Hiphop & Friends

Hiphop & Friends is a 501(c)(3) public charity based in the United States, focused on promoting children's literacy and addressing teen homelessness through innovative methods that integrate the power of hip-hop. Founded on March 6, 2019, by Lawrence Engerman Jr., a former independent hip-hop artist and children's book author, the organization aims to unify children of different nationalities through literacy.

Mission and Activities

The mission of Hiphop & Friends is to provide sensible and creative solutions for improving children's literacy while creating opportunities for at-risk teens and young adults. By leveraging hip-hop culture, the organization seeks to inspire young people to engage with reading and education, thereby equipping them with the foundational skills necessary for success. Additionally, Hiphop & Friends works diligently to create job opportunities within impacted communities, fostering change through both education and employment.

Organizational Structure and Growth

Hiphop & Friends operates with a dedicated team of representatives and volunteers, many of whom have personal experiences with homelessness or being at risk. This background empowers them to connect closely with the communities they serve. The organization currently has three chapters and is expanding rapidly, driven by its commitment to impacting positive change.

Funding and Donations

Support for Hiphop & Friends comes from donations, which are crucial in bolstering their mission. Each donation contributes to providing educational materials to children, with specific donation tiers offering tangible rewards, such as books and stickers for children. Donors can also become part of the Hiphop & Friends community through recurring donations, furthering the organization's ability to meet its literacy and job creation goals.