AARP Celebrates Taraji P. Henson with Prestigious Purpose Prize Award.
AARP will celebrate the actress at an October 1 ceremony for her commitment to offering mental health resources through BLHF.
Emmy Award-winning actress and philanthropist Taraji P. Henson will receive an honorary Purpose Prize from AARP in recognition of her dedication to advancing mental wellness and offering mental health resources to marginalized communities through the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF).
On October 1, Henson and her organization will be honored at an in-person event hosted by AARP, the nation’s largest nonprofit focused on empowering Americans aged 50 and older. AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins remarked in a press release, “We are proud to recognize our AARP Purpose Prize winners, who leverage their lifetime experiences to fulfill their own purpose while developing innovative solutions for living, aging, and addressing critical social issues.” Henson’s efforts with BLHF align with AARP’s mission to support American families in advocating for health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.
Founded in 2018, the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation honors Henson’s father, who struggled with mental health issues after his Vietnam War service. Partnering with her friend Tracie Jade Jenkins, the “Hidden Figures” actress created the foundation to address the specific needs of communities of color.
According to the BLHF website, “As a leading advocate for Black mental health, BLHF is committed to helping individuals embrace their history and heritage. We are working towards a future where mental health flourishes in Black communities, enabling people to prioritize their well-being and receive the care they deserve.”
BLHF provides “culturally competent” therapy referrals, wellness resources, impactful programs, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives to reduce the stigma around mental health in marginalized communities. As reported by BLACK ENTERPRISE, BLHF partnered with Kate Spade in 2023 to launch ‘She Care Wellness Pods,’ an innovative program designed to offer essential mental health resources for women and girls on HBCU campuses.
The author of “Around the Way Girl” will join the seven 2025 Purpose Prize winners in Washington D.C., alongside STEM NOLA Founder and CEO Calvin Mackie, Ph.D., as AARP honors these individuals for their community contributions and advocacy. Each recipient will receive $50,000 for their organizations.
