November 24, 2009
*Entertainment mogul Tyler Perry continues to give back to the community. The latest recipient of his largesse is the NAACP.
The country’s oldest and largest civil rights organization, announced Monday that Perry has donated one million dollars, marking the largest gift ever given by an individual entertainer.
In addition, Perry purchased several NAACP commissioned Jacob Lawrence lithographs and additional lithographs by celebrated artists Jonathan Green, Elizabeth Catlett and Sam Gilliam.
The monetary gift, which will be distributed over the next four years, was made to commemorate the organization’s Centennial anniversary.
“We are honored that Tyler Perry chose to support the NAACP,” said Julian Bond, Chairman of the NAACP. “Tyler is a courageous pioneer in bringing positive images of African American culture and struggles to the screen. His remarkable journey from poverty and childhood abuse to become one of the world’s most successful filmmakers and entrepreneurs is an inspiration to us all,” Bond said.
“I feel so honored and blessed to be in a position where I can give to the NAACP.” Perry said. “Had it not been for the perseverance and vision of the thousands who came before me in the 100 years of this legendary organization, I would not be in the position I am in today. I continue to be thankful for the tireless work of the NAACP, and I am proud to be able to help in their mission to fight for the equality of all people, and to work towards the elimination of discrimination against race.”
“The generous gift by Tyler Perry will be used to support our Second Century Society advocacy programs on economic equality, education, health care and criminal justice” stated Benjamin Todd Jealous, President and CEO of the NAACP.
The gifting and giving doesn’t stop for Perry. The writer /director /actor/producer has also donated $150,000 to two Atlanta hunger relief organizations – The Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB) and Hosea Feed the Hungry (HFTH).
Each donation will be comprised of a $50,000 food donation to be delivered November 19th, and $25,000 toward daily operating costs.
Perry once benefited from organizations such as Hosea Feed the Hungry and The Atlanta Community Food Bank. The successful entrepreneur experienced periods of homelessness and hunger before finding success. He now focuses his philanthropic efforts toward charities benefiting those who are homeless and hungry including Feeding America, Covenant House and Perry Place – a 20 home community he built for displaced survivors of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.
