Lance Gross has always desired to learn more about the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle and discovering ways to become an environmental steward for his community. As such, the actor, who currently stars on “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne” and starred in the film Our Family Wedding, has teamed up with Toyota for the Toyota Green Initiative tour.
The mobile tour will visit 13 Historically Black Colleges and Universities to educate students on eco-consciousness. Students are also introduced to Toyota’s innovative Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. During Toyota’s visit to Bowie State University’s homecoming, Gross discussed his role in keeping HBCU students aware of environmental responsibility. –a.r.
Why did you decide to team up with Toyota for this event?
I have a lot of love for Toyota. I was in a bad accident in a Toyota years back. The car flipped over three times and I feel like God and the safety of the car saved my life. I was always into the “Go Green” movement. I didn’t know the proper steps to take to move towards a greener lifestyle before. But this tour is a learning experience for me where I get to learn and educate students at HBCUs.
How is Going Green helpful to the black community?
It’s important for people to change their lifestyles and go green. It’s so simple. It’s as easy as changing a light bulb in your dorm room and using energy efficient light bulbs which use 75 percent less energy and cost less money. They can also unplug their electronics when they are not in use. The television uses energy even when it’s not on so it’s important to unplug it. You can switch your appliances to Energy star, which can save energy. Once people find out how simple it is, more people will do it.
As a graduate of an HBCU, how does this tour help you to educate your peers?
I graduated from Howard University, so I feel like I’m the person that students can relate to and look at on a platform and become encouraged by what we are doing. This initiative is for HBCU students and the alumni who attended [events].
When did you realize that it’s important for you to be a role model?
As an entertainer, I’m in a position to give back. Being a role model is important. I like to live a positive lifestyle. By having a platform, I have to use this to my advantage. People did the same thing for me. I’ve always had people to look up to, so it comes with the job.
