Hidden Figuresmessage of empowerment and perseverance helped inspire one aspiring astronaut.

Now, shes raising thousands of dollars to help other girls see the film for free.

So far, shes raised more than $17,000 and sparked similar initiatives around the country.

Hidden Figures Day 23

Richardson held the first screening in January, where 275 attendees got to see the film.

So far, theyve raised more than $120,000 and held screenings in 28 different states.

Earlier this year, the stars ofHidden Figuresbought out screenings specifically for low-income families.