Black Actresses Who Founded Their Own Charities And Funds

Black actresses have long used their platforms to drive social change, extending their influence far beyond the screen to uplift communities and advocate for critical causes. From addressing mental health destigmatization to providing scholarships and disaster relief, these women have established organizations that make tangible differences in people’s lives. Their philanthropic endeavors often stem from personal experiences, fueling a deep commitment to creating equity and opportunity for underserved populations. This list highlights the inspiring work of 45 Black actresses who have founded their own charities, funds, and non-profit initiatives.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey established The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation to support the educational development of gifted girls in South Africa. Her philanthropic efforts extend to numerous causes through her charitable organization known as The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation. She focuses on providing education and wellness resources to underserved communities around the globe. This dedication to giving back has cemented her status as one of the most generous figures in the entertainment industry.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis co-founded the Davis-Tennon Foundation with her husband to address essential needs within her hometown of Central Falls, Rhode Island. The foundation focuses on combating hunger, homelessness, and domestic violence while promoting educational equity. Her production company, JuVee Productions, also operates with a mission to amplify underrepresented voices in media. Davis utilizes her influence to create systemic change and support marginalized communities through these initiatives.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in honor of her father, who struggled with mental health challenges. The organization works to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental illness in the African American community. It provides scholarships to students majoring in mental health fields and offers free therapy services to those in need. Henson has become a leading advocate for mental wellness, ensuring that culturally competent care is accessible to all.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete co-founded the HollyRod Foundation to provide compassionate care to those living with autism and Parkinson’s disease. The organization was inspired by her father’s battle with Parkinson’s and her son’s autism diagnosis. It offers resources, technology, and job training to help individuals lead independent and productive lives. Peete’s work has significantly raised awareness and support for families navigating these complex health conditions.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph established The DIVA Foundation as a memorial to the many friends she lost to HIV/AIDS during the height of the epidemic. The non-profit organization focuses on raising health awareness and fighting the stigma associated with the virus. Through her annual ‘DIVAS Simply Singing!’ benefit concert, she has raised millions of dollars for HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Ralph continues to be a vocal advocate for health equity and social justice.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold co-founded the We Win Foundation to support individuals suffering from lupus and other autoimmune diseases. The organization provides holistic health programs, counseling, and financial grants for alternative treatments. Motivated by her sister’s diagnosis, Arnold uses her platform to educate the public about the “cruel mystery” of lupus. The foundation aims to restore hope and comfort to patients and their caregivers.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan launched the Sanaa Lathan Foundation to empower young women aging out of the foster care system. The organization focuses on helping these women transition into adulthood by providing access to higher education and leadership training. Lathan’s initiative seeks to improve self-esteem and offer the necessary tools for independence. Her commitment ensures that vulnerable youth have the support system needed to thrive.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé founded the BeyGOOD Foundation to support people and programs around the world through economic equity and education. The public charity provides disaster relief, clean water initiatives, and scholarships to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Recently, the foundation has focused on supporting small Black-owned businesses affected by economic downturns. Beyoncé’s philanthropic arm continues to be a powerful force for global good.

Rihanna

Rihanna established the Clara Lionel Foundation in honor of her grandparents to fund education and emergency response programs globally. The organization fights for climate justice and invests in Caribbean resilience against natural disasters. It also supports advocacy to improve the quality of life for young people in underserved areas. Rihanna’s work has been instrumental in providing rapid relief and long-term development aid.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah founded the Lancelot H. Owens Scholarship Foundation in memory of her late brother. The foundation provides college scholarships to students who demonstrate academic potential but lack financial means. It focuses on empowering youth from low-income backgrounds to pursue higher education. Latifah’s dedication to her brother’s legacy has helped numerous students achieve their academic dreams.

Chaka Khan

Chaka Khan founded the Chaka Khan Foundation to educate, inspire, and empower women and children at risk. The organization initially focused on autism awareness and support, inspired by her nephew’s diagnosis. It has since expanded to address addiction recovery and provide educational programs for inner-city youth. Khan’s philanthropy reflects her deep commitment to healing families and communities.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira co-founded Almasi Arts to professionalize the dramatic arts industry in Zimbabwe. The organization facilitates collaboration between African artists and American theater professionals to foster talent and create opportunities. It provides education and training to ensure that African stories are told with excellence and authenticity. Gurira’s initiative bridges the gap between the African continent and the global entertainment stage.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard co-founded Artists for a New South Africa to advance democracy and equality in the nation. The non-profit has raised millions to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic and support orphaned children in South Africa. It also works to strengthen civil rights and healthcare infrastructure in the region. Woodard’s long-standing activism demonstrates her dedication to human rights and international solidarity.

