Look To The Stars News: Human Rights

Stand Up To Cancer: Sherry Lansing Tells Us How And Why

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Sherry Lansing was the chair of the Motion Picture Group of Paramount Pictures from 1992 to 2005, where she oversaw the release of more than 200 films including Academy Award winners Forrest Gump (1994), Braveheart (1995), and the highest grossing movie of all time, Titanic (1997).

A pioneering studio executive, Lansing is the first woman in the film industry to oversee all aspects of a studio’s motion picture production. She is currently involved with Stand Up To Cancer, a non-profit organization/website/TV special that hopes to enable cutting-edge research aimed at finding a cure to all types of cancer. Stars from film, television, sports, journalism and music will come together for the September 5th primetime television event to raise funds for cancer research, and it will feature live performances as well as filmed content giving viewers insight into cancer.

Look To The Stars recently caught up with Sherry Lansing to find out more about Stand Up To Cancer and its goals.

Tell us how Stand Up To Cancer started.

SU2C got started when a group of us wanted to do something big for cancer research, so we dreamed… and, as in Hollywood, we dreamed BIG. We dreamed of the networks giving us a simultaneous commercial free telecast in an attempt to educate people about prevention, create awareness, and raise funds for cancer research.

All of us were involved in working in various ways to help scientists stop cancer, focusing on different areas of the disease, but we put our competitive interests aside to create Stand Up To Cancer, just like how the Big 3 networks [NBC, ABC, and CBS] will come together under the same tent to air our September 5th show.

We are patient advocates, we have all been touched personally by cancer, and we want it to end. I lost my mother to cancer, but since then I see it’s become an epidemic, everyday I pick up the telephone and hear of someone else who has been struck by this disease. I just want to help. I hate cancer. I just don’t want it to exist.

What sets SU2C apart from other cancer research fundraisers?

We are raising money for dream teams of researchers and scientists. Regretfully, cancer foundations, scientists, and researchers have all competed with each other for funding due to lack of money and didn’t share research because of intellectual property, which in essence held back breakthroughs. Instead, we are bringing together scientists from all the around the world to form dream teams that will be funded and who will work together in a collaborative way. We’re identifying the most promising opportunities for success and leveraging our resources and knowledge to drive breakthroughs and find cures.

Our show is just the beginning. This is a movement, much like what Al Gore did with An Inconvenient Truth, we hope to be the tipping point for cancer, and we hope cancer will be on the front page much like the economy and the War in Iraq.

There is quite a celebrity-studded Public Service Announcement up on your site. How did you get so many celebrities on board with this cause? Why do you think so many celebrities choose to become advocates for cancer research?

Luckily it hasn’t been hard getting celebrity involvement. Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and they want to stand up, just like everyone else.

What else are celebrities doing to help this cause?

They are helping in many ways by creating PSAs, donating their time, providing website content, participating in our show – answering phones, performing on air, honoring people with cancer.

The MLB was our first major donor, they gave 10 million dollars and we just launched with them a PSA that Jessica Biel did for us about how to txt to donate, which will be shown throughout the baseball season at stadiums.

I’m very grateful that it hasn’t been hard getting talent, the only thing limiting is that we only have an hour show.

Can you tell us who any of the show’s performers or phone operators will be?

We are still finalizing this, but the names will be big. We already have advocates like Lance Armstrong and Katie Couric... and that’s just the beginning.

How can people get involved with SU2C?

Everyone can be involved, from a company to a third grade kid. People can stand up now by joining teams to fundraise online, email congress to request funding for cancer research, or for just a $1 donation launch a star in memory or dedication to someone with cancer in The Constellation on our site.

In your estimation, how will SU2C contribute to the overall progress of cancer research?

In many ways I think we can make an incredible change. This is the beginning of a movement, and when people start to create a movement – civil rights, women’s rights, the green movement – it’s going to be impactful. This show is unprecedented – except for 9/11, the networks have not banded together like this over a cause, never for a disease. If this constituency is mad as hell and not going to take it anymore that one out of two men and one out of three women will get cancer in their lifetimes – and as a result people become aware of ways to prevent cancer – then that alone will change things tremendously by just getting people to talk about it and wanting the government to fund research.

