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Category: Education and Philanthropy

  • T.I.’s 20-Year Thanksgiving Turkey Drive

    For two decades, rapper Clifford T.I. Harris has been a true hometown hero, consistently giving back to the Atlanta community that shaped him. His annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, now celebrating its 20th year, is a testament to his enduring commitment to ensuring his neighbors have a warm meal during the holidays.

    A Generational Tradition of Giving

    This isn’t just a one-man show; T.I. brings his entire family into the fold. This year, an impressive four generations were present, from his mother and aunts to his sons and even his grandchildren. They’ve all been serving at the drive since its inception in 2005, making it a cherished family tradition.

    T.I.’s son, Damani Harris, shared how ingrained this spirit of giving is. “All my life, whether I knew it or not, my family has been giving back,” he told BLACK ENTERPRISE. “It’s instilled in me.” He recalls participating in various drives, like Christmas toy giveaways and the turkey drive, since he was just a toddler.

    More Than Just Turkeys

    The generosity extends far beyond just the main course. Attendees receive a bounty of holiday staples, including corn, collard greens, green beans, eggs, bread, milk, and a delightful assortment of desserts. It’s a comprehensive effort to make Thanksgiving truly special for hundreds of families.

    T.I.’s sons, King (21) and Buddy Red (who started helping around age 6 or 7 in 2006), have also been dedicated participants for many years. Buddy Red noted that while his father and uncles didn’t necessarily need his help, they wanted him to understand the importance of community involvement from a young age.

    Community and Celebrity Support

    This massive undertaking wouldn’t be possible without the support of various partners. The city of Atlanta, Humana, Comcast, and local food banks all contribute as sponsors and volunteers. Longtime friends, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and fellow rapper Young Dro (who even performed), show up to lend their support.

    It’s a blessing to be able to give back to a community that has given so much to us. Four generations, my grandbabies are here … It’s just a blessing, man, to be able to do what we love and to be afforded the opportunity to pass those blessings on to others, especially in times like now. — T.I. (Clifford Harris)

    T.I.’s dedication over the past 20 years highlights the profound impact that consistent community engagement can have. It’s a powerful example of how individuals, especially those with a public platform, can make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

    What are your favorite ways to give back to your community during the holidays? Share your ideas in the comments below!

  • FAMU Journalism Future Secured by Alumna’s $25K Gift

    Imagine being honored for a lifetime of dedication to your craft, and then immediately turning that moment into an investment in the next generation. That’s exactly what celebrated journalist and publisher Cheryl Smith did when she was inducted into Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) School of Journalism and Graphic Communication’s Thelma Thurston Gorham Distinguished Wall of Fame.

    A Generous Gift for Future Journalists

    Following the unveiling of her portrait on October 17th, Smith announced a significant commitment: a $25,000 donation to establish the ‘Cheryl Smith’s Soldiers Without Swords Scholarship.’ This scholarship is set to award its first recipient in the Fall 2026 semester, marking 50 years since Smith first walked the halls of FAMU.

    This generous gift is more than just a donation; it’s a powerful testament to Smith’s belief in the importance of supporting aspiring journalists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. It ensures that the legacy of the Black press and FAMU’s commitment to journalistic excellence will continue to thrive.

    Honoring a Legacy of Truth and Equity

    During the 90-minute ceremony, Dean Mira Lowe praised Smith’s profound impact, stating that her portrait is a ‘powerful testament to her unwavering commitment to truth, equity, and excellence in journalism.’ Lowe highlighted how Smith’s work truly embodies the spirit of the school’s founder, Dr. Thelma Thurston Gorham.

    Smith herself shared that the decision to fund a scholarship was immediate upon learning of the honor. She presented a $25,000 check to Dean Lowe, emphasizing the critical role of alumni support in the institution’s success. Her dedication goes even further, as she mentioned FAMU is included in her will, showcasing a lifelong commitment.

    A Career Built on Mentorship

    Smith’s induction recognizes her significant achievements, including being a National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Hall of Famer and a key figure in the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). However, it also shines a light on her decades-long dedication to mentoring young reporters.

    Marlon Walker, managing editor at The Marshall Project, commended Smith for ‘making sure that our community is well-served and well-informed.’ Royle King, a FAMU graduate and city official, credited Smith’s mentorship through the Urban Journalism Workshop for instilling ‘a seed of excellence’ in him. King demonstrated his gratitude by presenting an initial $1,000 annual donation to Smith’s new scholarship fund.

    Adding Cheryl Smith’s portrait … is a powerful testament to her unwavering commitment to truth, equity, and excellence in journalism. — Dean Mira Lowe

    Dr. Benjamin Chavis, president/CEO of the NNPA, called the event a ‘historical moment,’ hailing Smith as a ‘great publisher and a great freedom fighter.’ Karen Carter Richards, head of the NNPA Fund, praised Smith’s ‘principled guidance of hundreds of young people.’ Smith, inspired by her own mentors like the late Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and activist Dick Gregory, pledged to continue her mission, stating, ‘We must work to help each other and make the world a better place.’

    Investing in the Future of Journalism

    The funds for this scholarship were raised with the help of a dedicated group of ‘Champions,’ including family, sorority sisters, mentees, and professional colleagues. This collective effort highlights the widespread respect and admiration for Cheryl Smith and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of Black journalists.

    What are your thoughts on Cheryl Smith’s incredible contribution to FAMU? Share your appreciation for mentorship and alumni support in the comments below!