Keshia Knight Pulliam

Keshia Knight Pulliam established the Kamp Kizzy Foundation to mentor and empower girls between the ages of 11 and 16. The foundation runs a free summer camp that focuses on self-esteem, cultural diversity, and leadership skills. Pulliam also co-founded The Fearless Fund, a venture capital fund that invests in women of color entrepreneurs. Her work addresses both the personal development and economic empowerment of Black women and girls.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi founded Eighteen x 18, now known as WeVoteNext, to encourage civic engagement among young people. The platform educates first-time voters and provides resources to help them understand the political process. Shahidi uses her influence to amplify youth voices and advocate for social justice issues. Her organization has become a vital hub for mobilizing Generation Z to participate in democracy.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson co-founded the Julian D. King Gift Foundation in honor of her late nephew to provide stability and positive experiences for children. The foundation organizes annual events such as school supply drives and holiday toy giveaways for families in Chicago. It aims to foster a constructive environment for youth to grow into productive adults. Hudson’s charity turns a personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for her community.

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys co-founded Keep a Child Alive to provide life-saving treatment and support to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS. The organization focuses on communities in Africa and India, offering comprehensive care that includes nutrition and counseling. Keys has been a tireless advocate for ending the AIDS epidemic and ensuring access to medicine. Her “Black Ball” fundraising galas have generated significant resources for the cause.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith co-founded the Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation to support arts education and inner-city family welfare. The foundation funds a wide range of initiatives, from screenwriting labs to environmental sustainability projects. It focuses on creating careers in the entertainment industry for underrepresented groups. Pinkett Smith’s philanthropic vision emphasizes empowerment through creativity and opportunity.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson co-founded Voto Latino to empower young Latino voters and encourage civic participation. The organization uses media and technology to register voters and advocate for inclusive policies. Dawson has been a driving force in mobilizing the Latinx community to engage in the democratic process. Her activism bridges the gap between pop culture and political empowerment.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige founded the Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now (FFAWN) to inspire women to reach their full potential. The organization provides scholarships, grants, and career counseling to help women gain financial independence. It focuses on building self-esteem and offering educational opportunities to those in need. Blige’s charity reflects her own journey of resilience and empowerment.

Jill Scott

Jill Scott established the Blues Babe Foundation to support college-bound students from underserved communities in Philadelphia and Camden. The foundation provides financial assistance, mentorship, and arts programming to help youth succeed academically. It aims to remove barriers to education and foster a love for the creative arts. Scott’s initiative ensures that the next generation has the resources to pursue their dreams.

Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu founded Beautiful Love Incorporated Non Profit Development (B.L.I.N.D.) to provide community-based programs for inner-city youth. The organization focuses on exposure to the arts, including music, dance, and visual arts, as a means of personal development. It also revitalizes community theaters to serve as cultural hubs. Badu’s work emphasizes the transformative power of creativity in shaping young lives.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish founded the She Ready Foundation to support foster youth and provide them with opportunities for success. The foundation offers resources such as suitcases, internships, and mentorship programs to children in the foster care system. Haddish draws from her own experience in foster care to advocate for dignity and stability for these youths. Her initiative aims to ensure that every child feels valued and supported.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker co-founded the Sophie’s Voice Foundation to raise awareness about spina bifida and support families affected by the condition. The organization was inspired by her daughter’s diagnosis and works to improve the quality of life for children with neural tube defects. It funds prevention programs and provides resources for medical care and research. Parker’s advocacy highlights the importance of prenatal health and family support.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good co-founded The Greater Good Foundation with her sister to offer mentorship and development programs for young women. The organization focuses on building self-esteem, career readiness, and educational achievement. It provides a safe space for girls to discuss challenges and receive guidance from positive role models. Good’s initiative seeks to empower the next generation of female leaders.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe founded Fem the Future to advance opportunities for women and girls in music, arts, and education. The non-profit focuses on mentorship and creating pathways for women of color to enter creative industries. Monáe uses the platform to advocate for gender equity and representation in media. Her work aims to build a future where women’s voices are amplified and valued.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen founded the Debbie Allen Dance Academy to provide comprehensive dance training to youth in Los Angeles regardless of their financial status. The non-profit arts academy offers a rigorous curriculum that builds self-discipline and confidence. Allen personally teaches and mentors students, many of whom have gone on to professional careers. Her institution serves as a cultural beacon for arts education in the Black community.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer co-founded the ‘Saving Our Cinderellas’ program to combat bullying and build self-esteem among girls of color. The initiative uses the arts, including theater and music, to empower participants and address issues like colorism. Palmer draws on her history as the first Black Cinderella on Broadway to inspire young girls to dream big. The program provides mentorship and access to cultural experiences.

Monique Coleman

Monique Coleman founded the GimmeMo’ Foundation to improve the lives of youth globally through media and peer education. The organization addresses critical issues such as poverty, body image, and mental health. Coleman, a former UN Youth Champion, uses her platform to amplify the voices of young people. Her foundation invests in programs that foster resilience and social awareness.