We’ve never been so close to a cure thanks to technology and science, and we want to create a people’s movement to change their lifestyles, to go out and get the tests needed to catch the disease in time and to also raise money to give scientists what they need to continue the cause. All the tumblers are in place… it all starts with the people.

Tune into Stand Up To Cancer on September 5th, 8:00 pm ET/PT on ABC, CBS and NBC.

Look To The Stars would like to thank Sherry Lansing for taking the time to talk to us about this fabulous initiative.

Stars Beat Bullying With New Auction

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A hot new charity auction has been launched on eBay, featuring items from Nicole Kidman, Avril Lavigne, and Girls Aloud.

The stars have joined with the UK’s leading bullying prevention charity – BeatBullying – for its annual celebrity auction, with all cash raised going towards its peer mentoring work in schools throughout Britain.

Bidders have the chance to pick up items such as a Golden Compass movie poster signed by Kidman and Daniel Craig; the outfits Girls Aloud wore when performing their number one hit Sexy No! No! No! live on BBC1; sheet music, photos, a t-shirt, and a CD signed by Avril Lavigne; a vest worn by Cheryl Cole; a DVD signed by Jimmy Carr; a photo signed by Simon Cowell; a program signed by Judi Dench; and a chance to meet the Sugababes and 2 tickets to see them in concert in Dagenham on August 9.

Beatbullying believes that the introduction of progressive bullying prevention programs in the UK will reduce bullying, reduce truancy levels, and reduce racist and homophobic violence and abuse in schools. The auction runs until July 20, and can be accessed via eBay.

Jet Li Attends Earthquake Relief Banquet

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Action star Jet Li attended a charity banquet in China last week to raise money for the victims of the devastating Sichuan earthquake that struck in May.

Held in the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Beijing, the evening was sponsored by Swiss watchmaker DeWitt and Jet Li’s One Foundation, an organization the star established after the 2004 Asian tsunami to help victims of natural disasters. Legendary film director John Woo and the cast of his upcoming blockbuster film Red Cliff – including Tony Leung and Takeshi Kaneshiro – also attended the banquet.

Li has spent the last few months campaigning for the victims of the Sichuan earthquake, and is declining all movie roles in 2008 to focus on his charity work.

A documentary about the disaster relief efforts of the One Foundation was shown during the banquet, after which Jet Li stated that the One Foundation had launched a plan for post-quake reconstruction. He called on everyone to donate one yuan per month to help the victims.

The evening raised 1 million yuan (US$147,000) for the Chinese Red Cross.

Also in Asia recently, Taiwanese pop singer Keung Hang has launched a new charity to help students, in association with the Shanghai Charity Foundation.

The new fund – Traces of Love – will help disadvantaged primary and middle school students, as well as students who suffer from serious diseases in China.

The first donation – 500,000 yuan (US$71,428) – was provided by Daphne Shoes.

“I think I should do something for them, but my own power is not strong enough to help all the needy students,” said Keung. “So I want to urge more people to help.”

The singer plans to expand the fund to include secondary and college students as more donations roll in.

Wanted: Blood Of NASCAR Fans

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 11:30:00 -0000

The American Red Cross has teamed up with 3M and Roush Fenway Racing to launch Red Cross Racing, a campaign that aims to encourage NASCAR fans to donate blood.

Two-time NASCAR champion Greg Biffle – a Red Cross blood donar and member of the Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet – is at the forefront of the new campaign, and will wear a special Red Cross fire suit at the Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Speedway on November 9.

“I’m proud to be an American Red Cross blood donor,” said Biffle. “I give blood because it’s easy to do and helps support our community. I hope NASCAR fans across the country will join me this racing season to help save lives, one drive at a time.”

As part of the new campaign, the Red Cross has also launched a new website at www.redcrossracing.com, where race fans earn points every time they participate in a blood drive. Points are redeemable for Red Cross Racing branded items including caps, t-shirts, leather racing jackets and limited edition die-cast cars. All online participants will also be in for the chance to win an all-expense-paid trip for two to the Checker Auto Parts 500.

