MacKenzie Scott made generous donations of $640 million to over 360 non-profit organizations, according to AP News. The billionaire philanthropist and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' ex-wife, exceeded her initial plan, giving more than double what she had pledged in response to an "open call" for applications. 

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How MacKenzie Scott's Donations Went Up

MacKenzie Scott gave her donations through her organization, Yield Giving.

Now, the first round of donations has been expanded due to the exceptional work of the applicant non-profits, chosen through a rigorous evaluation process. 

The awardees, ranging from those aiding individuals returning from incarceration to theater companies engaging young people in Los Angeles, were carefully selected to advance the voices and opportunities of those with limited means. 

In a brief message on her website, MacKenzie Scott expressed gratitude to Lever for Change, the organization overseeing the "open call," and the evaluators for supporting those striving to improve access to essential resources in their communities. 

In return, Lever for Change CEO Cecilia Conrad acknowledges the impact of Scott's Open Call. "In a world teeming with potential and talent, the Open Call has given us an opportunity to identify, uplift, and empower transformative organizations that often remain unseen."

Over 6,000 non-profits applied for $1 million in grants, expanding the recipient pool and the award amount, according to Lever for Change, which specializes in managing philanthropic awards. 

Mackenzie Scott's donations, totaling $16.5 billion since her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, have been documented through blog posts. She aims to share information about her giving to assist others interested in philanthropy.

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