Kenya Moore

Kenya Moore established the Kenya Moore Foundation to award scholarships to underprivileged girls from her high school alma mater in Detroit. The foundation supports educational advancement and provides mentorship to help students navigate their academic journeys. Moore’s initiative addresses the financial barriers that often prevent talented students from attending college. She remains committed to giving back to the community that raised her.

NeNe Leakes

NeNe Leakes founded the Twisted Hearts Foundation to bring awareness to domestic violence and support survivors. The organization provides resources and advocacy to help women escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives. Leakes draws from her personal experiences to shed light on the impact of abuse. Her foundation strives to create a safe and supportive environment for women in crisis.

Karyn Parsons

Karyn Parsons founded Sweet Blackberry to bring little-known stories of African American achievement to children. The non-profit produces animated films and educational materials that highlight Black history heroes. Parsons aims to instill pride and resilience in children by teaching them about overcoming adversity. Her organization ensures that these important cultural narratives are preserved and shared.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross founded TransTech Social Enterprises to provide education, support, and jobs for trans and gender-nonconforming people. The non-profit focuses on economic empowerment through technology training and remote work opportunities. Ross established the organization to address the high rates of unemployment and discrimination facing the trans community. Her work creates vital pathways to financial independence and professional growth.

Ciara

Ciara co-founded the Why Not You Foundation with her husband to fight poverty and empower youth through education and mentorship. The foundation supports programs that improve access to college and career opportunities. It also funds initiatives aimed at health equity and food security. Ciara’s philanthropy encourages young people to believe in their ability to change the world.

Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion launched the Pete and Thomas Foundation to support women, children, and senior citizens in underserved communities. The foundation focuses on education, housing, and health and wellness. It honors the memory of her parents by providing scholarships and resources for mental health. Her initiative aims to create meaningful change and support systems for vulnerable populations.

Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle founded the Patti LaBelle Medical Research Foundation to support research and awareness for specific diseases, including cancer and diabetes. The organization funds medical studies and advocates for better healthcare access for minorities. LaBelle acts as a passionate spokesperson for early detection and healthy living. Her foundation works to bridge the gap in health disparities.

Sheila E.

Sheila E. co-founded the Elevate Hope Foundation to provide music and arts therapy to abused and abandoned children. The organization funds programs in foster care facilities and shelters to help youth process trauma through creativity. It emphasizes the healing power of music in restoring emotional well-being. Her work offers a lifeline to children who have experienced significant hardship.

MC Lyte

MC Lyte founded the Hip Hop Sisters Foundation to promote positive images of women of color and provide educational opportunities. The foundation offers college scholarships to young men and women and supports financial literacy programs. It also honors female pioneers in the hip-hop industry. Lyte’s organization fosters a community of empowerment and academic excellence.

Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland co-founded the Survivor Foundation to provide transitional housing for victims of Hurricane Katrina and other disasters. The organization has expanded to support community outreach and health initiatives. Rowland actively participates in building homes and fundraising for families in crisis. Her efforts demonstrate a long-term commitment to disaster relief and community rebuilding.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid launched the Bamazing initiative to empower young girls through positive self-declaration and self-love. The platform provides mentorship and encouragement to help girls overcome insecurities and pursue their dreams. Reid uses her influence to foster a community of support and resilience. Her initiative reminds young women that they are capable of achieving anything.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin founded the Marsai’s Way Foundation to create positive change and opportunities for youth in the entertainment industry and beyond. The foundation focuses on amplifying young voices and supporting mental health initiatives for teenagers. It also organizes community events to distribute resources to families in need. Martin’s work encourages her peers to become active participants in shaping their futures.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington launched the KW Foundation to support grassroots organizations fighting for civil rights and social justice. Through her Vision Into Power Cohort, she funds groups that focus on voting rights and community organizing. Washington leverages her platform to advocate for systemic change and democratic participation. Her foundation empowers local leaders to make a difference in their communities.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry founded the Respin female longevity fund to support health and wellness research focused on menopause and midlife women. Her platform, Respin, started as a wellness community and evolved to address the lack of resources for women’s health. The fund invests in science and products that improve the quality of life for women as they age. Berry’s advocacy seeks to destigmatize menopause and empower women to take control of their health.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder co-founded the Musée Boribana in Senegal to preserve and exhibit contemporary art from the African diaspora. The museum was the first of its kind in Dakar dedicated to contemporary artists from around the world. Pounder donated her extensive collection to the museum to ensure public access to cultural heritage. Her initiative promotes cross-cultural understanding and celebrates African artistic expression.

Share your thoughts on which of these philanthropic initiatives inspires you the most in the comments.