“Just for clarity, my presence is charity”- JayZ
In the spirit of celebrating birthdays (16 days away from my 25th!!) I decided to donate to Shaw ‘JayZ’ Carter’s Shawn Carter Foundation, in honor of the hip hop mogul/ philanthropist birthday . Carter celebrated his 44th birthday today.
The mission of the Shawn Carter Foundation is to help individuals facing socio-economic hardships further their education at institutions of higher learning. The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation was conceived of in 2002 and officially established as a 501(c)3 public charity in 2003 by Shawn & Gloria Carter. With an original vision and mission to help individuals facing socio-economic hardships further their education at institutions of higher learning, Shawn and Gloria Carter kicked off the Foundation’s efforts by awarding one student with full college tuition in 2002. In 2003, the Foundation provided 50 scholarships to students in 50 different states. Since 2004 the Foundation has provided scholarships to a growing number of students from across the nation. In 2005, in addition to providing scholarship awards, the Foundation launched the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation College Tours. Since the Foundation’s inception, over 750 students have received awards totaling over $1.3 million dollars. The Foundation is currently on the precipice of growth and is reviewing its current grant-making priorities as it plans for expansion as the Shawn Carter Foundation.
As young African American female who’s mother was a single mom, I understand the struggles of affording school.
Disclaimer:
Recently, the Washington Post ran an article regarding the SCF and is financial transparency, expenses, and distribution:
“Giving away $1.3 million over 10 years sounds like a small number, given that Jay Z is worth a reported $500 million. The foundation is run by his mother, Gloria Carter, who takes no salary from the part-time job. In the most recent IRS 990 records for 2011, the foundation lists $802,425 in revenue, $132,819 in expenses and $141,357 given out in grants and services, leaving a reserve of $528,249.”
While I still support JayZ’s ideologies behind his foundation and wholeheartedly believe there are good efforts and intention, I believe given his platform as an entertainer and “voice of the people” he has an obligation to make sure this foundation operates at the best capacity.
I also reached out to SCF, receiving no response. Every other charity has personally responded to me via email (besides the generic “Thanks for the support”), showing a support for my journey. There wasn’t even a tax deductible form sent out, which they should fall under as a 990.
As a young AfricanAmerican, who looks up to the Carter-Knowles family. I hold them to a high standard of excellence. I just want our greats today to always be at their best because it give my generation and those who follow something to look up too.
Honest post tonight.
Happy Birthday Hov!
-A
#20days20charities 