Rapper, actor and activist Common couldn't resist performing at his own event Saturday night. His foundation aims to instill leadership qualities in disadvantaged young people.
In addition to Angelou, other honorees included actress and singer Keke Palmer, business leader Dee Robinson Reid and actress and ABC's "The View" co-host Sherri Shepherd.
"I just think the fact that Common has gotten Dr. Angelou and Keke Palmer and so many people here is a testament to his character and his integrity," Shepherd said.
"Everybody loves Common. I call his rap poetry rap, 'cause what he says is so, you feel it when he says it, you know? So I think it's great what he's doing now. I love to be part of it," Palmer said.
"You got the red carpet and the cameras going, but it's about really being able to touch down with the youth, really being able to leave an impression and be able to empower them," Common said.
Money raised Saturday night will provide support for the Common Ground Foundation's programming goals and will help expand its reach. ABC7's Cheryl Burton emceed the event.
