[5] Reed has had a hand in the careers of many top Hollywood stars and has worked to open doors for African-American actors for over 20 years.

[4] She is credited with jumpstarting Halle Berry's film career in 1991 by offering her a role alongside Samuel L. Jackson in Lee's Jungle Fever.

She made it her business to learn everything there was to know about the film and TV industry by quizzing herself using index cards to test her knowledge and ability to recall names, parts and projects.

[10] That determination landed Reed her first job as an assistant production office coordinator on the film, The Falcon and the Snowman, starring Sean Penn and Timothy Hutton.

[13] Each year, Reed hosts her annual Sunshine Beyond Summer Celebration where she brings together close friends, associates and peers to have a good time in the spirit of serving the community.

[10] It is held every year at the private residence of a selected supporting benefactor, which has included the homes of Jamie Foxx,[14] the former Los Angeles mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa,[15] and Judge Greg Mathis.