We knew we loved Common for a reason.  Besides, of course, the music, the swagger and the breath of fresh air that he always seems to be.  Like a lot of celebrities, he started a charitable foundation.  Unlike most of said foundations, this one actually seems active, effective and real.  In fact, a Common Ground Foundation benefit concert featuring Talib Kweli, will.i.am, The Roots and, of course, Common, was just held in Chicago.  The Common Ground Foundation is dedicated to empowering urban youth in an effort to BupGrade our People from the ground up.  As thorough as Common’s lyrics, it consists of programs such as “BE Empowered”, a mentoring program, and “Read for Change”, a literacy initiative that includes “The Corner”, an online book club for 8th-12th graders, whose members have the opportunity to not only meet Common, but also interview a designated celebrity of the month.  Want to get involved?  Do the usual and donate, or actually give the kids something more valuable: your time, example and attention.  We love to see Hip-Hop grown up, doing well, and giving back—it kind of reminds us of ourselves.  So go ahead and kick the truth to the young Black youth.  Visit The Common Ground Foundation for more information or to donate or volunteer.