The Enduring Impact of Usher Raymond IV
Usher Raymond IV has dedicated over 30 years to captivating the world with his electrifying songs and signature dance moves. However, a less-known but equally significant part of his life involves leveraging his massive success to champion the success of young people.
When Usher was just 20 years old, he joined forces with his mother, Jonnetta Patton, to launch a groundbreaking initiative. On June 17, 1999, they co-founded the nonprofit organization, Usher’s New Look (UNL). The foundational goal was straightforward yet profound: to assist young individuals in discovering their unique “spark.” Usher noted that he was fortunate to find his passion early on and felt compelled to extend that same opportunity to other youth.
Two Decades of Transformation and Investment
For more than 25 years, Usher’s New Look has been a powerful force in youth development, boasting a reach of over 60,000 young people. According to tax filings reviewed by Stay Inspired News, the nonprofit has strategically invested over $29 million in programs designed to foster learning, personal growth, and long-term success. These impactful initiatives include specialized leadership conferences, practical workshops, and crucial mentoring sessions, extending their reach to youth in major U.S. cities like Atlanta, New York, Milwaukee, and Detroit, as well as various global communities.
Financial Stewardship and Measurable Results
Each year, Usher’s New Look publishes a comprehensive donor impact report, which transparently details the allocation of its funds. The 2023 report highlighted a diverse revenue stream: 63% was sourced from corporate partners, 21% from foundations, and approximately 10% from generous individual donors. That same year, the organization allocated substantial resources: roughly $1.3 million was directed toward core youth programs, with an additional $365,000 spent on fundraising efforts and $145,000 covering administrative costs. These figures represent more than just financial transactions; they embody the opportunities given to students who have learned vital skills in leadership, financial management, effective communication, and aspirational goal-setting.
The Roots of Usher’s Philanthropic Vision
Usher’s journey began in Dallas, Texas, before he spent his formative years in Chattanooga, Tennessee. At the age of 12, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, with his family to vigorously pursue a career in music. His early experience singing in his church choir showed him firsthand the transformative power of believing in young talent. This early support system profoundly shaped his career trajectory and ultimately inspired him to establish Usher’s New Look as a vehicle for paying that support forward.
Leading the Charge: Growth and Expansion
Careshia Moore joined the foundation in 2012, later serving as the 3rd President and CEO from 2018 to 2024. Moore was instrumental in scaling the nonprofit’s reach to more young people nationwide. She has emphasized that Usher’s New Look is committed to providing young people with opportunities that not only broaden their thinking but also illuminate clear pathways to personal and professional success. Moore is also recognized as the co-author of Raising America: A Visual Celebration of Educators, alongside Chantel Jiroch.
Fostering Essential Life Skills
Usher’s New Look manages several robust programs focused on imparting essential life skills, leadership training, and career readiness. These initiatives empower students to make informed decisions regarding their academic pursuits, careers, and community engagement. Key components also include education on sound money management and personal development. Since 2020, UNL has successfully hosted its annual “Disruptivator Summit.”
A Proven Pathway to Post-Secondary Success
One of the most impressive achievements of Usher’s New Look is its dedication to preparing students for life after high school. The foundation proudly reports that 100% of participants in its high school Leadership Academy successfully graduate, with approximately 98% advancing to college. Of those continuing their education, an astounding 86% are first-generation college students. These remarkable statistics unequivocally demonstrate the organization’s significant and measurable impact.
Financial Literacy: Equipping Future Leaders
In 2017, a $1.5 million grant from the Truist Foundation enabled Usher’s New Look to integrate a crucial financial literacy component into its youth programs. Neil La-Mothe, a former program participant from New York City, shared how impactful this experience was: “Usher’s New Look has always pushed me to strive for the best and expect nothing less.” La-Mothe went on to graduate magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in economics from John Jay College in 2024 and now dedicates his time to helping college students and other young adults grasp the complexities of financial markets.
The Ripple Effect of Finding Your Spark
The mission of UNL creates a powerful ripple effect: when one student successfully finds their spark, they often inspire those around them. The young people who come through Usher’s New Look programs become agents of positive change, carrying their leadership and skills back to their schools, neighborhoods, and cities.
Usher’s True Legacy
While Usher’s career has brought him global fame, countless awards, and immense commercial success, his work through Usher’s New Look showcases the true meaning of using success for the greater good. Many celebrities donate to existing charities, but Usher meticulously built an enduring organization that continues to give back and uplift lives year after year.
“I was blessed to find my spark early in life. Being able to immerse myself in what I loved to do was a great way for me to channel my passions. I wanted to provide those same opportunities for other youth,” Usher reflected in a 2020 interview with Spotify for Artists.
Usher’s decades-long commitment to service has profoundly touched the lives of thousands of young people. What started as a simple idea has blossomed into something far more significant than his music, a foundation that continues to help young people build demonstrably brighter futures.