The King’s Trust celebrated its new name and expansion in the United States with a star-studded gala in New York City. Despite being unable to attend due to health concerns, Prince Charles sent a statement expressing his commitment to helping young people around the world build essential skills for employment. Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lionel Richie, a longtime supporter of the charity, reassured Charles that they would continue their work together in the future. The Prince’s Trust, founded in 1976 by Prince Charles, has expanded its education and employment initiatives to 25 countries, including the United States.
The gala in New York City was attended by famous supporters of The King’s Trust, including singers Sam Smith and John Legend, supermodels Kate Moss, Emily Ratajkowski, and Ashley Graham, as well as actor Dominic West, who portrayed Charles in “The Crown.” Actress Michaela Jae Rodriguez, who plays a philanthropist on a TV show, emphasized the importance of supporting young people’s aspirations, including those supported by The King’s Trust. The charity’s CEO in the USA, Victoria Gore, highlighted the organization’s methodical approach to expansion, focusing on collaboration and meeting specific needs in communities like New York, Chicago, and Detroit.
The King’s Trust USA has launched initiatives like the Enterprise Challenge in The Bronx, focusing on education and job training for young adults. The organization plans to introduce programs like Get Hired job fairs and Development Awards grants to further support participants in their job search. The impact of The King’s Trust programs is already evident in cities like Chicago, where a teenage participant, Nakya Weeks, found inspiration and support through the Enterprise Challenge. Nakya’s mother, Terry Lee, expressed gratitude for the positive influence the charity has had on her daughter, helping her pursue her dreams and stay focused on her education and career goals.
According to Michael De Roeck, head of programs at The King’s Trust, American young people may not initially connect with the British royal family’s involvement in the charity, but they see the value of the programs once they experience their impact. The organization’s expansion in the US aims to provide meaningful support to young people in need, helping them build skills and access resources for employment and education. The charity’s work aligns with its mission to empower the next generation and create opportunities for success. The collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc., ensures continued coverage of philanthropy and nonprofit efforts, highlighting the positive impact of initiatives like The King’s Trust.
