Steve Harvey has dedicated himself to helping young black men achieve success. Since 2009, Harvey has hosted a four-day camp for boys who come from homes headed by single mothers. The Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend provides the young men with guidance, discipline and tools for achievement.
To raise money for the annual retreat and to honor others for their philanthropic efforts, Harvey hosted the Steve Harvey Foundation Gala at Cipriani on Wall Street in New York. Sherri Shepherd of “The View” served as the co-host.
On this rousing night, 500 friends, family members and supporters were on hand including Russell Simmons, Gayle King, Boris Kodjoe, New York Giant Justin Tuck and more to applaud honorees Tyler Perry, Chris and Malaak Rock and Alan Mulally of Ford Motor Company who were all recognized with the Steve Harvey Foundation’s Helping Hand Award. The event raised more than $600,000.
During the evening’s festivities, attendees provided insight on the importance of Harvey’s foundation. –amir shaw
Steve Harvey
“My father was my greatest influence. I had my father until I was 42. That’s why this program is so important. Because it’s difficult for these young men who grow up without fathers. Learning how to be a man without a father is like being an explorer without a map. It’s such a daunting task for these young men and we have to do more to encourage them.”
“Mentoring is important. I grew up with my father in the ‘hood in Bedstuy, Brooklyn. People would come and look at my father like he was a science project. But we need more black fathers and mentors.”
“I want to show that there are a lot of ways to encouraged. There were no positive role models in my neighborhood. I only saw dope boys with the cars and houses. Unfortunately, a lot of kids are growing up in the same kind of environment. That’s why it’s important for us to support Steve’s foundation to prove that there is a way out.”
Sherri Shepherd
“I’ve known Steve for a couple of decades. I’m a single mom and it’s hard raising a child by [yourself]. I support any assistance somebody tries to give us as single moms. I was moved when I was at the event last year, and I decided to play a more active role this time around.”
Angela Simmons
“It’s important for the kids who are mentored to be patient and persistent with whatever they do. They should never give up. There will be obstacles and haters a long the way and everyone will not believe in them. But they have to always have the confidence to believe that they can do anything.”
