He's partnering with brother Big Gates to set up Big Gates and Plies Power Of Visions Foundation in a bid to help promote a "more functional, productive and just community."
- Jul 1, 2008
AceShowbiz - The success of his second studio album "Definition of Real" apparently has inspired Plies to cash in on his fame to do good deed for his community. The rap artist is teaming up with his brother Big Gates, the CEO of Big Gates Records, to set up a non-profit organization which aim is to help promote a "more functional, productive and just community," reports said.
The new organization is called Big Gates and Plies Power Of Visions Foundation, Inc. In addition to providing educational forums, classes, workshops, training, opportunities, and other charitable activities aimed at rehabilitated former prisoners, the organization as well is offering fund for legal representation and aid to needy individuals, especially those who are incarcerated.
The organization's first drive will be the Somebody Loves You Scholarship Fund 2008, which is named after Plies' new song from his sophomore effort. The scholarships, worth $5,000 each, are awarded to students, one male and one female, who are the children of an incarcerated parent and in a financial need. The scholarship is open to students who are currently enrolled or who will be entering school this fall.
What's more, Big Gates and Plies Power Of Visions Foundation will focus on promoting activities for youth and minorities, including education, mentorship, cultural experiences, and preventative measures, all of which are meant to combat incarceration in the Tampa and Ft. Myers, Florida areas.
"We want to provide those who have been and continue to be affected by the negative impacts of the prison system with a sense of hope, and to let them know that they are not forgotten," Plies explained in a statement. "No matter what adversities one may face in life, one thing remains true - and that is that somebody loves you."
More information on the organization and scholarship, as well as scholarship application details, are available at pliesworld.com.
Plies' "Definition of Real" debuted on the Billboard 200 at number 2 behind Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III". The LP sold 214,902 in its first week after being released on June 10, making it his second top ten album and highest first week sales.
