Haute 100 Update: Diddy’s Donation Saves Harlem Boys and Girls Clubs

The Boys and Girls Club of Harlem was in danger of going broke and closing down – until rap mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs stepped in, that is. The music icon donated $60,000 to keep the sports and tutoring programs going at the center located in his old neighborhood.

Combs, who has risen to immense success, lived in Harlem until he was 12. The philanthropic artist recognized the club’s needs and was happy to help. “Being from Harlem, I heard they needed help, and I wanted to help,” he said. “This is something that I am proud to do.”

The club has an important mission in the inner city neighborhoods to keep kids off the streets and away from dangerous activities like gang involvement and drugs. Combs added, “There is usually a bigger issue to what kids are going through. Most kids want a way out.”

Combs received news of the club’s need for assistance through an employee of his who is friends with Willie Bentley, one of the club’s board members. “The contribution puts the club in a good place for the time being,” Bentley said with gratitude.

Diddy’s donation will help pay for math and reading tutors, basketball games, and gym classes for over 3,000 youths who attend the four Boys and Girls Club locations throughout Harlem.

Our Haute 100 list details the accomplishments of the most influential people in each of our markets. To see the entire Haute 100 Miami list, click here.