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May 27, 2012
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Curves Founders Give Biggest Donation Yet on 'Secret Millionaire' (VIDEO)

by Aimee Deeken, posted Apr 4th 2011 6:30AM

Gary, Diane Heavin on 'Secret Millionaire'The latest episode of 'Secret Millionaire' (Sun., 8PM ET on ABC) featured Curves founders/CEOs Diane and Gary Heavin. The millionaires spent time at three non-profits in Houston's poverty-stricken Third Ward under the guise of making a documentary on volunteerism.

At the end of the week, the couple made donations to all three charities. At the Sean Ashley House -- which helps children and adults with disabilities, with a focus on autism -- Gary said, "You're not just care-givers, you're--"

"Extended family," interjected Diane. Gary added, "That's what these kids need: They need to be loved." To assist with their efforts, the Heavins donated $250,000, the largest gift in 'Secret Millionaire' history.

"I never, never expected this," said one of the directors. "Thank you so much! I'm just in shock!"

Watch the full episode here:

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Koala Baby

I think you need to research you amount for the most money given.. the Heavin's only gave 250,000 where
Todd and Gwen Graves gave 300,000 plus other stuff.

April 05 2011 at 5:43 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Ava

Fit Dude, you are way off base with your remarks about the Curves that are closing. While I do agree, to some extent,that they grew too fast, I know, for a fact that the vast majority of the Curves that have closed are ones owned by people that bought in for a fast buck. They had no complaints in the beginning because, without lifting a finger, they had members streaming into the club. Once it became a REAL job and they actually had to work at maintaining their members, coaching and making sure they were seeing results that is when they went downhill because they did not want to do the work. I have owned a Curves since it began 15 years ago and, I can tell you that it is an awesome company and as a franchisee the fees are the lowest out there.
Gary and Diane are two of the most generous people out there. ABC came to them. They did not seek out the opportunity. Don't judge when you obviously don't know a thing about them. Jealousy is a powerful thing!

April 04 2011 at 4:58 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Fit Dude

They made their money by over-saturating the country and charging exorbitant franchise fees. Thousands of Curves clubs have closed in the last few years and the owners lost everything. Why not give some money to these people who lost their homes because of Curves? To see what Curves owners have to say about their generous leader, check out http://www.unhappyfranchisee.com/curves-robert-lays-story/

April 04 2011 at 10:09 AM Report abuse -2 rate up rate down Reply
timandtomsmom

Did Gary and Diane really have in mind for that young man to purchase a "pimped" car with the $10,000 they gave him?! I hardly think so!! How disappointing!!

April 04 2011 at 9:43 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
jennicain5

Self absorbed. Self promoting. These people are not doing it from the goodness of their hearts so much from their greedy need to advertise to make MORE. I am not impressed. These people have so much money and this show makes me sick...really. Give it without looking for something in return. Quietly and not looking for applause.

April 04 2011 at 9:28 AM Report abuse -1 rate up rate down Reply
1 reply to jennicain5's comment
gnbnt

I think you are a little off base here. The Heavins give a lot to a lot of things. This wasn't just a one time thing for them, they share their good fortune with countless causes and organizations all the time. And I think one of the points of this show is to spotlight some really worthy charities and the work they are doing. It may encourage other people to help. And yes, you are supposed to give without expecting something in return, but maybe showing an example of giving is a good thing.

April 04 2011 at 9:44 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
1 reply to gnbnt's comment
Blondie

You are absolutely right GN. I believe that second to the people who have garnered their fortune through hard work, the show is meant to bring to the forefront the fact that there are many places that need support as they selflessly work to make our world a better place for those less fortunate. Whether they publicize their giving, or keep it to themselves, it is being done. Whatever way to get the job done. I for one didn't come away with the notion that I needed to join Curves now, but rather, I need to put my money where my mouth is. There are places in every community that help. So if you're sickened by the show, then don't watch. Go out and do something for someone else.

April 04 2011 at 9:58 AM Report abuse rate up rate down

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