An interview right beforeCameron Boyce’stragic death at the age of 20focused on the two causes nearest and dearest to his heart: his extensive charity work and his beloved family.
In his interview, the star credited his family for providing him with a blueprint as to how he could give back, and what he could accomplish in doing so.
“There’s a long line of difference makers in my family. I’m following in the footsteps of some really strong men and women who have showed me what it means to give back; it’s the greatest way to fulfill yourself,” he said.
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“Every time I talk to someone who shares that similar passion, we talk about how there aren’t many feelings more euphoric. Changing someone else’s life positively changes yours for the better as well,” he added.
Boyce was honored in April with the Pioneering Spirit Award at the 9th Annual Thirst Gala. He has raised more than $30,000 for the Thirst Project, which raises awareness about the global water crisis, to help build two wells in Swaziland.
Boyce also spoke of how he hoped his giving back would inspire others to do the same, and offer guidance as to how they can get involved.
Cameron Boyce in Descendants.David Bukach via Getty Images
Boyce, who was African American and Jewish, also spoke to how his family ancestry shaped him as a person, including his grandmother Jo Ann Boyce.
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Jo Ann was a member of the Clinton 12, a group of Tennessee students who were the first to desegregate a state-supported high school in the south in 1956.
“I have plenty of ancestors and family members that I can look to for strength, and more importantly, for a grateful outlook on life,” he said. “Every one of them clawed and scratched for my sister and I to be in the position we’re in today.”
The non-profit shared a tribute to the actor in light of his death, writing, “We are at loss for words and a bit shaken up from the news of the unfortunate and untimely passing of our dear friend,” the statement read. “Cameron was such an amazing light to many and also did so much for Thirst Project. He was always looking to help others and in his #ThirstGala speech, he explained it perfectly. With his time here, he certainly left something bigger than himself and we are SO honored to have been a part of his life and to have been able to change the world together. As we remember him, let’s all do our part to use what we have and leave something bigger than ourselves.”
“The world is now undoubtedly without one of its brightest lights, but his spirit will live on through the kindness and compassion of all who knew and loved him,” a family spokesperson said. “We are utterly heartbroken and ask for privacy during this immensely difficult time as we grieve the loss of our precious son and brother.”
source: people.com
