Taraji P. Henson Honored With AARP Award

Actor recognized for her foundation's work combating mental health stigma
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Sep 4, 2024 12:00 AM CDT
Taraji P. Henson Honored With AARP Award
Taraji P. Henson arrives at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, Jan. 15, 2024, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.   (AP Photo/Ashley Landis, File)

Actor Taraji P. Henson will be awarded the honorary AARP Purpose Prize on October 1 in Washington, DC, for her outstanding efforts in tackling mental health stigma in marginalized communities, the AARP said Tuesday. The Oscar-nominated actor's work through the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation aims to provide mental health resources and support and was created in honor of her father, who faced untreated mental health problems after the Vietnam War. Henson expressed her hopes that this recognition will shine a spotlight on mental health and encourage more open discussions about mental struggles.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, established in 2018, looks to help marginalized communities access mental health resources without fear or shame. Henson emphasized the foundation's mission to "eradicate the stigma around mental illness."

Seven other individuals will be recognized alongside Henson at the ceremony, each awarded the AARP Purpose Prize and a $50,000 grant for their organizations. These honorees include Jon Elden of After Innocence, Robert Elkin of March to the Polls, and Renee Fluker of Midnight Golf Program. AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins commended the awardees for creating impactful solutions improving the way people live and age, and for addressing urgent social issues with their expertise and dedication. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

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