Taraji P. Henson is the recipient of AARP’s honorary purpose award

Emmy Award-winning actress and philanthropist Taraji P. Henson will receive an honorary AARP Purpose Prize for her dedication to promoting mental wellness and providing mental health resources within marginalized communities through the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF).

On Oct. 1, Henson and her organization will be recognized during an in-person celebration hosted by AARP, the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to empowering Americans ages 50 and older. “We are proud to honor our AARP Purpose Award winners, who are using their lifelong experience to not only fulfill their own purpose in life, but to create new solutions for the way people live and age and solve pressing societal problems,” AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins said in a news release. Henson’s work through BLHF reflects AARP’s mission to support American families as they advocate for “what matters most… health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.”

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation was founded in 2018 to honor the legacy of Henson’s father, who battled mental health issues after his service in the Vietnam War. Along with her friend, Tracie Jade Jenkins, the “Hidden Figures” actress created the organization to address the unique needs of communities of color.

“As a pioneering force in Black mental health advocacy, BLHF is dedicated to empowering people to embrace their history and heritage,” the BLHF website states. “Together, we are working toward a future where mental health thrives in Black communities, empowering people to prioritize their well-being and access the care they deserve.”

BLHF offers referrals to culturally competent therapies, wellness resources, impact programs, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives to destigmatize mental health in marginalized communities. As mentioned above, BLACK COMPANYIn 2023, BLHF partnered with Kate Spade to launch ‘She Care Wellness Pods,’ a first-of-its-kind wellness program created to provide frontline mental health resources for women and girls on HBCU campuses.

The author of “Around the Way Girl” will join seven 2025 Purpose Prize winners in Washington, D.C., including STEM NOLA Founder and CEO Calvin Mackie, Ph.D., as AARP celebrates the winners for their contributions and support in their communities. The winners will each receive $50,000 for their organizations.

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