In 1991, Steve Harvey was living in his Ford Tempo with just $35 in his pocket. Today, the television host and comedian supports young people through charitable work, with his foundation awarding more than $700,000 in college scholarships. Years later, an unexpected invitation to perform on New York’s famous Showtime at the Apollo helped change his career. Harvey’s journey from a struggling stand-up comedian to a philanthropist reflects the work of the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation. The organisation was established to support young people from underserved communities and single parents across the United States.
Its main initiatives include the Steve Harvey Mentoring Program for Young Men and Marjorie Harvey’s Girls Who Rule The World, according to the organisation’s published materials. “This program helps young men realize their potential and envision and prepare for a robust and productive future,” the foundation explained on its official about page. Alongside its financial support for college students, the foundation runs programmes focused on young people’s development, leadership skills and mental wellbeing. The young men’s programme teaches personal responsibility, leadership and the value of positive role models. Through organised camps and follow-up activities, participants meet business leaders, educators and community mentors who can guide them as they prepare for adulthood. “SHMP aims to break the misguided traits of manhood and introduce role models who provide positive examples of manhood. The Girls Who Rule The World programme offers similar guidance to young women. Its focus includes building self-confidence, supporting academic achievement, providing career advice and introducing participants to different cultures and experiences. The foundation also runs enrichment workshops for single mothers. These sessions offer practical advice on managing money, maintaining emotional wellbeing and making parenting decisions. The aim is to help parents raise their children while dealing with difficult personal and financial circumstances. Through scholarships, mentoring camps and community programmes, the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation continues to support young people and families across North America. Its work brings together educational assistance, personal guidance and practical resources for people seeking better opportunities.