These Musicians Are Giving Back In Surprising Ways

Ray Charles Supported Education

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The world lost musician Ray Charles on June 10, 2004, but he continues to help others through his philanthropic foundation. The Ray Charles Foundation was established in 1986 and its primary purpose was to aid people with hearing problems.

Over the years, the foundation’s mission expanded to include “the empowerment of young people through … [the] support of education institutions and nonprofit education programs.” Charles also donated several million dollars to historically black universities, such as Albany State University and Wilberforce University, during his lifetime.