NUVO taking 100 kids to see 'Black Panther' for #BlackPantherChallenge

Alternative magazine NUVO will soon give 100 Indianapolis-area kids a front row view to the wonders of Wakanda.

In less than a day, a GoFundMe effort launched Saturday by NUVO generated more than $1,500. That money was being raised as part of the viral #BlackPantherChallege, an online campaign started by a New York resident named Frederick Joseph who raised more than $40,000 on GoFundMe to take Harlem children to see "Black Panther" in theaters.

Joseph called on others to start GoFundMe campaigns in their communities to take more kids to watch Black Panther in the theater because "all children deserve to believe they can save the world, go on exciting adventures, or accomplish the impossible."

NUVO rose to the challenge. As of Monday afternoon, the page had generated more than $1,650 from 53 donors.

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"It took less than 24 hours, but together we've raised the needed funds to partner with the MLK Center and send 100 Indianapolis kids to a special screening of the Black Panther movie at Georgetown Cinemas on Feb. 17," NUVO Editor Laura McPhee wrote in the latest GoFundMe post. "We'll keep the page open a little while longer, and any monies above our goal will go to the MLK Center to help fund future events like this for the families they serve in our neighborhood."

According to GoFundMe, more than 200 #BlackPantherChallenge campaigns have raised over $160,000 so far. That money will help thousands of kids see the movie when it premieres on Feb. 16.

“I am grateful that all of you have answered the call and are taking action to help more kids watch their heroes on the big screen,” Joseph said in a statement. “Let’s keep pushing forward. If you’re a teacher, buy tickets for your entire classroom. If you’re a coach, take your team. If you're a community leader, do some organizing and get the kids and parents in your community to the theater.”

"Black Panther," which stars Chadwick Boseman as T'challa, is already the fastest selling superhero movie of all time, according to Fandango presale records. It is directed by Ryan Coogler who is best known for writing and directing the Oscar-nominated boxing drama — and Rocky spin-off — "Creed," which also starred "Black Panther" co-star Michael B. Jordan.

Call IndyStar reporter Justin L. Mack at (317) 444-6138 or email him at justin.mack@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter: @justinlmack.

