Former Kate Middleton Chooses Her Charities

She's married into the royal family, and now the former Kate Middleton is moving to take on her new role by choosing the charities she will support.

St. James's Palace said Thursday that the Duchess of Cambridge has accepted honorary positions with charities that deal with a range of issues, including tackling drug addiction and helping young people.

The royal, who married Prince William last year, has become a patron of Action on Addiction and the National Portrait Gallery. She has also become a royal patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices and The Art Room, and a volunteer with the Scout Association.

Supporting charities is considered important for members of the royal family. Royal patronage also raises the profile of the causes they support.