Black Actresses Known for Major Philanthropy

Black actresses in Hollywood often utilize their platforms to champion social causes and drive meaningful change through philanthropy. These women have established foundations and partnered with global organizations to address issues ranging from education and health to social justice and the arts. Their contributions extend far beyond their on-screen performances as they invest their time and resources into uplifting underserved communities. The following list highlights forty-five influential actresses who have made significant strides in the world of philanthropy.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey has set the gold standard for celebrity giving through her substantial donations and the creation of her own charitable foundations. She founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa to provide world-class educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Her work with the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation has distributed hundreds of millions of dollars to organizations worldwide. She consistently utilizes her massive media platform to advocate for literacy and disaster relief efforts across the globe.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a passionate advocate for ending childhood hunger in the United States. She partnered with the Hunger Is campaign to raise awareness and funds for children who do not have regular access to nutritious food. Her philanthropic efforts also extend to her hometown of Central Falls in Rhode Island where she supports local health clinics. Davis uses her status to speak out on systemic poverty and the need for educational reform in underserved areas.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry has dedicated decades of support to the Jenesse Center which is a domestic violence intervention program in Los Angeles. She actively participates in fundraising events and works directly with families seeking refuge and rehabilitation. Her advocacy helps provide vocational training and mental health services to victims of abuse. Berry remains committed to breaking the cycle of violence through her hands-on involvement with the organization.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is a vocal activist who works closely with the Allstate Foundation Purple Purse to end financial abuse against women. She designs handbags to raise funds and awareness for economic empowerment programs that help survivors gain independence. Her political activism also includes working with organizations dedicated to voting rights and civic engagement. Washington consistently leverages her celebrity to shine a light on issues affecting marginalized women.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is a fierce advocate for survivors of sexual assault and works to support women’s healthcare initiatives. She has donated significantly to breast cancer research and organizations that provide support for marginalized women battling the disease. Union frequently uses her social media platforms to amplify the voices of those seeking justice and equality. Her philanthropy often focuses on the intersection of racial justice and gender equality.

Regina King

Regina King focuses her charitable efforts on education and youth empowerment through the I Have a Dream Foundation. She works to ensure that children from low-income communities have the resources needed to pursue higher education. Her advocacy includes mentoring young artists and supporting programs that keep arts education in public schools. King believes that access to education is a fundamental right that can transform entire communities.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o is a global ambassador for WildAid where she campaigns for the preservation of elephants and the elimination of the ivory trade. She also supports organizations focused on mother and child health in her native Kenya. Her work involves bringing attention to the importance of wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. Nyong’o uses her international recognition to foster a connection between environmental protection and community welfare.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson founded the Julian D. King Gift Foundation in honor of her late nephew to provide stability and positive experiences for children. The foundation hosts annual events that supply thousands of students with school supplies and holiday gifts. Her organization aims to encourage children to perform well in school by rewarding their academic achievements. Hudson remains deeply connected to her Chicago roots through her consistent community outreach.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is an active supporter of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and serves as a spokesperson for their arts programs. She works with UNICEF to advocate for the health and education of children in developing nations. Her philanthropy includes supporting initiatives that combat heart disease and diabetes within the African American community. Bassett dedicates her time to mentoring young actors and promoting cultural preservation.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard co-founded Artists for a New South Africa to combat HIV/AIDS and advance democracy and equality in the region. Her organization has raised millions to support South African children orphaned by the AIDS pandemic. She travels frequently to the continent to oversee programs that provide healthcare and housing. Woodard is a tireless activist who merges her artistic career with high-impact geopolitical advocacy.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson established the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health in the African American community. Her foundation provides scholarships to black students seeking careers in the mental health field and offers free therapy services. She launched this initiative to honor her father and address the lack of culturally competent psychological care. Henson works diligently to ensure mental wellness is accessible to everyone regardless of their background.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi founded Eighteen x 18 as a platform to educate young people on the importance of voting and civic engagement. She partners with various organizations to promote STEM education for girls and minority students. Her advocacy emphasizes the power of the youth vote to shape policy and social justice outcomes. Shahidi balances her acting career with a rigorous commitment to political activism and peer education.

