African-American Actresses Who Are Philanthropists

by

Many well-known Black actresses have consistently used their influence to advocate for positive change and help people around the world. They successfully manage demanding careers in Hollywood while also deeply committing themselves to causes like education, healthcare, and fairness. By starting their own charities and working with international organizations, they tackle big problems and provide support to communities in need. Their charitable efforts are often driven by their own life experiences and a commitment to making a lasting difference, extending far beyond their work in entertainment.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey is dedicated to improving lives through her charitable work. She created the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation to fund education and empowerment initiatives for women and children around the world. A prime example is the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, which provides excellent education and leadership training to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Previously, through her Angel Network, she collected millions of dollars for important causes and disaster relief. Today, she continues to prioritize literacy, healthcare, and equal opportunities for all.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is a passionate supporter of fighting childhood hunger, acting as an ambassador for the ‘No Kid Hungry’ organization. She’s spoken openly about her own experiences with food insecurity to help raise both awareness and money for the ‘Hunger Is’ campaign. Beyond that, Davis dedicates her time to the ‘Segue Center’ in Rhode Island, an organization that provides vital support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She also partners with the ‘Upstate Foundation’ to enhance healthcare access and quality in underserved communities.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson created the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to honor her father and offer mental health support to the Black community. The foundation works to reduce the shame around mental health issues and helps students pursue careers in the field through scholarships. Recognizing the importance of ongoing care, Henson also launched a campaign offering free virtual therapy, especially during difficult times. Ultimately, her work aims to provide resources and create safe environments for people to heal and prioritize their mental wellbeing.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett has consistently supported organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, where she’s been recognized as an alumna for her dedication. She’s also a UNICEF ambassador, working to improve the lives of children and young people worldwide. Beyond that, she actively supports the American Cancer Society and raises awareness about diabetes. Overall, Angela Bassett focuses her charitable work on helping young people succeed and improving public health.

Halle Berry

For over twenty years, Halle Berry has passionately supported the Jenesse Center, a Los Angeles program helping people escape domestic violence. She consistently raises money to provide safe housing, legal help, and job training for survivors. Berry also works with Watch Hunger Stop, supporting the United Nations World Food Programme, and has provided aid through the Afghanistan Relief Organization to help with education and essential needs.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington dedicates her time to several important causes. She’s involved with the ‘Artists Committee for Americans for the Arts’ and ‘Turnaround Arts’, helping to bring arts education to schools that need it most. She also supports the ‘Allstate Foundation Purple Purse’ program, which provides financial assistance to people experiencing domestic violence. Additionally, Washington works with ‘Voto Latino’ to encourage young people to participate in civic life and register to vote. Through these efforts, she champions social justice, women’s rights, and equal access to education.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross is a passionate supporter of several important causes. She’s a strong voice for the ‘Time’s Up’ movement, working to create safe and fair workplaces for women. She also champions ‘Dress for Success,’ which helps women gain financial independence by providing them with professional clothing and career development resources. Additionally, Ross partners with the ‘Los Angeles LGBT Center’ to support programs for the local LGBTQ+ community and young people. Through her charitable work, she consistently emphasizes the value of self-love and empowering those who face systemic disadvantages.

Zendaya

Zendaya regularly partners with ‘Convoy of Hope’, often asking her fans to donate to help people affected by disasters and fight global poverty, especially around her birthday. She’s also supported the ‘FeedOne’ program, which provides food to children in need around the world. In addition, Zendaya works with ‘UNAIDS’ to educate young people about preventing and treating HIV/AIDS. Her work focuses on providing quick help to those in crisis and inspiring young people to get involved in important social issues.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi founded ‘Eighteen x 18’ to encourage young people to vote and get involved in their communities. She also works with ‘DoSomething.org’ to promote science and technology careers, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, Shahidi supports ‘Girl Up,’ a UN program focused on developing young female leaders and advancing gender equality. Her work is driven by a commitment to education, fairness, and encouraging people to participate in the political process.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

As a huge movie and theater fan, I’ve always admired Sheryl Lee Ralph, and I learned about the incredible work she’s done beyond performing. Back in 1990, she started ‘The DIVA Foundation’ to honor friends she lost to HIV/AIDS and to help educate people about the disease. It’s amazing – they put on an annual concert called ‘DIVAS Simply Singing!’ that’s actually the longest-running AIDS benefit concert in the country! She’s received a ‘Red Ribbon Award’ for all her dedication, and I really respect how she consistently works to break down the stigma around HIV/AIDS. Plus, she’s passionate about using the arts to empower women and young people, which I think is fantastic.

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

Read More

2026-02-15 22:23