AnnaLynne McCord likes to get her hands dirty — and by dirty we mean, she loves to be involved 110% into the things she does.

Which is why when the 22-year-old 90210 actress was almost thinking of leaving Hollywood and acting behind, she got involved in The Blind Project with friend Jessica Minhas.

AnnaLynne shared with Variety, “Before 90210, I went through what I like to call a young-life crisis. It got to a point where I was done with Hollywood. I felt lost, which is when I got back in contact with my old friend and philanthropist Jessica Minhas and told her that I needed to be doing something hands-on.”

She added, “It was perfect timing, because she happened to be helping to launch the Blind Project. I immediately knew it was an organization I wanted to work with, so despite having turned down 90210 several times, I started researching the show and the hype around it and quickly realized what it could be for the Blind Project.”

We love when stars give back! AnnaLynne will be honored during today’s Power of Youth event.