cheadleAt the end of last month, Don Cheadle spent two weeks in Africa, primarily in Uganda and Rwanda. Among other things, the star of Hotel Rwanda visited the hotel itself for the first time and met with some of those who escaped genocide there thanks to manager Paul Rusesabagina, Cheadle's character in the film. The actor also visited displaced persons camps and talked with some of the more than a million Ugandans who have been forced from their homes by civil war.

Powerfully affected by his time in Africa, Cheadle has been propelled out of what he calls his "path of apathy" and is now working to help those in need there. To that end, he's collaborating with the International Crisis Group's John Prendergast on a book that will show individuals how they can help.