Tyler Perry is set to receive the prestigious AARP Purpose Prize for his incredible contributions to uplifting communities and helping individuals overcome obstacles through his charitable work. The announcement was made on Thursday, with Perry being recognized for his philanthropic efforts via The Perry Foundation during a virtual ceremony on October 25.
Launched in 2006, The Perry Foundation has been instrumental in supporting various initiatives, ranging from education and health to human rights and global sustainability. Perry’s charitable acts have made a profound difference in many lives. Notably, he has provided housing for a great-grandmother of seven who lost her home in a fire, surprised children with an all-expenses-paid trip to Disney World, and organized a unique Camp Quarantine at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta during the height of the pandemic.
The AARP Purpose Prize honors individuals over the age of 50 who use their life experience and knowledge to make a lasting impact on their communities. Besides Perry, five other outstanding individuals will be celebrated for their remarkable work. These include Zerqa Abid, founder of MY Project USA, which empowers youth; Jamesetta Ferguson, whose Molo Village CDC promotes community development; Sharron Rush, who works for digital accessibility for people with disabilities through Knowbility; Bill Toone, whose ECOLIFE Conservation protects wildlife and natural resources; and Imani Woody, founder of Mary’s House for Older Adults, which provides affordable, communal housing.
In addition to the main prize, AARP will also honor 10 previously named Purpose Prize fellows, each of whom will receive a $10,000 award to continue furthering the mission of their respective organizations. AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals like Perry, stating, “We celebrate these inspiring individuals, who have used their decades of life experience to give back in a meaningful way, to be leaders in their communities, and to create a better future for us all.”
The award ceremony will also see the return of the Inspire Award, where the public can vote for their favorite Purpose Prize winner, granting the recipient an additional $10,000 for their organization. Perry’s recognition highlights his unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in society.
