A Conversation with Mitzi Perdue: Service, Storytelling, and Using Innovation to Heal a World in Crisis

In this inspiring and deeply moving episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Mitzi Perdue, author, humanitarian, philanthropist, and war correspondent, to discuss a lifetime devoted to service. Drawing on lessons from her parents, the co-founder of the Sheraton Hotel chain and a family deeply committed to philanthropy, Mitzi shares how generosity became a guiding principle from an early age. Today, at 84 years old, she continues to live those values through her humanitarian work in Ukraine, her reporting on war crimes, and her efforts to bring mental health support to millions of people affected by conflict.Throughout the conversation, Mitzi reflects on the lessons that shaped her understanding of happiness, purpose, and giving. She recalls her father's belief that "the greatest pleasure that all my money has ever given me is in giving it away" and her mother's reminder that when you have the opportunity to do something good for someone else, act on it quickly. These values became the foundation of a life focused not on accumulating wealth, but on creating impact. Mitzi explains that in both the Henderson and Perdue families, people were valued not for what they owned, but for how much they served others.A major focus of the discussion centers on Mitzi's work in Ukraine. As a war correspondent with hundreds of published articles, she shares firsthand accounts of the suffering endured by civilians during the ongoing conflict. Yet rather than focusing solely on tragedy, Mitzi highlights the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the importance of telling stories that might otherwise go unheard. She believes storytelling is a form of service, one that preserves truth, honors survivors, and helps the world understand the human cost of war.The conversation also explores an innovative initiative that combines philanthropy and technology. Recognizing the severe shortage of mental health professionals in Ukraine, Mitzi is helping support the development of an artificial intelligence-based counseling platform designed specifically for Ukrainian citizens experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Available 24 hours a day through smartphones, the tool is intended to provide immediate support when traditional resources are unavailable. What began as a solution for Ukraine may eventually become a model for serving vulnerable populations around the world.Ultimately, Mitzi's message is both timeless and urgent: a meaningful life is measured not by what we accumulate, but by how we help others. Whether through philanthropy, storytelling, innovation, or simple acts of kindness, every person has the ability to reduce suffering and create hope. Her life serves as a powerful reminder that generosity is not simply an action, it is a way of seeing the world and our responsibility to one another.Key Takeaways:True happiness often comes from giving rather than receiving.Storytelling can be a powerful form of service and advocacy.Small acts of generosity can create meaningful impact.Innovation and technology can help address large-scale humanitarian challenges.Mental health support is a critical but often overlooked need in conflict zones.Legacy is built through service, compassion, and the lives we touch.Connections:Connect with Mitzi Perdue Connect With Rick PeckFor more ideas, stories, and practical guidance to help you give smarter and raise more, subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.