The next local blood drive will be in Pulaski on July 21 at the Pulaski Recreation Center from noon until 6 pm. Those that donate will receive a free NASCAR lanyard.

Watch out for the Number 16 car that will be appearing throughout the 2008 NASCAR season – it will carry the Red Cross logo for most races, and will be fully adorned with a Red Cross paint scheme by the time it gets to Phoenix.

Rihanna The Face Of New Charity Campaign

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rihanna is to front luxury goods label Gucci’s UNICEF campaign.

The new campaign – tagged Tattoo Heart – will start in December, and the 20-year-old singer will appear in a series of advertisements promoting the initiative. She is already well-known for her support of both UNICEF and Gucci, after performing at a fundraiser the fashion house threw for the charity at the New York Fashion Week in February.

“When we decided to dedicate a full ad campaign to really come out and show our commitment to UNICEF, I felt a musician and a beautiful woman was the perfect icon for this campaign,” said Frida Giannini, Gucci’s creative designer.

The campaign will feature a special limited edition selection of Gucci products, with 25% of sales being donated to the United Nations International Children’s Education Fund.

Rihanna is no stranger to helping children in need: in 2006 she established the Believe Foundation to help terminally ill and disadvantaged children around the world, and earlier this year she played a series of concerts to raise awareness and money for her charity.

A Message From Roger Moore

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Some say he was the best James Bond ever, and now actor Roger Moore has written a message to encourage people to support UNICEF.

“I have had the rare privilege of seeing firsthand UNICEF’s work with children around the world,” wrote Moore on the UNICEF website “I have met countless children who are benefiting, whose lives have been saved by UNICEF programs. Many are living in appalling poverty, without the day-to-day essentials we take for granted. Others are bravely struggling to survive in situations of conflict.

“The work we do today is vital and lifesaving. But I have some grave concerns about the future. Though UNICEF staff and volunteers work tirelessly, the hardships that so many children face – drought, famine, war – will not go away in the foreseeable future.

“The legacies left by UNICEF supporters enable us to be there for future generations… and continue to save and uplift the lives of our world’s most precious citizens in years to come.”

The 80-year-old actor has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the charity since 1991, and first became involved in humanitarian issues when he witnessed extreme poverty while filming in India in 1983.

To find out more about UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassadors, visit their website.

The Chips Are Up For Africa

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

The Second Annual ‘Ante Up for Africa’ poker tournament was held on July 2nd in Las Vegas, and drew an impressive field of poker pro’s, celebrities and athletes – all of who helped make the event a success by raising over $400,000 for charity.

The event, co-hosted by humanitarian/actor Don Cheadle and poker pro Annie Duke, is already having a positive impact in Darfur – notably in reference to a UN Security Council vote authorizing a peacekeeping force in the area. “It wouldn’t have taken place [without us],” said Cheadle.

“It’s just great to see everybody,” Cheadle said as the event began.

The mood was comical at some tables,”All the tournaments I’ve ever won have been for charity,“ said actor Jason Alexander. “When there’s no actual money for me, I’m very good.”

Adam Sandler cracked his first joke as the first hand was dealt, “I just want to hurry up and lose my money and go home to my wife.”

Matt Damon busted out of the tournament early, while seasoned poker pal Ben Affleck made it all the way to the final table before losing to John Hennigan.

Affleck said he remains optimistic about the situation in Darfur, “I do think that [Sudan’s leaders] are afraid of the next administration being tougher, and are probably a little bit more willing to be more cooperative. But I’m optimistic about what’s going to happen.”

Other celebrities who kicked in the $5k for a spot at the felt included Charles Barkley, Jennifer Tilly, Shannon Elizabeth, Ray Romano, Casey Affleck, and poker pro Phil Helmuth among others.

The tournament benefited two charities: ENOUGH, a project co-founded in 2007 by the International Crisis Group and the Center for American Progress; and Not On Our Watch (NOOW), a group co-founded by Cheadle, Damon, George Clooney and Brad Pitt.

