Following up on a $3 million grant he made to protect ocean habitats earlier this year, Leonardo DiCaprio has flexed the financial power of his environmental foundation yet again with a $1 million gift to save elephants. The money, announced at a benefit honoring Save the Elephants Founder and CEO Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton, will directly fund initiatives on the ground to curb poaching threats throughout the world.

“Elephant poaching is a brutal crisis, with more than 30,000 elephants killed last year alone,” DiCaprio said in a statement. “The decimation of these animals is something we have the power to stop, and the Elephant Crisis Fund is a crucial part of the solution. I am honored to support them and recognize Dr. Douglas-Hamilton for his lifelong commitment to protecting this species.”

Despite not attending the gala, DiCaprio’s massive gift proved to be an inspiring force — rallying those at the Malibu event to match the donation by raising another $1 million.

“The only future for elephants is for governments, organizations and individuals to join together in their support. What we have seen in Los Angeles has given us greater hope than ever, as a generous donation by the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation was matched by this astonishing community,” said Douglas-Hamilton.

Source:MNN