Hip-hop is centered on the urban struggle and the determination it takes to make something out of a bad situation. Many artists have decided to use their fame to promote a positive message to their communities through their philanthropic initiatives. Here are a list of hip-hop charities that focus their attention on health, education, and social change.
1) The Ludacris Foundation
The Ludacris Foundation was founded in 2001 by multi-platinum Atlanta hip-hop artist Chris “Ludacris” Bridges. The foundation is centered on developing the youth through education, promoting healthy lifestyles and leadership. Each experience is intended to inspire the youth to achieve their dreams. The famous Luda Day Weekend is one of the notable events through the foundation. The community is able to raise funds for the community with benefit concerts and celebrity basketball tournaments.
Photo Cred: @mopete24
2) Snoop Dogg Hoop 4 Water
Snoop Dogg teamed up with former NBA star Morris Peterson to sponsor the Hoop 4 Water charity basketball game in Flint, Michigan. The organizations objective is to continue to raise funds and awareness to the water crisis in Michigan. All proceeds will go to the Morris Peterson Jr. Foundation and used to supply families with bottled water and be able to assist the city in finding a solution to the water crisis.
Photo Cred: Claralionel Foundation
3) Rihanna Global Scholarship Program
Rihanna has recently launcd her global scholarship program that will grant funding to international students enrolling in an U.S. university through her Clara Lionel Foundation. The scholarship will be awarded to students that are natives of Barbados, Cuba, Brazil, Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, and Guyana. The foundation was founded to pay respects to Rihanna’s grandparents Clara and Lionel Braithwaite.
Photo Cred: Killer Mike & El-P
4) Run The Jewels “Meo The Jewels”
The illustrious rap duo comprised of Killer Mike and El-P have come together to raise $65k from their kickstarter campaign “Meow the Jewels”. The concept of the album was meant to be a joke by raising money to remix the “Run the Jewels” album with cat sounds for the music. The proceeds from the campaign have been evenly split to support the families of Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
Photo Cred: Zimbio.com
5) Konfidence Foundation
The Konfidence Foundation was founded in 2006 by multi-platnium artist/producer Akon. This non-profit organization focuses on developing awareness for the conditions in Africa as well as supplying the underprivileged youth the opportunity to learn about modern technology, education, and healthcare. The foundation believes that focusing their efforts on Senegal will build the platform to strengthen other African nations.