Kemba Smith Foundation

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The Kemba Smith Foundation is an American charitable organization which aims to raise awareness of certain social issues, including drug abuse, violence, AIDS, teenage pregnancy, and abuse. It was founded by Kemba Smith, an ex-felon who was pardoned by President Bill Clinton.

[edit] The foundation

Some of the objectives of the Kemba Smith Foundation include:

to work toward the elimination of prejudice and discrimination in neighborhoods, and combat juvenile delinquency.
to implement real life stories into forums that are examples to young people about the detrimental affects of bad decisions and inappropriate conduct.

[edit] Kemba Smith

While attending Hampton University, Kemba became involved with a drug dealer who "was a major figure in a $4 million crack cocaine ring".^{[citation needed]} She became physically, mentally, and emotionally abused. Kemba was sentenced to 24½ years in prison, seving 6½ years before President Clinton's order of clemency. During her stay in prison, Kemba gave birth to a son.

Kemba is currently an avid speaker on the right of ex-felons and is working in the state of Virginia to reinstate their power to vote, serve on a jury and run for public office. Kemba graduated from Virginia Union University with a Bachelor's in Social Work and plans to attend Law School in the near future.

"Her story has been featured on Nightline, Court TV, The Early Morning Show and host of other television programs. Along with several publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, Glamour , People, and Essence magazines." ^[1] Kemba has also received numerous awards while fighting for the rights of ex-cons and educating the public on topics related to drug policies. Kemba also educates the public on current justice laws and the criminal system. She is currently involved in a tour sponsored by Proctor and Gamble's Tampax "Totally You Tour".