Carol Maraj mother of pop-star Nicki Minaj, Gospel Singer and Founder of Carol Maraj Foundation is ready for her time in the spotlight, but perhaps her biggest passion is giving back. Carol, who resides in New York City, has been taking her hometown by storm with her new hit single “God’s Been Good”, which is steadily climbing the gospel charts. Her devotion and commitment to religion, unity and uplifting can not only be seen through her music, but also through her humanitarian efforts. Having once been a victim of domestic violence, Carol knew in her heart that she must provide other victims like herself, a foundation that will help nurture their self esteem, build inner strength and and give hope of a better tomorrow. That foundation is the Carol Maraj Foundation.
BCG: Tell me more about Carol Maraj Foundation? How did it get started? What drives
your passion behind your charity?
Carol Maraj: The Carol Maraj Foundation (T.C.M.F) started in January of 2012, after having a heart to heart with some ladies in a shelter for Domestic Violence. Their touching stories brought me back to a place of pain, confusion and fear. I left there convinced that I had to become an advocate for women affected by this crime.
BCG: What annual events will the Carol Maraj FoundationList host to bring awareness/fund raise?
Carol Maraj: T.C.M.F will host its 3rd Annual Beauty for Ashes Banquet fund-raiser in October of 2014. The date is to be announced. The women from two selected shelters are treated like queens for that day. This includes spa, and makeovers, followed by dining and entertainment.
BCG: What is the target age group/demographics that the Carol Maraj Foundation
List supports?
Carol Maraj: The foundation provides preventive counseling/workshops to groups from Junior High School through College. We have been concentrating on areas where there is a high percentage of abused, battered and the socially displaced however, we are open to visiting shelters and schools throughout the U.S.
BCG: How can others get involved with your cause within their local
communities?
Carol Maraj: I am open to new involvements and collaborations from different organizations. Please contact us via email at carolmarajfoundation@gmail.com
BCG: What final words of wisdom would you’d like to share with our readers?
Carol Maraj: It is important to educate our selves and our young people on the signs and characteristics of the potential abuser because abuse, if overlooked, can lead to fatality. This incomparable gift of life should be cherished moment by moment.
BCG: Our mantra here at BCG is Giving is Good, in your words, why is giving back good?
Carol Maraj: Giving back is good, because it allows me to reflect on where I came from and
It also brings great gratification to see lives changed and a hope renewed.
BCG: Anything additional you’d like to add?
Carol Maraj: My single, ‘God’s been Good’ is now on Itunes. It is faith building and inspiring. Downloading the song would help bring awareness to D.V. as a portion of proceeds would be used for such.
To learn more about Carol and her efforts to support victims of domestic violence as well as her music visit www.carolmaraj.com.
