The Giving Gives On With Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson is many things — actress, music artist, producer, mom, and our personal favorite? — philanthropist! She’s a supporter of countless causes, including the Boys & Girls Club of America and Make-a-Wish Foundation, her most personal being the Julian D. King Gift Foundation, an organization she and her sister established. An example to us all of how to Give On, we’re inspired by her commitment to creating good in the world every day.
Between December 1 and December 12, Kendra Scott will donate 20% of the purchase price of each Madelyn Gold Statement Earrings in Multi Mix to the Julian D. King Fund of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Get Jennifer’s look.
Plus, learn more about Jennifer in our exclusive interview below, including all things holiday and how she Gives On in her own life (and you can too!).
What are three things bringing you joy right now?
My kid, my cats, and the holidays.
Fill in the blank: The holidays are...
The best time of the year!
How are you personally Giving On this season?
I like to give joy, which can come in many forms. To spread love is also a form of giving, so I try to help others wherever I see a need.
What are you wearing and gifting from Kendra Scott this winter?
The Madelyn Statement Earrings! Oh my goodness, I love them so much! I find them so joyous — holiday décor can come in many different ways and looks. You could have a winter wonderland Christmas, or you could have a more festive, colorful “Santa Claus” Christmas. The Madelyn Earrings feel just like a “Santa Claus” Christmas to me. I love them. I feel like they give the more traditional look a modern twist or a spark.
How does your holiday style differ from the everyday?
It depends. If I’m in the house, my style is much more cozy and comfortable — snuggled up with socks, hot chocolate, and tons of blankets — but when I go out, it’s much more sparkly. I like to shine and play with sparkles and other things like that to celebrate the holiday season.
20% of proceeds from your giveback event will benefit the Julian D. King Gift Foundation you established with your sister. How will these proceeds be used?
The proceeds will go to the Julian D. King Gift Foundation, which will aid our efforts to give back to the youth of my hometown of Chicago by granting some of their Christmas wishes. If we’re blessed enough to be able to take our efforts outside of Chicago, the same would be open to anyone that may be in need this holiday season.
Why do you think Giving On is especially important during the holidays?
Giving On is not only giving but encouraging others to give as well. The more people who give back and are kind with their time, the more people we can bless and spread love to.
Do you have any holiday traditions, and are there any you hope your son will continue when he’s older?
I hope he continues with the Julian D. King Gift Foundation — he is a giver at heart. When the holidays come around, his first thought is always about what to get others, and I just hope he continues to have a heart focused on giving that he will eventually instill in children of his own, as well.
Is there a moment, occasion, or feeling that defines this season for you?
There are so many moments and memories that we create throughout the holiday season. One of the things I love to do is help people find their holiday spirit at this time of year. Also, Christmas music really holds a special place for me. It may sound cliché, but being home and with family and loved ones is what I’m most appreciative of; when we’re able to be close and show our love for one another.
What’s your favorite holiday indulgence?
Giving!!! I’m a giver all year round, but I really do indulge in people’s joy during this time of year. Being able to be a part of that for people is healing for my family and me. That’s why we started the Julian D. King Gift Foundation in the first place. Seeing people experience joy and happiness can be healing.
What’s one easy way each of us can Give On in our own lives?
It’s easy to give as long as you want to give. That can be different for each person, but whatever that means to you, having the heart to want to give and then finding that thing to get involved with and give to is the perfect way to start. For me, it was the Julian D. King Gift Foundation, but every little bit counts and makes a difference in someone’s life, no matter where you put your time and efforts. It doesn’t have to be a material thing either; just simple gestures of kindness and love can make all the difference to someone. The most important thing to remember is to make an effort to Give On.