As Corinna Tsopei Fields will celebrate her 80th birthday next year, she embarks on a remarkable endeavor that commemorates this milestone and allows her to reconnect with her roots and make a significant philanthropic impact.
In an exclusive interview, we had the privilege to speak with Corinna about her decision to return to her birthplace in Greece to shoot a calendar, with all proceeds going to the SHARE for Children organization, where she serves as president.
Q: Corinna, first and foremost, congratulations on reaching your 80th anniversary next year! It’s a significant milestone. What inspired you to return to Greece as part of your celebration?
Corinna: Thank you so much. Reaching this milestone has made me reflect on my incredible journey and the experiences that have shaped me. Returning to Greece, and Athens in particular, my birthplace, feels meaningful to connect with my heritage and pay tribute to the country that holds a special place in my heart.
Q: That sounds truly special. Can you tell us more about the calendar project and the organization it supports?
Corinna: Certainly! I am thrilled to work with an incredibly talented team for the calendar shoot. Mr. Trifonas Samaras, a renowned Greek Stylist, will lead the art direction. His expertise and creative vision will undoubtedly bring a unique flair to the project. I greatly respect his work and feel honored to collaborate with him. All the proceeds generated from the calendar sales will be donated to the SHARE for Children organization, an incredible cause close to my heart. SHARE for Children focuses on providing support and opportunities to underprivileged children, ensuring they have access to education, healthcare, and a chance for a brighter future.
Q: Will the calendar feature designs from prominent fashion designers?
Corinna: Yes, indeed! I am excited because the calendar will showcase designs from some of the most prominent fashion designers. It’s a beautiful opportunity to capture Greece’s beauty and give these talented designers a platform to showcase their work in the USA. Their contributions will add elegance and sophistication to the calendar, celebrating Greek culture and fashion. While we are still finalizing the details, we have received commitments from several highly esteemed fashion designers. Their names will be announced closer to the release of the calendar. It’s also an exciting collaboration with the company “Beautiful People” and Mr. Haris Sianidis, who organizes the event in partnership with my dearest friend, executive producer Francesco Vitali.
Q: Your commitment to philanthropy is admirable. What motivated you to dedicate your efforts to helping underprivileged children through SHARE for Children?
Corinna: Philanthropy has always been a core value in my life. Each one of us has the power to make a positive impact, no matter how big or small. SHARE for Children resonated with me because it focuses on the most vulnerable members of society—children. Every child deserves a chance to thrive, and by supporting their education, healthcare, and well-being, we can help break the cycle of poverty and empower them to create better lives for themselves.
Q: What brought you to work with this organization?
Corinna: The dream of America brought me to SHARE. Growing up in Greece just after World War II, I developed a deep love for America. It started with the simple act of receiving American cheese and milk at school. Watching American movies every Sunday further fueled my desire to be in America. Every night, as part of our family prayer, I secretly added my plea to God, asking to be brought to America so that I could help the children. When I won the Miss Universe Pageant, my dream came true. Years later, my friends Sandra Moss and Ruth Berle introduced me to SHARE, and I was immediately impressed by the organization’s dedication to helping vulnerable children. Joining SHARE was an opportunity for me to fulfill the promise I made to God and give back.
Q: Your philanthropic work extends beyond this project. Can you tell us more about the initiatives undertaken by SHARE for Children and the impact it has made? How can people support this cause and acquire the calendar?
Corinna: SHARE for Children is dedicated to transforming the lives of underprivileged children. We provide access to quality education, healthcare, and support services, ensuring these children have the tools and opportunities to thrive. Through our initiatives, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education, the healing impact of healthcare, and the importance of a supportive community. With each child we reach, we are sowing the seeds for a brighter future for them and society. The calendar will be available through our organization’s website, https://share4children.org/, and various channels that will be announced soon.
Q: Can you describe how your organization is making a significant social impact?
Corinna: SHARE has made a significant impact over the years. We have raised more than 65 million dollars since our inception, which is substantial for a group of dancing housewives and working women. Our impact extends across Los Angeles, where we have collaborated with organizations like CASA, the Exceptional Children’s Foundation, Stuart House, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and Team Prime Time for decades. Additionally, we continually sponsor new facilities, supporting smaller, innovative organizations that demonstrate excellence. One of our members likened SHARE to a fund or portfolio of local children’s charities, functioning as a moral stock market. While the money is donated, the return on investment manifests as social capital and human happiness. The progress and impact we witness in thousands of struggling, disadvantaged children cannot be precisely measured, but it is undeniably real.
Q: Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem that SHARE is trying to solve?
Corinna: The root of the problem lies in the vulnerability of children born into an unfair world. Some endure abusive home environments, others are born with rare genetic disorders, and some are thrust into chaos. While this reality may not change, there are ways for society and politicians to provide support. I’m not a politician, but I am a mother and grandmother. I know the community, culture, and politicians can help address the root of the problem by strengthening social safety nets, investing in early intervention and prevention programs, and promoting awareness and empathy toward vulnerable children. That includes advocating for robust social welfare systems, implementing policies that protect children’s well-being, providing access to healthcare and education, supporting community centers and counseling services, and fostering inclusivity while combating stigmatization.
Q: What advice would you give to others who aspire to make a difference in the world through philanthropy?
Corinna: My advice would be to follow your passion and find a cause that resonates with you. Philanthropy is not limited to monetary donations; it can also involve volunteering your time, skills, or expertise. Start small, make a personal connection, and take action. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change. Remember that every contribution, no matter how small, can significantly impact someone’s life.
And most importantly, never underestimate the power of empathy and compassion. We can make a difference by genuinely caring for others and understanding their struggles. Each of us can make a difference. By embracing our heritage, celebrating our milestones, and extending a helping hand to those in need, we can create a brighter future for all. The calendar serves as a reminder that beauty, culture, and compassion can coexist and inspire positive change. I urge everyone to explore their passions, find ways to give back and let’s make the world a better place.
Corinna Tsopei Fields, through her unwavering dedication and inspiring journey, exemplifies the power of individuals to make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable children. Her work with SHARE showcases the importance of community support, early intervention, and promoting empathy. With Corinna’s leadership and the collective efforts of society, politicians, and organizations like SHARE, we can strive towards a future where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their dreams.
