Rapper Future is paying it forward by pouring into the youth of the community that raised him.
For more than a decade the “Life is Good” rapper has made it a priority to give back to his alma mater, Columbia High School in DeKalb County on Atlanta’s east side. From providing scholarships and hosting various educational workshops, Future, in conjunction with his foundation, FreeWishes and Foot Locker Atlanta, has made sure to invest in the lives of students. This year the rapper has paid it forward by funding a complete renovation of the school’s weight room.
“Columbia has had the same weight room since I was attending there,” said Tia Wilburn, FreeWishes Community Engagement Director. “Since our foundation is very big on health and wellness it was important for us to help create an environment for students in which they could be comfortable, have pride, and perform their best.”
Wilburn continued, “Also, research shows that students who are physically active tend to excel academically, and have better attendance. They are less likely to struggle with depression and other mental health issues.” The big reveal of the renovated weight room took place on April 15.
Key pillars of FreeWishes Foundation include providing after-school programs, bringing awareness to healthcare options and advancing student awareness of technology to name a few. FreeWishes isn’t just limiting their charity to indoor priorities. Future is also continuing his tradition of making sure metro Atlanta children have access to free and fun activities by throwing an extravagant Easter egg hunt. The event, which will be held at Kiwanis Stadium in the south Atlanta suburb of Forest Park, is open to children ages 12 and under.
“Our goal with this community-wide event is to bring people from all walks of life together to not only have a fun-filled day but to strengthen the bonds between them,” the “Mask Off” rapper said in his announcement.
From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. children and families can participate in horseback riding, jump in bounce houses, ride a mechanical bull, and enjoy face painting, food and giveaways. The hunt for 30,000 candy and prize filled eggs will take place across three baseball fields — which will be organized by age — and start at 4 p.m.
Wilburn said the event is especially significant for the youth this year because “A lot of people were isolated since covid, and this is our chance to re-connect everyone and allow them to enjoy. We are all better together.”