Zendaya

Zendaya uses her birthday annually to raise money for Convoy of Hope which is a humanitarian organization that provides disaster relief and feeding initiatives. She serves as an ambassador for UNAIDS to help raise awareness about HIV prevention and treatment. Her philanthropy includes supporting underprivileged schools in her hometown of Oakland with supplies and funding. Zendaya consistently encourages her massive younger fanbase to participate in charitable giving.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith co-founded the Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation to invest in organizations that focus on arts education and sustainability. The foundation supports initiatives that provide clean water and renewable energy solutions in developing countries. She also advocates for victims of human trafficking and funds programs designed to rescue and rehabilitate survivors. Her philanthropic portfolio is diverse and aims to empower individuals through education and wellness.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah established the Lancelot H. Owens Scholarship Foundation to provide college scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership but lack financial means. She is a long-time supporter of the American Heart Association and their campaigns to improve cardiovascular health. Her charitable work extends to organizing events that support veterans and their families. Latifah remains a strong pillar in her community by investing in the future of ambitious young students.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton is a passionate activist for the V-Day movement which seeks to end violence against women and girls globally. She travels to the Congo to support the City of Joy which is a leadership community for women survivors of violence. Her advocacy involves speaking at international forums to demand justice for victims of sexual abuse in conflict zones. Newton uses her platform to ensure that the stories of these survivors are heard on a global stage.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is a founding member of Comic Relief US which has raised vast sums to help people in need through the power of entertainment. She is a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has supported numerous organizations fighting against discrimination. Her philanthropy also covers literacy programs and support for the homeless population in New York City. Goldberg consistently lends her voice and resources to human rights campaigns.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is a dedicated supporter of City Year which is an education-focused non-profit that helps students stay in school and on track to graduate. She frequently donates to buy out movie theaters so underserved communities can see culturally significant films for free. Her charitable acts often focus on providing inspiration and representation to young children of color. Spencer believes that seeing oneself on screen is a vital part of a child’s development and confidence.

Holly Robinson Peete

Holly Robinson Peete founded the HollyRod Foundation to provide compassionate care to those living with Parkinson’s disease and autism. Her organization offers resources and financial support to families who are struggling to afford necessary medical treatments. She became a vocal advocate after her father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and her son with autism. Peete works tirelessly to expand vocational training opportunities for young adults on the spectrum.

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson co-founded Voto Latino to encourage young Hispanic and Latino voters to become more politically involved. She serves on the board of the Lower Eastside Girls Club in New York to provide mentoring and arts education. Her philanthropy includes extensive work with environmental groups that promote sustainable living in urban areas. Dawson integrates her activism into her daily life by championing diverse voices in democracy.

Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones serves as a board member for the International Rescue Committee and advocates for refugees worldwide. She has traveled to refugee camps to witness the crisis firsthand and to lobby for increased humanitarian aid. Her work includes producing documentaries that highlight the struggles of displaced people. Jones uses her storytelling skills to foster empathy and generate support for global relief efforts.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is a prominent supporter of Planned Parenthood and advocates for reproductive health and rights. She is a founding member of the Time’s Up movement which aims to address systemic inequality and injustice in the workplace. Her philanthropy involves mentoring young women in the entertainment industry to help them navigate their careers. Ross consistently uses her public appearances to speak on the importance of gender equity.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba works closely with Stand Up To Cancer to raise funds for innovative cancer research and patient care. She also serves as an ambassador for Heifer International to help end hunger and poverty by providing livestock to families in need. Her advocacy includes promoting clean water initiatives in Nigeria and other African nations. Aduba is dedicated to causes that provide long-term sustainable solutions for impoverished communities.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira founded Love Our Girls to highlight the challenges faced by women and girls globally and to advocate for gender equality. She works with the ONE Campaign to fight extreme poverty and preventable diseases in Africa. Her philanthropy focuses on ensuring that women in developing nations have access to education and healthcare. Gurira uses her artistic works to amplify the narratives of African women.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is an ambassador for organizations that address mental health issues and strives to remove the stigma associated with seeking help. She supports environmental causes such as the campaign to ban single-use plastics to protect the oceans. Her charitable work includes mentoring young actors from disadvantaged backgrounds in London. Harris believes in using her success to open doors for the next generation of talent.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox is a leading voice for the transgender community and works with organizations designed to protect trans rights. She advocates for the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs to reduce hate crimes and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. Her philanthropy involves fundraising for homeless queer youth who have been rejected by their families. Cox travels the country to educate the public on the importance of inclusivity and acceptance.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish founded the She Ready Foundation to provide foster children with resources such as suitcases and mentorship programs. She draws from her own experience in the foster care system to ensure current foster youth feel dignified and supported. Her foundation also offers internship programs to help these young adults gain professional experience. Haddish is committed to improving the quality of life for children in state care.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall acts as an ambassador for the Scleroderma Research Foundation after her mother was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease. She organizes fundraising events and awareness campaigns to help finance the search for a cure. Her work involves educating the public on the early signs of the condition to improve patient outcomes. Hall is deeply invested in supporting families who are navigating complex medical challenges.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is an active member of the Time’s Up movement and advocates for safe and equitable workplaces for women. She supports initiatives that address housing insecurity in Los Angeles by working with local shelters. Her philanthropy includes fundraising for legal defense funds that support victims of sexual harassment. Thompson consistently pushes for diversity and inclusion riders in film contracts.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae is a strong proponent of economic development in South Los Angeles and invested in the Destination Crenshaw project. She supports minority-owned businesses and creates opportunities for black creators through her production company. Her advocacy focuses on gentrification issues and ensuring that local communities benefit from urban development. Rae uses her influence to build wealth and stability within the black community.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer works with the Saving Our Daughters organization to combat bullying and empower young girls from diverse backgrounds. She leads workshops that focus on building self-esteem and performing arts skills for teenagers. Her philanthropy includes using her digital platforms to discuss mental health and social pressure. Palmer connects with youth directly to provide guidance and encouragement.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg serves as an ambassador for No Kid Hungry to help end childhood hunger in America. She advocates for the rights of non-binary and LGBTQ+ youth through various social justice organizations. Her charitable work includes supporting funds that provide scholarships for students of color. Stenberg uses her platform to challenge societal norms and promote intersectional activism.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph founded the DIVA Foundation to raise awareness and erase the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. She created the annual Divas Simply Singing event which is the longest-running consecutive running musical AIDS benefit in the country. Her work focuses on the disproportionate impact of the virus on women and people of color. Ralph has spent decades mobilizing the entertainment industry to support health equity.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good is an advocate for the Greater Than AIDS campaign which focuses on HIV prevention and treatment. She works to empower young women to take control of their sexual health and wellness through education. Her philanthropy includes volunteering with organizations that mentor at-risk youth in Los Angeles. Good uses her personal testimony and faith to inspire positive lifestyle choices.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold formed the We Win Foundation to support individuals and families suffering from Lupus and other autoimmune diseases. She organizes fundraising galas and educational seminars to help patients manage their conditions. Her advocacy stems from her sister’s battle with the disease and the need for better resources. Arnold is dedicated to funding research that will lead to better treatments and a cure.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams is a long-time supporter of Dress for Success which helps women achieve economic independence by providing professional attire and support. She serves on the board of Special Olympics International and advocates for people with intellectual disabilities. Her philanthropy includes supporting the theatre community through organizations like Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Williams is committed to causes that foster dignity and inclusion.

CCH Pounder

CCH Pounder is a founding member of the African Millennium Foundation which seeks to socially and economically empower women in Africa. She funds micro-credit projects and educational grants to help women start sustainable businesses. Her advocacy includes raising awareness about the arts and culture of the African diaspora. Pounder uses her resources to build bridges between the United States and African nations.

Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen opened the Debbie Allen Dance Academy to provide comprehensive dance training to students regardless of their financial status. She offers numerous scholarships to ensure that talented youth from low-income families can access top-tier instruction. Her organization also focuses on arts education for the elderly and cancer patients. Allen believes that dance is a universal language that can heal and unite communities.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and shares her journey with bipolar disorder to reduce stigma. She supports organizations that provide psychiatric care to underserved populations. Her philanthropy includes fundraising for AIDS charities and LGBTQ+ community centers. Lewis uses her energetic personality to champion the importance of medication and therapy.

Karyn Parsons

Karyn Parsons founded Sweet Blackberry to bring little-known stories of African American achievement to children. Her organization produces animated films and books that teach black history to a young audience. She raises funds to distribute these educational materials to schools and libraries for free. Parsons is committed to ensuring that children of all races see the value of black history.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King is an ambassador for L’Oreal Paris Women of Worth which honors women who selflessly volunteer in their communities. She works with the Center for Reproductive Rights to advocate for legislative changes that protect women’s health. Her charitable work includes supporting career development programs for young women of color. King uses her visibility to elevate the profiles of grassroots activists.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais supports Angels for Humanity which provides medical and educational support to impoverished children in Haiti. She organizes mission trips to deliver school supplies and toys to orphanages in her home country. Her advocacy includes raising awareness about the ongoing political and environmental crises in Haiti. Beauvais remains deeply committed to improving the future for Haitian children.

Please share your thoughts on these impactful women and their charitable work in the comments.