December 13, 2005

Ludacris and United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Raising Public Awareness

The Ludacris Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) have launched a new public awareness campaign to educate the public about the increasing disability rate in minority communities.  According to United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) about 764,000 people have cerebral palsy in the United States, and about 9,500 infants and pre-school age children are diagnosed with the condition each year.

Supporting individuals with cerebral palsy is a cause very close to Ludacris' heart.  Last year during prom season, Ludacris arrived in Springfield, Massachusetts to escort the 17-year-old senior from Central High School, Ruje'anne Duplessis, to her prom held at Chez Joseph. Ms. Duplessis is a huge fan of the Atlanta-based rapper. She owns all of his CDs, but was never able to attend any of his concerts because many venues are not accessible for people with disabilities - Ms. Duplessis was born with spastic Cerebral Palsy.  However, through The Ludacris Foundation's "Stand Up Initiative," the Central High School senior proved to be the envy of her prom.  Ruje'anne arrived at her prom on the arm of the hottest date of all - - renowned hip-hop artist Ludacris.  It was an event that teenage girls only dream about.

This is not the first time Ludacris has been there in support of his fans. The Ludacris foundation's “Stand Up Initiative” provides gifts, outings, and surprise visits to children and adults living with disabilities. Ms. Roberta Shields, president of the Ludacris Foundation, receives thousands of requests from across the country every year. However, it was Ms. Duplessis' letter that stood out. "This initiative was developed to encourage people of all ages to Stand-up no matter what and live life to the fullest" said Ludacris.

“When I think about our goal for the 'Stand Up Initiative' I believe that Ruje'anne's letter embodies our intent for the program. Ruje'anne stands up in the face of adversity… she stands tall in a world of challenges,” remarked Ms. Shields.

As a special tribute, Ludacris features Ruje'anne on the UCP public service announcement entitled "Dream."

View the PSA  (Windows Media)  |   UCP Press Release