Dolly Parton was awarded the prestigious Courage and Civility award from Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, accompanied by a $100 million prize that Dolly said will be used to “help people.”  Parton is the latest recipient in 2022, with past winners including Van Jones and Chef Jose Andres. Wrote Bezos on Twitter, “We’ve just announced a new Courage and Civility award recipient—@DollyParton, who leads with heart, and will put this $100 million award to great use helping so many people. She joins prior awardees, @VanJones68 and @Chefjoseandres. Congrats, Dolly!”

Introducing Parton, host Lauren Sanchez said: “The award recognizes leaders who aim high, find solutions, and who always do it with civility. Each awardee receives $100 million to direct to the charities that they see fit.” Added Bezos: “We have in this very room, the next recipient of the Courage and Civility Award. The woman you’re about to meet embodies these ideals so thoroughly. She gives with her heart. What she’s done for kids literacy and so many other things is just incredible. It is my great honor to welcome our 2022 Courage and Civility Award recipient onto the stage. Dolly Parton.”

Parton said on Twitter: “I try to put my money where my heart is. I will do my best to do good things with this money. Thank you @Jeff Bezos #LaurenSanchez.”  

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