Future's Freewishes Foundation Opens STEAM Lab In Atlanta

Future is all about the future of the next generation.

This time, Atlanta rapper Future will be investing in STEAM. Officially, Future’s Freewishes Foundation has opened up a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) lab in Atlanta, according to AfroTech.

The “I Am a Dreamer” lab had its soft opening in partnership with 2K Foundations, the philanthropic arm of 2K that supports and inspires underserved communities by investing directly in local enrichment programs.

2K Foundations has previously teamed up with the likes of LeBron James’ I Promise School, Devin Booker, Damian Lillard and more.

“It’s important that all students receive access to STEAM education regardless of their background,” Future stated in a press release according to AfroTech. “Our Freewishes Foundation, with the support of the 2K Foundations, has helped make this possible in our Atlanta community. We’re thankful for their commitment to support our initiative.”

Additionally, the lab is located close to where Future grew up.

What’s the mission? The mission is to “close the educational gap for students in underserved communities so they have access to STEAM education as well as resources and tools.” And Freewishes Foundation combats barriers for kids and young adults in Atlanta.

"We are creating a science technology, engineering, art, and mathematics lab as an extension of Freewishes educational initiative, Tia Wilburn, Freewishes' executive director and Future’s sister, said. “We wanted to add art because both Future and I support creativity.

“Our objective in providing educational opportunities is to ensure inclusive and quality education for all students, regardless of income and background. There is a major gap in STEM education that impacts marginalized communities, and we want to close that gap so that no child is left behind.”

In addition to STEAM, Freewishes Foundations provides the following programs: wellness, digital literacy, meals, housing, among others, according to freewishes.org.

Future isn’t a stranger to giving back. Just last year, Future invested in renovating Columbia High School – his alma mater – with an upgraded weight room, according to fox5atlanta.com.

Wilburn said it’s all about health and wellness.

"Since our foundation is very big on health and wellness it was important for us to help create an environment for students in which they could be comfortable, have pride, and perform their best,” Wilburn said. “Also, research shows that students who are physically active tend to excel academically, and have better attendance. They are less likely to struggle with depression and other mental health issues.”