Miriam Adelson: The Philanthropist Behind the Las Vegas Sands Empire




The name Miriam Adelson may not be immediately recognizable, but her impact on the world of philanthropy and health care is immeasurable. As the wife of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, Miriam has made a name for herself as a generous donor and a passionate advocate for various causes. In this article, we will explore the remarkable life and charitable work of Miriam Adelson.

Early Life and Career

Miriam Ochshorn was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1945. She immigrated to the United States in her early twenties, where she met her future husband, Sheldon Adelson. Together, they built a successful empire in the gaming industry, with Las Vegas Sands becoming one of the largest casino operators in the world.

Philanthropic Legacy

Miriam Adelson's philanthropic journey began in the 1990s when she established the Adelson Family Foundation with her husband. The foundation has since donated millions of dollars to a wide range of causes, including medical research, education, and the arts.

Medical Research

Miriam Adelson has a particular interest in medical research, especially in the field of drug addiction. She has donated generously to various addiction treatment centers and research facilities. Notable among them is the Adelson Medical Research Foundation, which focuses on developing new medications to combat drug abuse.

"I believe that every person deserves a chance to break free from addiction. That's why I'm passionate about supporting medical research that can lead to new and effective treatments," she once said in an interview.

Education and the Arts

Miriam Adelson is also a strong supporter of education and the arts. She has made significant donations to universities, libraries, and cultural institutions both in the United States and Israel.

  • Her passion for education stems from her own experiences as a young immigrant who struggled with the language and culture.
  • Her support for the arts, on the other hand, reflects her appreciation for human creativity and imagination.

Personal Touch

Miriam Adelson's philanthropic work is not merely about giving away money. She takes a personal interest in the causes she supports, often visiting the organizations she funds to interact with the beneficiaries and understand their needs.

"I want to see firsthand the impact of our donations. It's not enough to just write a check; I want to know that the money is being used to make a real difference in people's lives," she says.

Recognition and Awards

Miriam Adelson's philanthropic efforts have earned her numerous awards and accolades. She has been recognized by various organizations for her contributions to medical research, education, and the arts.

Call to Action

Miriam Adelson's life and work serve as an inspiration for all who believe in the power of giving. Her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world challenges us to reflect on our own values and to consider how we can use our resources to help others.

Whether it's through monetary donations, volunteering our time, or simply spreading awareness about important causes, each of us can make a difference in the lives of those around us.

"True philanthropy is not about giving away what you don't need. It's about sharing what you have with those who need it most," Miriam Adelson once said.