We may have lost Robin Williams a decade ago, but the impact he had on the entertainment industry and those he interacted with him remains strong. This is, in part, thanks to the work of his children, who’ve made it their mission to continue his philanthropic work, which he was so passionate about.
Zak Williams saw his father’s kindness firsthand
Speaking with PEOPLE at the 12th Annual Bring Change to Mind Revels & Revelations gala, Robin Williams‘ eldest son, Zak, discussed what it was like growing up with such a kind and caring father.
Speaking about his love for helping others in need, he explained, “When I was a little kid and we’d be walking in San Francisco where I grew up, he would stop, talk to someone on the street – a homeless person – say, ‘Hey boss, what can I do for you?’ And we’d see him get meals, food, money.”
These moments of compassion weren’t once in a while for Williams; they happened all the time, and seeing them as a young boy, Zak said that his father was an inspiration.
“He cared deeply about people in need, and I think for me, he opened my eyes to really what kindness was all about,” he shared.
Robin Williams was committed to helping others
In 2014, Robin Williams took his own life, at the age of 63. He left behind a prolific and celebrated acting career, but it’s his work in philanthropy that his children believe is his true legacy.
“It was deeply important to him to help improve the human condition, and that extends beyond helping people laugh and learn about themselves,” Zak reminisced with PEOPLE, adding, “It also related to how he could actually support organizations materially by helping raise funds and awareness for organizations like the Challenged Athletes Foundation, the [Christopher & Dana Reeve] Foundation and St. Jude’s, among many others.”
This means that, while Williams helped bring joy to others through his comedy, he also made real change in his efforts with organizations, to improve the lives of those who needed help.
How do Robin Williams’ children honor his legacy?
Unsurprisingly, Zak and his siblings, Zelda and Cody, have worked to honor their father’s legacy by carrying on the “extremely important” work that Robin Williams cherished so much.
“We see it as a natural extension of what he would want, which is helping bring healing and helping develop resilience for folks, especially young people. He loved kids,” Zak said. “And as a family, we feel it’s a natural way to honor his legacy.”
Zak himself has made strides in carrying on his father’s philanthropic work, serving as chairman of Glenn Close’s nonprofit Bring Change to Mind. The organization works to end the stigma surrounding mental illness, something that Williams himself struggled with for many years.
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We think the late actor would be proud of what his children have accomplished since his passing.