On December 18, 2024, GloRilla made a heartfelt return to her roots at Melrose High School in Memphis, where she donated $25,000 to transform the school’s library into a state-of-the-art media center. The new space will be named the Gloria H. Woods Media Center, after GloRilla’s real name, marking a full-circle moment for the artist who once walked the halls of Melrose High.
Reflecting on her own school days, GloRilla expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back to her community, saying, “So the fact that I have the ability to do it now, it warms my heart.” Her donation is poised to make a lasting impact on the education and experiences of Melrose students.
The $25,000 donation will be invested in several initiatives:
- $5,000 for comfortable seating, allergen-free carpets, and décor to create a creative and collaborative media center.
- $5,000 for updated learning software, ensuring students have access to modern research tools.
- $5,000 for Glo Bucks, a rewards program to encourage good grades, attendance, and positive behavior.
- $5,000 for the GloRilla Mentorship Program, offering field trips and personal development, with Glo herself providing feedback through video chats.
- $2,500 for the Melrose Clothes Closet, which will offer clothing and toiletries for students in need.
- $2,500 for the Office of Family Engagement, which aims to strengthen the school’s connection to students’ families.
During her visit, GloRilla shared a nostalgic moment, posing in front of a trophy case and recreating a photo from her time as a student. This gesture not only symbolized how far she’s come but also reinforced her dedication to giving back to the community that helped shape her.
The new Gloria H. Woods Media Center is set to be unveiled next summer, offering Melrose students a brighter future. GloRilla’s donation is not just a financial contribution but also a message of hope and a blueprint for creating opportunities for others.
In addition to this philanthropic gesture, GloRilla has had an outstanding year in the music world. Time Magazine recognized her song “TGIF” as the Best Song of the Year, further cementing her place in the music industry while continuing to inspire her community.