Grace Kelly was an American actress who, after starring in several significant films in the early to mid-1950’s, became Princess of Monaco by marrying Prince Rainer III. They had three children: Caroline, Albert, and Stéphanie. She retained her link to America by her dual U.S. and Monégasque citizenship. During her marriage, Princess Grace was unable to continue her acting career. Instead, she performed her daily duties as princess and became involved in philanthropic work. Princess Grace was active in improving the arts institutions of Monaco, forming the Princess Grace Foundation in 1964 to support local artisans. She also founded AMADE Mondiale, a Monaco-based non-profit organization that was eventually recognized by the UN as a non-governmental organization. According to UNESCO’s website, AMADE promotes and protects the “moral and physical integrity” and “spiritual well-being of children throughout the world, without distinction of race, nationality or religion and in a spirit of complete political independence.” Her son, Prince Albert, helped establish the Princess Grace Awards in 1984 to recognize emerging performers in film, theatre, and dance. Her daughter, Princess Caroline, carries the torch for AMADE today. Princess Stéphanie, is president of Theatre Princesse Grace.
In celebration of her memory and legacy a line of Grace de Monaco products have been created. All proceeds will go to support the Princess Grace Awards program.