Usher is giving back to the place where it all started.
The R&B singer, who is currently embarking on his “USHER: Past Present Future” tour, credits the Boys & Girls Club for fostering his artistry. For those very reasons, he has kept the volunteer organization close to his heart and has launched the Usher Raymond IV Spark Lab and Entertainment Industry Club, in partnership with his nonprofit, New Look, according to Billboard.
The new content space celebrated its grand opening at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys & Girls Club in Atlanta, GA.
“I’m happy that the work that I’ve put in has led me to become an inspiration to so many people,” Usher explained to The Atlanta Voice. “The most important part of all of this starts with a spark. An idea. A concept that says, ‘I can have a definition and an idea of what I found passion in.’ And that’s really what New Look started. But the catch is it had to start somewhere before it became a spark. And what was that? The Boys & Girls Club.”
The Grio notes that the Usher Raymond IV Spark Lab and Entertainment Industry Club will cater to youth between the ages of 14 and 24, who will be compensated $15 per hour for completing 120 hours of its curriculum, which combines mentorship with professionals. The studio will focus on music production, filmmaking, photography, podcasts, and other creative areas.
“The Spark Lab and Entertainment Industry Club is about providing our youth with the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to turn their dreams into reality. It’s an honor to help inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators through After School programs,” Usher said, according to Billboard.
He added, “We are invested in our future. We’re invested in youth and I’m an example. I represent an amazing alumni.”
David Jernigan, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta, commented:
“Usher’s Spark Lab will not only be a resource to our Club members but also a space where they can gain hands-on experiences. This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission to ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens by creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments, empowering them to find their spark and pursue their passions.”
