During last week’s NAACP Image Awards Ceremony, Ford Motor Company and the NAACP presented musician and philanthropist Wyclef Jean with the first-ever Ford Vanguard Award. The honor is given to an individual who has contributed to aiding in and raising awareness of pertinent social issues. Ford stated that they are cognizant of Wyclef’s humanitarian efforts. “He has brought the national spotlight to Haiti and is working to continuously save and transform the lives of the thousands of people who are suffering,” said the company. “We are proud to partner with the NAACP Image Awards in presenting this coveted award.”

In support of Hip Hop efforts, Ford also presented a check to Common‘s non-profit foundation, Common Ground, which is geared towards empowering youth in urban communities through the teaching of life skills. “Ford remains comitted to providing the educational resources people need to realize their dreams,” the company said in a statement.

The NAACP Image Awards aired on Feb. 26. on FOX.