BALTIMORE (AP) — Filmmaker Tyler Perry has donated $1 million to the NAACP to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the civil rights organisation.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People says the gift announced on Monday is the largest donation from an individual in the organisation's history. It will be distributed over four years.

In a statement, Perry says the perseverance of thousands within the NAACP helped pave the way for his success in the film industry.

NAACP leaders say the gift marks a major shift in black philanthropy. They say donations of this size have not typically gone to civil rights groups.

It's also a key time for the NAACP as the group faces questions over whether it remains relevant.