Kendrick Lamar's Philanthropy: The Big Ways The Rapper Is Using His Voice for Change
Kendrick Lamar's philanthropic efforts are extensive. Discover how this Grammy-winning artist uses his platform for positive change.
By D.M.June 20 2024, Updated 11:02 a.m. ET
Rapper Kendrick Lamar has never forgotten his roots. His music often reflects the struggles and resilience of his community, and his philanthropy is an extension of this narrative.
Over the years, Kendrick has used his influence and resources to spearhead initiatives that address systemic inequalities, promote educational opportunities, and uplift underprivileged communities.
“Success is how many people I can impact and connect to in the crowd on a scale where they want to push themselves further in life,” Kendrick told Forbes. Adding, “That’s my success. That means the world to me, because I meet these kids everyday.”
Kendrick has stood on his promises to the community, sparking change in a variety of ways. Here is a list of the rapper’s philanthropic efforts, which include widescale efforts and random acts of kindness.
Kendrick donated to Compton schools in a big way.
Kendrick Lamar performs during the 2023 Governors Ball Music Festival.
Lamar has donated substantial amounts to local schools, including hundreds of thousands of dollars to Compton Unified School District’s music, sports, and after-school programs, according to Urban Intellectuals.
This effort is aimed at providing opportunities and keeping students engaged in productive activities.
Kendrick Lamar pulled up to a toy drive in Compton!
Rapper Kendrick Lamar attends the ceremony honoring him with the Keys of the City of Compton
In 2023, Kendrick attended the annual Christmas in Compton toy giveaway, with donations for his hometown. The event featured fellow music industry personalities like Interscope Records co-founder Jimmy Iovine and rapper Jay Worthy, per VIBE. The toy drive is a significant event for the city, providing gifts and joy to many children and families.
Charity concerts are a regular part of Kendrick’s schedule.
Kendrick Lamar at Life Is Beautiful 2023
Kendrick often uses his music to elicit change. He has headlined and performed at various charity concerts, including Global Citizens Festival.
In 2014, the rapper went on a five-stop tour and donated the proceeds to Habitat for Humanity and various Compton-based organizations. These performances not only raise funds but also bring attention to critical social issues.
Kendrick still has a foothold on the block.
In addition to his charitable endeavors, Kendrick makes it a point to stay connected with his friends from the neighborhood where he grew up. During an interview with Cam Capone News, rapper Hitta J3 shared that the "Euphoria" MC has been incredibly supportive – by offering to cover funeral expenses and creating opportunities for his childhood friends.
Hitta himself was prominently featured on the cover of Kendrick's acclaimed album To Pimp a Butterfly.
Kendrick randomly bought sneakers for a basketball team.
Kendrick previously made a big gesture that left a local basketball team inspired. An X user revealed one of Kendrick’s random acts of kindness, which was not previously known to the public. While filming footage for his tour at Campanella Park, Kendrick noticed a group of young athletes practicing. Impressed by their dedication, he took an impromptu break from his shoot to engage with the team.
After a brief chat and finding out their shoe sizes, Lamar made a quick trip to Foot Locker and returned with new sneakers for every member of the team.
