November 3, 2011 | Celeb Watch

Lady Gaga creates foundation to fight bullying

Yesterday Lady Gaga announced the creation of the Born This Way Foundation, which will focus on youth empowerment and "issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti-bullying, mentoring and career development." A vocal supporter of gays and lesbians, and someone who has spoken out against bullying, this is a logical step for the 25-year-old singer.

She will partner with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, The California Endowment and the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University to get the foundation started.

"Together we hope to establish a standard of Bravery and Kindness, as well as a community worldwide that protects and nurtures others in the face of bullying and abandonment," she said.

And Gaga has reach. She is the most popular person on Twitter with over 15 million followers, and boasts 44 million Facebook fans.

"Lady Gaga will help empower and give voice to young people who find themselves overwhelmed, undersupported, disconnected, isolated, bullied, or struggling," said Dr. Bob Ross, the CEO and president of The California Endowment. "This brand of leadership is sorely needed in today's world."

The foundation will officially launch in 2012.

Gaga Launches Anti-bullying Born This Way Foundation [The Advocate]