Shawn Mendes announced Wednesday he is launching an eponymous foundation.
“I’m so excited to launch The Shawn Mendes Foundation,” the Canadian singer said, in a release. “For a long time, I’ve wanted to find a way to amplify the causes that my fans and I care deeply about, and to help make the voices of our generation heard.
“My goal in launching the Foundation is to work alongside my fans, and do everything I can to help provide them with a platform that inspires positive change, and empowers young change-makers.”
The Shawn Mendes Foundation (SMF) is launching with $1 million U.S. that has been raised through partnerships and donations. Its first two campaigns will support the SickKids Charitable Giving Fund in Toronto and REVERB, a Maine-based organization that helps artists reduce their environmental footprint on tour and to engage fans at music events to create positive change.
SMF hopes to support youth-oriented causes ranging from mental health and wellness to anti-bullying and education. Mendes has previously supported organizations like Pencils of Promise, WE Day, March For Our Lives and the American Red Cross.