for She Ready Foundation
Melissa Etheridge performed onstage during She Ready Foundation Honors to support youth impacted by foster care. (photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images)

The She Ready Foundation honored entertainer Melissa Etheridge, philanthropist Suzan Hughes and writer-director Antwone Fisher during its annual She Ready Honors event on June 1 in Beverly Hills, hosted by actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish.

Founded by Haddish, the She Ready Foundation supports young people impacted by foster care through programs focused on education, employment and life skills. The event brought together advocates, philanthropists and entertainers to recognize individuals whose work aligns with the organization’s mission.

California is home to more foster children than any other state, according to information provided by the foundation. The organization cited challenges facing transition-age foster youth, including unemployment, food insecurity and barriers to educational and career opportunities.

Etheridge received the Inspiration Award, Hughes was presented with the Heart & Humanity Award and Fisher received the Hero Award. Fisher, a former foster youth whose life story inspired the memoir and film “Antwone Fisher,” was also recognized following the release of his new book, “Reflections Beneath the Buckeye Trees: Notes from a Life.”

During the program, Fisher delivered a tribute to actor Bruce Willis for his support of foster youth. The evening also included a live auction led by Haddish and comedian Dulcé Sloan, featuring experiences and travel packages that raised funds for the foundation’s programs.

Etheridge performed songs including “Rise” from her latest album and her hit “Come to My Window.”

Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, who represents California’s 26th Assembly District, and Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan, who represents the 55th Assembly District, presented Haddish with a resolution recognizing the work of the She Ready Foundation.

Some of the evening’s most personal moments came from She Ready Foundation Fellows Sade Leahy and Kyshawna Johnson, who spoke about their experiences in the organization’s paid internship program and Life Leadership Academy. Their remarks highlighted the impact of mentorship, workforce development and support services on young people transitioning from foster care.

For information, visit shereadyfoundation.org.