Christopher Bridges, a.k.a. Ludacris, was the man of the hour on Thursday during a legislative meeting at the Georgia State Capitol. The rapper was given the floor and resounding applause for his foundation’s ability to reach at-risk youth in various Georgia communities.

“I think it’s one neighborhood at a time,” said Ludacris at the meeting. “So I love to by example, and just try to encourage and motivate people to do good.”

Since 2001, the Ludacris Foundation has worked to empower youth to accomplish their goals through perseverance and diligence. Although the foundation recognizes government aid as a means to help citizens rise above challenges, the charity encourages kids and teens not to rely on anyone else to make their dreams a reality.

Ludacris has two daughters named Karma and Cai. The rapper will soon be the proud father of three children when his wife, Eudoxie, gives birth to a boy or girl in coming months.