7News Helping Hands, Easterns Automotive surprise NBMA

Agnes Moss' dream was to make it to the Hollywood movie industry, but she says the resources weren't available. Now, she's a champion for young professionals hoping to do the same.

That's why the National Black Movie Association is 7News' latest Helping Hands recipient.

Moss, the founder of National Black Movie Association, said, "I started with a strong passion for film and I wanted to become a filmmaker so I went to school, a historically black college or university (HBCU), but the resources and access to Hollywood just wasn't there. It was a great school but just no resources in that concentration."

Moss is now paving the way for Black students pursuing the movie industry.

"One day I was sitting at my desk thinking how my trajectory could have been different. I thought, 'What if there was an organization that provided resources and access to Hollywood?'" Moss questioned. "What if I could start that organization for other HBCU students and provide diversity for the film industry?"

Moss launched the National Black Movie Association, a nonprofit that champions black films and advocates for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, with programs at more than 100 HBCUs.

"We target them by finding where they are. As many of us know, they are already creating content and [becoming] videographers and filmmakers," Moss said.

As the Oscars approach, it's people like Moss helping others achieve their dreams.

That's why 7News and Easterns Automotive Group surprised the National Black Movie Association with a 7News Helping Hand.

"Learning about the National Black Movie Association right here in D.C. has been amazing," said Joel Bassam of Easterns Automotive Group. "The way your organization supports film makers, film stakeholders, enthusiasts, and all of those who advocate for diversity in films is an amazing thing. We want to help you by donating $2,200 to your cause to continue to help those who share those amazing stories."

Moss was extremely grateful for the financial boost, which she says will go a long way toward supporting Black filmmakers and their talents and ideas.

"This will help with scholarships and programming, thank you so much!" Moss said.