Jackie Chan Urges Non-Violence In Timor

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

UNICEF Ambassador Jackie Chan visited East Timor last week to spread a message of non-violence to the country’s youth.

The visit aimed to curb a culture of “martial arts gangs” – groups of youths that have been involved in street fighting that led to an outbreak of violence that killed 37 people and caused thousands to flee their homes less than two years ago.

“If you use martial arts to help somebody, you’re the hero,” said Chan. “If you use martial arts just on the street to fight somebody, even if you win you’re not the hero – you’re nobody.”

During the visit, Chan met Timor Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and led a choreographed martial arts display in front of over 5000 young people at Dili’s national stadium. He hopes his presence will help gangs realize their art is a discipline, not a weapon.

“It does not matter what school of martial arts we are from as long as we are united,” he said. “Training for martial arts helps you to strengthen your eyes, your mind and your body. When you have a good body and mind, let’s help people. Don’t harm them.”

You can watch a video of Chan’s visit here.

Nelson Mandela's 90th Birthday Party Rocks London

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Jennifer Beckmann

Hyde Park was transformed into a giant birthday bash Friday night as 46,664 people joined “birthday boy” Nelson Mandela and a stellar lineup of entertainers to raise funds and awareness for his 46664 charity.

It had been raining on and off all day in London, but the skies cleared just in time for the once-in-a-lifetime lineup of musicians and entertainers to take the stage in honor of Nelson Mandela’s 90th Birthday. The event was hosted by an enthusiastic Will Smith, and performers included Jivan Gasparyan, Razorlight, the cast of Into the ‘Hoods, Sipho Mibuze, Leona Lewis, Zucchero, Suzanna Owiyo and D’Gary, Sugababes, Annie Lennox (who performed with the Agape Children’s Choir), Emmanual Jal, Vusi Mahlasela, Jamelia, Loyiso, Johnny Clegg, Joan Baez, Eddy Grant, Kurt Darren, Simple Minds, Brian May and Andrea Corr, Amy Winehouse, 9ice and Bebe Cool, Josh Groban, Amaral, and Queen and Paul Rodgers. The renowned Soweto Gospel Choir accompanied many of the acts. Additional entertainers who introduced the musical acts included Quincy Jones, Lewis Hamilton, Geri Halliwell, Peter Gabriel, Stephen Fry, and Jerry Dammers.

After Jivan Gasparyan opened the show with an instrumental piece to accompany a moving series of photographs of Mandela, Will Smith took to the stage with his wife Jada and announced, “The party starts now.” An energizing performance by Razorlight set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Quincy Jones introduced crowd favorite Leona Lewis, who sang her two top hits “Better in Time” and “Bleeding Love.” Lewis wished Mandela a happy birthday and told a touching story of how she and her family used to sing songs about him when she was young.

Other birthday wishes came via a film of various celebrities who were unable to attend, including David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Sharon Osbourne, Sheryl Crow, Morgan Freeman, and Susan Sarandon.

Smith returned to the stage throughout the show, revving the crowd with a surprise performance of his song “Switch,” which included rap verses from his hit television show “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” Annie Lennox, a passionate HIV/AIDS activist and staunch supporter of Mandela’s charities, made a moving speech about a young girl she had met in Africa who was gravely ill with AIDS but was able to make a miraculous recovery thanks to proper treatment and care. Before and after images of the girl were shown on the large screens behind Lennox, who then performed a song with the Agape Children’s Choir. The crowd sang along as the lyrics “We are together… We are family” flashed across the screens.

Peter Gabriel introduced Emmanual Jal, a former child soldier in Sudan who sang a song dedicated to the British aid worker who rescued him and 150 other children. Gerri Halliwell introduced trailblazing South African music legend Johnny Clegg, who performed a duet with Joan Baez.

Immediately following this performance was the highlight of the night. Will and Jada Smith introduced the “birthday boy” himself, and Nelson Mandela was escorted onto the stage to thunderous cheers and applause. The concert performers gathered on stage and, together with the nearly 50,000 people in attendance, sang “Happy Birthday.”

