angel Network on September 18, 1997, to inspire people to use their lives and to reap the truest rewards that come from giving to others. "I want you to open your hearts and see the world in a different way," said Oprah. "I promise this will change your life for the better."

When Oprah asked viewers to save their spare change and send it to Oprah's Angel Network, that small change made a big difference. Oprah's Angel Network collected over $3.5 million to fund college scholarships for students in need!

Millions of viewers, several celebrities and sponsors joined in the effort. To date, Oprah's Angel Network has raised 5.1 million dollars from viewer donations and an additional 7 million from sponsors and celebrity contributions. Oprah's Angel Network granted scholarships to 150 young people, funded over 200 homes with Habitat for Humanity, and built 34 schools in 10 countries with Kids Can Free the Children.

About the Use Your Life Award

"I would encourage you to look inside yourself, to see what you have to offer...and use that to give back to the world." — Oprah

Oprah's Angel Network established the "Use Your Life Award" in April 2000, and since then has awarded it to individuals who through their charitable organizations are making a difference in the lives of others.

Funded by donations from actor Paul Newman, founder of "Newman's Own"; Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.com; and from donations by The Oprah Winfrey Show viewers, the "Use Your Life Award" helps recipients to expand their programs and to continue helping those in need.

"We want you to really begin to open up your eyes, notice people around you, and look for ways to help those in need." says Oprah.