Q&A: Porsche Foxx
(1) Tell us a little about yourself.
Born in Kansas City, Mo., I am the oldest of three girls. Raised by two beautiful, hard-working parents, my mom was very nurturing and dad was adventurous and loved the outdoors. Our house was one of the most popular on the block – Mom made sure everyone was fed and was in the house after dark. I truly believe that’s where I got a lot of my need to care for others. I’ve carried this sense of community into my adult life, founding the Porsche Foxx Community Force (PFCF) in Atlanta. The success of this program is helped by my profession as a radio and television personality. Of course, what we put out into the world comes back to us; and, to that end, I am humbled and blessed to have been recognized in Atlanta and the state of Georgia: each June 6th is Porsche Foxx Day was declared and I was also honored to be named to the list of “Atlanta’s Top 100 Black Women of Influence.”
I’m sure God often laughs at our plans. My path didn’t initially include being on air. I grew up wanting to be a pediatrician. After graduating from high school, I went to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff on a music scholarship for alto saxophone. But, I’ve always had a special love for kids and wanted to learn everything I could to keep them healthy. (This is just one of the reasons that led me to found the PFCF.)
After taking a part-time job in radio while still in college it was love at first broadcast! I began to attract opportunities from other radio stations including Houston, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Atlanta.
My career in radio for over 20 years has truly been an unforgettable blessed journey!
(2) What caused you to get involved with the Atlanta Metro Community and what inspires you to make a difference?
Playing great music and interviewing some of the entertainments biggest stars was great, but it was never enough for me. Remember, my mom instilled in me a strong sense of giving back to my community. So, I found a way to utilize the airwaves and the public recognition I received to help people in need: spearheading countless fundraisers, including Hosea Williams Food Drive, 28-Hour Coat and Toy Drive, Disaster Relief Fund with Cingular Wireless, among others. Annually, I’ve filled school buses with supplies for young students in need and raised over $900,000 in funds, benefiting various charitable causes throughout the Atlanta Metro Community.
This passion to make a difference in the community inspired me to found the “PORSCHE FOXX COMMUNITY FORCE” (PFCF) in 2002. The PFCF’s ultimate initiative aims to revitalize neighborhoods and communities by strengthening families, fostering healthy children, and inspiring hope in the region’s young people. The organization creates partnerships between businesses, educational institutions and community-based organizations throughout the Atlanta region. The PFCF enhances and restores communities and – appropriately – gives everyone in the community a “voice” that brings about measurable, positive change … one neighborhood at a time.
(3) Describe how a mentor or someone you look up to has helped you mold your life.
My mentor taught me to appreciate and strive for self growth no matter how high you climb or how much money you make. Stay hungry and treasure people who love you unconditionally.
(4) What makes you happy?
I love a peaceful environment working hard, getting results and gathering with family and friends.
(5) If you had $1million, what would you do with it?
Invest and make some repairs on my Mom’s house.
(6) What type of music do you listen to, and what song will make you get up and dance?
I love all music! It’s not just a job to me. Two of my favorite songs are “All I Wanna Do Is Have Some Fun” by Sheryl Crowe and “More Bounce” by Zapp, which makes me want to dance!
(7) What are 3 things we would find in your refrigerator?
Fresh basil, ground turkey and red onion.
(8) What has made you as successful as you are?
Staying humble, keeping my faith and never giving up!
(9) How do you define success?
Good health, sanity and strong spirituality as well as family and friends I love and who love me in return.
(10) Any decisions that you’ve made that you’ve regretted?
Although I may not feel good about all of my decisions, I believe they are all part of my journey.
(11) What do you like to do on the weekend?
I like the park, fishing, festivals, good food and spending time with Dynzel, my apricot poodle.
(12) What is your ideal vacation?
I love visiting other countries and experiencing different cultures.
(13) What were some of your favorite childhood memories?
Going to the circus, fishing with my dad, helping my mom cook and licking batter off the beaters as well as family vacations.
(14) Do you have any superstitions?
No
(15) How would your best friend describe you?
Adventurous, a little bit hyper, loving, loyal and generous to a fault.