Mandela waved to the crowd and made a brief, moving speech. “We say tonight after nearly 90 years of life, it’s time for new hands to lift the burdens,” he said. “It’s in your hands now, I thank you.”

Eddy Grant and Kurt Darren followed up Mandela’s appearance with “Give Me Hope Johanna,” a song Grant wrote during South Africa’s apartheid regime. Simple Minds performed, having also performed at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert at London’s Wembley Stadium in 1988; and celebrated English humorist Stephen Fry introduced Brian May and Andrea Corr. The most highly anticipated performance of the evening came next, as a recently hospitalized Amy Winehouse teetered onto the stage in platform heels to perform her hit songs “Rehab” and “Valerie.”

After a politically-fueled performance by Nigerian artist 9ice and Ugandan musician Bebe Cool – who appeared on stage in bright orange prison jumpsuits emblazoned with “46664” – Josh Groban sang with Vusi Mahlasela and the Soweto Gospel Choir. Spanish artists Amaral performed an acoustic number, and then Mandela and the audience were treated to a video of U2’s Bono and The Edge singing Stevie Wonder’s peppy rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

The penultimate act was Queen and Paul Rodgers, who performed a fan-friendly medley of Queen’s greatest hits, including “The Show Must Go On,” “We Will Rock You” and “We are the Champions.” The crowd sang and clapped along thunderously.

The concert’s finale featured anti-apartheid campaigner and musician Jerry Dammers, who organized the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute. Dammers and Winehouse led the entire line-up of performers and the crowd in singing Dammers’ anthem “Free Nelson Mandela.” Formerly sung in protest against Mandela’s imprisonment, the song took on a celebratory tone and was a fitting end to an historic event.

All proceeds from the concert will go to 46664, the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s campaign for global HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

To send birthday wishes to Nelson Mandela – who turns 90 on 18 July – visit www.happybirthdaymandela.com. Proceeds from this birthday card campaign go to Nelson Mandela’s charities.

Ben Affleck Gets The Whole Picture About The Congo

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

Ben Affleck took a Nightline crew along on his third trip in a year to the Democratic Republic of Congo in an effort to raise awareness about the plight of its people.

In a place where 1,200 people die every day from things like preventable disease (over five million dead in the past 10 years of internal conflict, 16 times as many as in Darfur’s ongoing genocide); in a place where boy children are used as soldiers and girls as militia wives and where two of every three women have been raped; in a place that visually more resembles scenes from the Road Warrior, Affleck says this failing state needs the world’s attention.

Aired last week on ABC, it was not necessarily a Nightline report nor was Affleck acting as its correspondent. The airing was simply meant to record Affleck’s journey to understanding. According to ACB News spokesperson Emily Lenzner, “We basically went with a camera… and followed [Affleck] around. It was his observations, his journey that we documented.”

Determined to get the whole picture, Affleck tried to examine each perspective. In his introductory essay he wrote, “My trip brought me to camps for people displaced from their homes, to rural hospitals, to gold mines, and even to remote operations with the United Nations designed to “sensitize” the most violent and vicious of the foreign-born militia in an effort to encourage them to return to their country of origin. I met with warlords and peacemakers, survivors and aid workers.”

Clear in the understanding that his Nightline piece would not turn the Congo around overnight, he is hopeful it may plant some seeds into the consciousness of Americans. “The connected human chain which binds us demands that we contribute, even if only in some small way, to the betterment of the world. Congo is a place that deserves, at the very least, our eyes and our ears.”

Chow Yun Fat Sells Photos For Earthquake Relief

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Chinese actor Chow Yun Fat has released a book of photographs, with all proceeds going to charity.

Only 1000 copies of Moving Pictures have been produced, and the proceeds will be donated directly to the Hong Kong Red Cross to help the victims of the Sichuan earthquake. The book includes photos the actor took while working on several films, including Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Curse of the Golden Flower, and The Children of Huangshi.

