Independent, intense, inspiring. Descriptions of Kid Rock the man and Kid Rock the acclaimed singer-songwriter share a common thread. Add to the list generous and patriotic, especially when describing Kid Rock the philanthropist.
Known around the world for his musical prowess, he has sold more than 25 million records since his debut more than a decade ago. Kid Rock has always approached life on his own terms, with a singular style defined by great gusto and a steely determination to create memorable music while staying connected to his familial and communal roots. It is a balancing act tried by many but one at which only a few succeed. When one does, though, as Kid Rock has, the impact is far reaching.
Having made a mark on the world of music, he now embraces the opportunity to act as a community leader and is committed to use his position of influence to raise money for causes important to him and his fans through personal appearances, sponsored events and other fundraising activities.
Kid Rock is one of the country's most ardent supporters of the United States military, for example. He works closely with Operation Homefront, the USO and Operation Happy Note, among other organizations, whose missions are to assist armed forces members and their families. As well, he regularly visits service members and performs for troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan, Italy, Spain and Kosovo.
In 2009, he established the Made in Detroit Endowed Scholarship through Wayne State University in Detroit to help offset tuition costs of students from throughout southeastern Michigan who are selected for their academic achievements and limited financial resources.
Further, Kid Rock works closely with The Rainbow Connection to help fulfill wishes of children in Michigan who have life-threatening illnesses, as well as the Detroit-based Karmanos Cancer Institute to raise money for research and patient care, and in 2009 he and his Twisted Brown Trucker band performed at a charity concert in New York City to benefit The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function which studies how music can be used therapeutically.
In 2008 Kid Rock brought his philanthropy efforts together when he established the Kid Rock Foundation, a Michigan-based 501(c) 3, whose mission, like his music, is broad and far-reaching. With an all-volunteer staff and operating expenses of less than ten percent, the foundation raises funds for and provides resources to other non-profit organizations across Michigan and around the country, especially those working to aid disadvantaged children, victims of war and natural disasters, and those suffering from illness.
One of the foundation's earliest and most notable projects was its 2009 fundraiser for Operation Homefront. Fifty cents from every ticket sold to select shows of Kid Rock's "Rock 'N Rebels" concert tour hosted by Jim Beam more than $250,000 was donated to Operation Homefront and its efforts to provide emergency financial aid and critical assistance to United States troops, their families and wounded veterans.
Going forward Kid Rock and the Kid Rock Foundation are dedicated to making great music, taking great strides and greatly enhancing lives.
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