Music for a Cause: Khalid's Philanthropic Efforts

Khalid is not only a talented soul, but he also has a big heart. The five-time Grammy nominee is renowned for his philanthropy, something he started while still young.

While his industry is filled with self-absorbed individuals, Khalid offers a breadth of fresh air by inspiring the younger generation and offering financial support to deserving children.

While launching the foundation in April 2019, he said, "I created a foundation that supports music and schools in underserved communities." In a nod to the age-old adage – charity begins at home – he noted that his charity "starts in El Paso." He concludes, saying, "My goal is to provide resources and help bridge education and prominent music programs in the city."

In May, he launched the Great Khalid Foundation, an avenue through which he could channel his philanthropic work. Khalid aimed to use music and art to help underserved children.

"If I wasn't in the position I am in life right now, I would've became a music teacher," he captioned while sharing the news of the launch on Facebook. "Luckily, I get to teach in a way I would've never imagined! I wanna give a congratulations to all of the Performing Arts Scholarship winners!" he concluded by saying, "Everything is super new right now, and it's all a work in progress, but you gotta start somewhere! Manifestation is super important! One day, I WILL open up a school, but I gotta believe in myself."

In addition to Khalid's statement, the foundation website states that Khalid and the team behind the foundation were "committed to creating an atmosphere of support and freedom for kids to dream BIG!"

The website adds, "Through our music education programs, scholarship awards, community partnerships, and gift giveaways, we are investing in our children and their future."

In May 2019, his foundation gave out three scholarships worth $10,000 each (for a total of $30,000), marking the first philanthropic effort Khalid had made through his new foundation.

The foundation is still going strong and working towards meeting Khalid's goals of "Bridging Education and Music." The foundation runs several programs aimed at achieving its original goals. On its website, the foundation lists its programs as

• Juneteenth Art Contest

• Performing Arts Scholarship

• Honoring Parents

• Fine Arts Student Exhibition: Celebrating Black History

• Back To School Program

• Sun City Gala

• Music In Schools

• The Great Thanksgiving Giveaway

• Christmas With Khalid

• A Night For Suncity

Khalid continues his philanthropic efforts, even today. As recently as December 2023, he donated gifts to two El Paso schools, Cooley Elementary and Putnam, via his foundation.

If you want to participate in the Great Khalid Foundation courses, you can do so through their "Shop for a Cause" program. You can also offer financial support, or you can share your time.

In 2023, the BMI awarded Khalid a BMI Champion Award for his exceptional artistry and philanthropy.

Barbra Cane, the vice president of worldwide creative, said the following regarding Khalid while announcing the award: "Khalid exemplifies the true spirit of a champion as one who believes, one who does, and one who generously gives back."

She added, "...we're honoring Khalid for his dedication to charitable causes, community, education, and his commitment to supporting the next generation of songwriters and music makers."