“I use my perspective to record things that happen in the film studio, the work of every actor and every crew member,” said the star of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. “I think it’s quite fun.”

Chow also said it was his wife’s idea to donate the proceeds of the book to the earthquake victims, and hopes the book helps them get back on their feet. He explained that every little thing helps the victims, and “that everyone has their own way of offering aid and it is the thought and sincerity that counts.”

The book is only available from Louis Vuitton stores in Hong Kong and Paris, and retails for HK$1288 (around US$165).

Kid Rock Raises Eyebrows And Money At Charity Golf Tournament

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Detroit rocker Kid Rock hit the green in his home town on Wednesday to take part in the Buick Open Pro-Am golf tournament .

This year’s 50th anniversary tournament saw a host of Detroit’s favorite sons swinging their clubs with the best, including the Red Wing’s Kirk Maltby, Lions quarterback Jon Kitna, and Former Piston Vinnie Johnson, but it was Kid Rock and his pro partner John Daly that drew the crowds to the event.

Dressed in bib overalls and a white T-shirt, the 37 year-old-rocker spent more time signing autographs and searching for balls he sliced into the trees than actually playing golf, but the atmosphere was one of fun and humor.

“I’m a people person,” said Rock. “I love people and being around people. I got [into the entertainment business] to make some money, originally. Little did I know I would end up on a golf course with John Daly and doing all sorts of charity work and going overseas. It’s been great. I’m very humbled and very privileged.”

The tournament raised money for the American Red Cross and the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of Greater Flint, as well as the Whalley Children Center, Easter Seals, and the Flint Institute of Music.

Jolie-Pitt Foundation Donates To War Children

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have donated $1 million to support the education of war-affected children through their Jolie-Pitt Foundation.

The Education Partnership for Children of Conflict will distribute the donation to four organizations working with children who have lost parents and homes in Iraq, and children in the United States who have lost parents in the conflict will also benefit.

“These educational support programs for children of conflict are the best way to help them heal,” said Jolie, who co-chairs the Education Partnership for Children of Conflict.

“We hope to encourage others to give to these great organizations,” added Pitt.

$500,000 will go to the Armed Services YMCA Operation Hero Program, which will provide educational tutors and counseling to 2,500 children affected by the war in America. The remainder will be split between three organizations operating in Iraq: Women for Women International, which provides books, school supplies and other basic necessities to Iraqi women and children; the International Rescue Committee, which will repair three schools and offer classes for more than 2,500 students; and www.NineMillion.org – a UNHCR campaign – which will donate learning materials to more than 2,000 displaced Iraqi children.

Aid will also go to refugee children and school rehabilitation programs.

Celebrities To Raise Stakes For Africa Again

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

The 2008 ‘Ante Up For Africa’ Poker Tournament at the World Series of Poker will be held on July 2 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The tournament is the brainchild of actor Don Cheadle and poker pro Annie Duke, who created the event to raise money and awareness for the crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan.

“After the success of last year’s tournament, we are looking forward to another exciting year while raising awareness for an ongoing crisis,” Duke said. “It is exciting to bring the world of poker and entertainment together, and we are once again asking players who win prize money to donate half of their winnings to our charities.”

Last year’s inaugural event raised more than $700,000, thanks in part to the stellar list of celebrities, athletes, and poker professionals who participated.

Confirmed to participate in this year’s event are Cheadle, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Adam Sandler, Ray Romano, Charles Barkley, Jason Kidd, Kevin Pollack, Cheryl Hines, George Lopez, Joe Trohman from Fall Out Boy, and more.

“The poker community has a unique opportunity to help ease the suffering in Darfur,” said Jeffrey Pollack, WSOP commissioner. “The stars are coming out for this special event once again and we encourage everyone to register early before we sell out.”

Two charities will benefit form this year’s Ante Up For Africa showdown – the ENOUGH Project and Not On Our Watch.

ENOUGH is joint initiative of the International Crisis Group and the Center for American Progress, which aims to end crimes against humanity in Darfur, Northern Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The organization also hopes to prevent future mass atrocities around the world.

