The Anthony family has been buzzing with milestones. After a long wait, on November 15th, the basketball world cheered for Kiyan Anthony’s decision to commit to Syracuse University, Carmelo Anthony’s alma mater. However, while Kiyan gears up for his college basketball journey, La La Anthony has decided to give back to those often overlooked, showcasing a side of gratitude that goes beyond the dinner table.

Just six days before Thanksgiving, La La Anthony spent her day at Rikers Island, a correctional facility. By sharing a picture of the Rikers Correction Department on her Instagram Story with the caption, “Thanksgiving on the island today, so grateful,” she reminded her followers of the importance of gratitude and service, especially during the holiday season.

The Perfect Find actress recently launched a program called ‘Three Sixty‘ aimed at providing scholarships and educational opportunities for incarcerated youth in the age group between 18-21 years at Rikers. Through scholarships, mentorship, and skills-based training, Three Sixty focuses on equipping participants with the tools they need to reintegrate into society successfully.

“It’s really amazing to see that when you take them out of jail and put them in the right environment, with the right opportunities and love and support, incredible things can happen,” said La La (as per People)

By partnering with Robert N. Davoren (RNDC) Complex and NYC Office of Probation, and educational institutions the program by La La provides access to higher education and vocational programs, giving these individuals a second chance to rewrite their narratives. The program also often partners with various New York Metropolitan Area businesses and restaurants to provide donations to the youth after they are released.

“At this age they are still so young. When you talk to them, especially if you have your own kids, you just become so much more compassionate. It feels like any one of our kids could be one bad decision away from being in a similar situation… We want them to be prepared with certain skills so they can really get out there and back into life and into the workforce after release,” added La La (as per People).

This new decision to spend this year’s Thanksgiving in a philanthropic way came just a few days after her son’s college decision to go to Syracuse. There, Carmelo Anthony famously led the Orange to an NCAA championship in 2003, and now, 20 years later, his son is set to take the court in the same iconic orange and blue after proving to the basketball world what he is capable of with his performances at Peach Jam, SLAM Summer Classic, and Top 100 Camp this summer.

In the end, as Kiyan prepares for his Syracuse journey and La La continues her transformative work, they remind us that true thanksgiving isn’t just about gratitude—it’s about creating opportunities for others to be grateful. However, this isn’t the only Thanksgiving that La La has spent doing philanthropic work.

La La Anthony’s visit to Rikers last year

La La Anthony has built an impressive career as an actress, producer, and media personality. However, beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, she has consistently used her platform for philanthropic efforts.

Just like this year, the 42-year-old brought her spirit of generosity to Rikers Island last year by hosting a heartfelt dinner as part of her mentorship program for incarcerated youth.

“I’m just excited that they got to bring some of their friends and family to share in a meal and just appreciate each other, love each other. Talk about what we’re grateful for,” said La La about her visit last year. A special visit means a special treat so the menu for Thanksgiving was also delightful featuring the traditional turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and cornbread.

This initiative was a success as the detainees present there were quite happy. “Before I got to the initiative, I didn’t really have nothing to look forward to, just going through my days. Now I’m here, I know that I wake up tomorrow, I get to see La La… I get to see a lot of loved ones here for me. It’s making my day a little bit easier,” said detainee Tristian Williams (as per Spectrum News).

Moreover, La La doesn’t go to Rikers during the holidays only but also brings her celebrity friends to share words of wisdom with young people ready to make a fresh new start. In the end, we can say that by blending compassion with action, La La Anthony continues to redefine what it means to give back.