Black Entertainment Television and UCP Send Rap Star Ludacris to the Prom
(June 3 - Agawam, MA) The Ludacris Foundation, Black Entertainment Television (BET), and UCP teamed up last Thursday to give 17-year-old Ruje’anne Duplessis the night of her life.
Duplessis, a high school senior with cerebral palsy, wrote BET for help to contact her dream prom date, Ludacris. BET passed on her letter to the Ludacris Foundation and UCP.
Though the Ludacris Foundation gets countless letters from around the country seeking the rap star’s time, Ruje’anne’s letter stood out.
"This particular letter really hit my heart," Ludacris told The Republican. "The prom is a very important part of a young lady's life. She is just like anybody else, except for the wheelchair."
Ludacris surprised the star-struck Duplessis and accompanied her to the Central High prom in Agawam, Massachusetts. He danced with Duplessis and performed for more than 300 ecstatic students.
Opening the door for possible future collaboration, Ludacris taped a public service announcement for UCP before attending the prom with Ruje'anne.
Stephen Bennett, UCP President and CEO, said, "Ludacris appeals to a very important audience for us and we are delighted to have him join us in our work."
UCP of Berkshire County will soon meet with Ruje’anne to help her find greater independence, as she prepares to attend college to study music industry production and management.
BET will broadcast a special segment about Ruje’anne’s date with Ludacris on Access Granted on June 15.