August 16, 2012

By Jennifer Bihm

Assistant Editor

 

Hundreds of people braved the sweltering heat Saturday for a chance to get a glimpse at celebs like Nick Cannon, New Boyz, and the Wonder Broz, and to score much needed school supplies at the third annual NCredible Entertainment/ Home Depot back to school concert and giveaway, held at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza. The crowd remained enthusiastic despite 90 something degree weather as they enjoyed performances and waited for backpacks and raffle prizes. Cannon, NCredible owner and event host credits his own school challenges as his inspiration.

 

“I was an underprivileged youth who didn’t always get an opportunity to [get everything I needed],” he said.

 

“During those low times when someone did give back, it meant a lot to me. [And], I’ve always believed to whom much is given, much is expected.”

 

Because, he said, every first day of school is memorable. It’s a day for putting “your fresh gear” together and getting focused on the year ahead. But for some, being able to come to class with basics like paper and pencil is often a struggle.

 

Not being prepared for school can often affect self-esteem, can cause students to fall behind in school and can cause frustration with the whole school experience. According to the National Center for Children in Poverty, being poor can also contribute to behavioral problems and affect mental health.

 

“Research is clear that poverty is the single greatest threat to children’s well-being,” they said.

 

Students who got an orange wristband Saturday won’t have to be unprepared, as they got Jansport brand backpacks filled with a variety of quality notebooks and folders. Those lucky enough to get winning raffle tickets received high-end prizes like shoes and some of the latest technological gadgets. As the day wore on, smaller prizes like t-shirts and movie tickets were randomly distributed.

 

“It’s fellowship,” said Cannon, describing the event.

 

“It’s a positive thing where people can come out and congregate together in a safe environment.”

 

Concert performers also included up and coming artists Forever and The Rangers.

Category: Arts & Culture