Paying for college is never easy. That's why Black-ish star Anthony Anderson joined forces with Usher, Pharrell Williams, Big Sean, Toni Braxton, Kevin Hart and other celebrities to grant scholarships of more than $500,000 to future college students through the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
According to Billboard, Anthony hosted the UNCF's 36th Annual An Evening of Stars that will air tomorrow, April 26. The actor shared his personal experience in seeking funds to go to college.
"My parents couldn't afford sending me to school, so I understand firsthand," Anthony said according to Billboard. He added, "We're here to help alleviate the burden off their shoulders. Students won't have to worry about their next meal, or pay for next semester or housing. The only thing they have to do is open a book and study."
Accordng to the UNCF website, the organization's focus is to enable more than 60,000 students a year to attend college. The organization boasts having raised more than $3.6 billion to help more than 400,000 students receive college degrees since its founding in 1944. Some of the organization's accomplishments as listed on the site include:
- Awarding 10,000 scholarships and internships under 400 programs for students from low- and moderate-income families to attend more than 900 colleges and universities across the country;
- Providing financial support for its 37 member historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for scholarships and capacity building;
- Advocating nationally for the importance of education and college readiness through its annual television program, a national public service announcement campaign, and commentary in national media;
- Advocating locally at events across the country such as Governor's and Mayor's luncheons, Walk for Education events and Mayor's Masked Balls.
Twenty students received more than $500,000 in scholarships during the 36th annual event. Two scholarships were matched by UNCF and the others were given by celebs including Anderson, Usher, Braxton, Williams, Hart and Big Sean, Billboard reported.
Catch UNCF An Evening of Stars tomorrow at 10 p.m. on BET.
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