Ian Somerhalder: Vampire Diaries Actor Explains Passion on Saving Creatures is in His Blood, Shares Throwback Family Photo on Instagram

Actor Ian Somerhalder headed to Washington D.C. to give his Congressional Testimony where he represents his Ian Somerhalder Foundation (ISF) and advocates for the animal rights issue. "The Vampire Diaries" star recently explained why saving the lives of the creatures is important to him.

While waiting for his congress appearance, Ian Somerhalder informed his Twitter followers about his excitement to serve as a voice in protecting the endangered creatures particularly on the poaching issue of elephants in Africa. "SO cool-about to testify in DC as a megaphone for our united fight to protect our endangered species. Tune in PLS! https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=729668327091729&id=129709740420927 ...," the actor posted on his Twitter account @iansomerhalder.

Ian Somerhalder, 35, revealed in the 2012 Humane Society interview that being surrounded with the genuine energy of the animals and coming from the Louisiana state, particularly the Gulf Coast area, made him understand the wild animals and the environment as well. "Because you realize how fragile that balance is," the actor explained.

The Hollywood Life report noted that Ian Somerhalder appears to be happy using his celebrity status in raising awareness to environmental causes and animal rights. However, the heartthrob actor still pointed out that a person does not really have to be famous in making a difference.

"It may seem hard to find the time and energy to make considerable change, but some of the most monumental change we can make is within our daily consumer habits. No matter how hectic a day can be, there is always opportunity within our busy schedules to make thoughtful decisions that reflect the changes we want to see in the world," Somerhalder stated.

With the mention of growing up in his hometown Louisiana, Ian's family appears to be the strong force behind his advocacy on environmental and animal issues. The TVD star proudly shared a throwback Instagram image of the Somerhalder family.

"Somerhalder family photo-my big sister just sent this to me...The little dude in the striped shirt-yup that's yours truly. Wow how time flies, 28 years ago. Love love love these people, they helped shape me, grateful to them," Ian typed in as a caption to the adorable family photo. Click HERE to see a 7-year-old Ian Somerhalder with his parents, older brother and sister in the shared throwback Instagram image.

SO cool-about to testify in DC as a megaphone for our united fight to protect our endangered species.Tune in PLS! https://t.co/SlNWaE8oHS
— ian somerhalder (@iansomerhalder) June 24, 2014