Common started the Common Ground Foundation as a way to give back to the community, and to allow our youth to realize their full potential. As an artist, he has been blessed with opportunity and good fortune and has had the chance to witness so much that the world has to offer. The Common Ground Foundation is dedicated to the empowerment and development of urban youth in the United States through the arts and education. Additionally, our support and focus on AIDS/HIV prevention programs targeted toward youth and young adults reach beyond our national borders and serve communities throughout Africa.

In addition to supporting his own foundation, Common offers a younger generation a better understanding of self respect and love, utilizing the cultural relevance of hip-hop, in the children’s books he has written. The first one, entitled The MIRROR and ME, teaches lessons of life, the human spirit, and human nature. His follow-up book I LIKE YOU But I LOVE ME was recently nominated for an NAACP Image Award, and his third book, M.E. (Mixed Emotions), will be out later this year.

Furthermore, Common supports other community needs organizations, such as Keep A Child Alive, (RED) Campaign, Hurricane Katrina Relief and Project Brotherhood, through special performances, and acting as campaign spokesperson or panel speaker, as well as making personal financial contributions.