Humanitarian of the Week: Bette Midler

“The Divine Miss M.” was named for the legendary Bette Davis, but being as strong an individual as he namesake, chose to pronounce her name was one syllable instead of two. Since early childhood, Midler was outgoing and communicative with a penchant for showmanship and not shy of the spotlight.


In the 1960’s, she left her birthplace of Hawaii for New York City and began what would become a hugely successful career. Off-Broadway productions led to a major record deal, a Tony Award and monumental success on the stages of Broadway. Film offers became plentiful, and Midler reached worldwide audiences with portrayals of women who were strong, yet vulnerable, comical and tragic.

Reaching people has always been at the forefront of Miss Midler’s mind. From her art to her personal life, Midler looks to improve the world at every turn. Loyal to New York City, her second home, Midler began an initiative to revitalize neighborhood parks in neglected or impoverished areas of New York City. The New York Restoration Project, founded in 1995, has worked to improve various parks throughout the city so that people will have a safe place near their homes for recreation and sport. As part of this initiative, Midler’s organization also provides environmental education in low-income schools and neighborhoods.

For the many years of laughter and entertainment she’s brought to us and the many years of health and well-being that she’s brought to the residents of New York, Bette Midler is our “Humanitarian of the Week.”