The Diva Foundation, a nonprofit charitable organization founded by Emmy-winning actress and activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, has recently undergone a rebrand and is expanding its programming efforts. Founded in 1990, the Diva Foundation initially focused on raising awareness and preventing HIV/AIDS. However, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing battles for social justice, the foundation has decided to broaden its goals and help empower communities to achieve better health outcomes.
Alongside the rebranding, the Diva Foundation has expanded its programming to encompass five pillars: Health Awareness, Women and Girls, LGBTQ+, Social Justice & Racial Equity, and Food & Housing Insecurity. By expanding its focus, the foundation aims to address the various issues affecting marginalized communities and work towards creating more equitable health outcomes.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, the founder of the Diva Foundation, emphasized the importance of trusted messengers in effective artistic activism. They bring their own experiences and make a difference by making people feel seen and heard. Ralph expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from volunteers, fellow celebrities, influencers, and corporate partners, who have helped make her vision a reality.
To execute the rebranding and implement the expanded vision, Ralph has appointed Norman Lee, a tech executive and 18-year volunteer, as the Diva Foundation’s executive director. Lee expressed his dedication to the work by sharing his personal connection to the cause. He began volunteering with the foundation in memory of his beloved aunts who died from AIDS complications. Over the years, he has been involved in various programs, such as the Sisters Circle program in South Africa, and has launched new virtual programming like DIVAS Health Awareness Week. He is motivated to reach even more people and make a positive impact in the community.
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During the remainder of 2023, the Diva Foundation will focus on three key initiatives. The first is DIVAS Simply Singing! Raising Health Awareness, an annual benefit concert that raises awareness and funds for programs educating audiences on HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening health conditions. The highly anticipated event will take place at the historic Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles, with the date soon to be announced on the foundation’s website.
Another initiative is the launch of DIVAZine, a bi-annual health and lifestyle publication centered around Black women. This publication aims to provide valuable information and resources to empower Black women to prioritize their health and well-being.
Lastly, the foundation will host DIVAS Health Awareness Week, a week of virtual programming featuring panels, fireside chats, creative entertainment, and more. This programming aims to raise overall health awareness, promote well-being and self-advocacy, and address stigmas associated with comorbidities. Health and wellness industry experts will contribute content to the week’s slate, along with special programming curated by the foundation’s team of experts. This event will kick off on November 27 and conclude on December 1, which is World AIDS Day.
Overall, the Diva Foundation is undergoing an exciting transformation and expansion of its programming. With an increased focus on community empowerment and better health outcomes, the foundation is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and communities in need. Through initiatives like DIVAS Simply Singing!, DIVAZine, and DIVAS Health Awareness Week, the foundation will continue its mission to raise awareness, provide support, and create positive change for marginalized populations. With the support of dedicated volunteers, influential figures, and corporate partners, the Diva Foundation is well-positioned to make a significant difference in the lives of those it serves.
