Ian Somerhalder Is Now A U.N. Ambassador: Why He And Nina Dobrev Are The Perfect Philanthropic Couple [Photos]

Ian Somerhalder has been a smoldering TV sensation for quite a few years now. After heating it up with co-star (and real life love) Nina Dobrev for three seasons of The Vampire Diaries, Somerhalder has stepped up his charity work. Since the sultry CW series is on hiatus, the blue-eyed hottie has taken on a exciting new role! He has been named a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme. Somerhalder has devoted himself to eco-friendly causes for quite some time. He currently runs his own organization, the IS Foundation (or Ian Sommerhalder Foundation). The company is primarily concerned with the preservation of wildlife and the environment throughout the world. IS also caters to the needs of the youth and provides the public with information on recycling and eco-conscious travel.

Dobrev has also proved to be a model celebrity do-gooder. She participated in the Children's Vow of Silence Campaign by agreeing to remain silent for an entire day. The program works to benefit children living in poverty and Dobrev garnered support for the cause by Tweeting: Stand with me and free the children in silence to support those without a voice

Project Pink has also received help from Dobrev. The charity works to offer support for those who have been affected by breast cancer and generate funds for research.

As a couple, the two have participated in a number of good causes together. Last year Dobrev showed her support for The Water Project my appearing on Somerhalder's arm during the charity's Ripple Effect Dinner. Both stars Tweeted that they were in awe of the event and asked their fans to support the organization as well. This year they made an appearance at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party and raised $80,000.

Sommerhalder and Dobrev have been quietly dating for about two years now and have already done a great deal for humanity as a team. Brangelina who?