Not On Our Watch, which was founded by George Clooney, Don Cheadle, Matt Damon and Brad Pitt, strives to focus global attention and resources on putting an end to mass atrocities around the world. It takes its name from the book authored by Cheadle and John Prendergast, and draws on the voices of celebrities, cultural leaders and activists to help bring the crisis to the public’s attention and generate humanitarian assistance for the nation.

The tournament is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on July 2.

Britto Brings Water Home

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

Brazilian pop artist Romero Britto has joined forces with the BrazilFoundation and beverage company O.N.E. World Enterprises to bring fresh water to drought-prone communities in Brazil.

This summer, O.N.E. will donate a portion of sales proceeds from its all-natural, coconut water beverage to BrazilFoundation, which will use the money to build 200 wood-lined cisterns to collect rainwater for households in Brazil’s northeastern states of Pernambuco and Paraiba. Besides contributing to better health through the provision of safe drinking water, this will also cut the daily task of mothers and children walking miles to the nearest clean water supply.

Typical of his style, the bright, bold and lively label for the drink was designed by Romero Britto: “As an artist, I am privileged and honored to be able to lend my talent in support of this project. As a Brazilian from Pernambuco… I applaud companies like O.N.E. and the BrazilFoundation for taking action on behalf of those in dire need.”

O.N.E. – whose drink contains no added sugar, fat, cholesterol or preservatives, and is packed in environmentally sound Tetra Pak – is proud of its involvement in this effort. O.N.E.’s president, Rodrigo Veloso, says, “As a company founded on the ideal of using natural ingredients to promote healthy living, O.N.E. is committed to lending its resources to the fight for the most basic of all natural ingredients so scarce for millions today – clean drinking water.”

The limited edition coconut water drink can be purchased across the United States at Whole Foods and Krogers stores, and at Amazon.com.

Aung San Suu Kyi - Birthday Wishes That Can't Be Heard

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:38:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

On June 19, Burma’s Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi will spend her 63rd birthday as a political prisoner in Burma (Myanmar). And to mark the occasion, the US Campaign for Burma have organized over 200 events to help Americans learn more about her and the struggle for human rights and democracy in her military-led country.

Aung San Suu Kyi is a brave and courageous woman whose face is now more well-known than her name. But it is a face etched with sincerity, a face that has retained its youthful vigor despite the hardships it has endured, despite the years spent watching her fellow people suffer, and the lines that now run over it only add a look of wisdom and determination to her dogged drive and dedication.

Hers’ is an incredible and powerful story in a country that is struggling – a story of an academic based at Oxford University in England who returned to her native Burma to oppose the brutal military regime in her homeland, risking her life and leaving her husband and children behind. She led the National League for Democracy to a staggering win – with 80% of the votes – at the 1990 elections, only to have her post as Prime Minister nullified, and she has been imprisoned almost ever since. She even had to wait under house arrest when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. She was prevented from seeing him before he died, not allowed to comfort him at his bedside or help her children through their pain.

Aung San Suu Kyi is a remarkable woman – immortalized in the U2 song “Walk On” and the only Nobel Peace Prize winner kept imprisoned anywhere in the world – her crime was her desire to see her people free. And tomorrow yet another birthday will creep by, its shadow filling the cracks that run through her extraordinary life. But it will not go unobserved, and the US Campaign for Burma – an organization dedicated to empowering grassroots activists around the world to bring about an end to the military dictatorship in Burma – is urging people to join them in marking the occasion.

As part of the organization’s efforts, thousands of their members have pressed the U.S. Congress to award Aung San Suu Kyi the highest U.S. honor – the Congressional Gold Medal; they have organized over 60 former Presidents and Prime Ministers from every single continent to issue a united call for Suu Kyi’s release; they have pressed the United Nations Security Council to issue its first-ever acknowledgement of Aung San Suu Kyi as a democracy leader of Burma in a presidential statement; and they have rallied 30 celebrities to record short videos about Aung San Suu Kyi and the struggle for human rights in Burma.

To find events the campaign has organized, or to donate to their cause, visit the US Campaign for Burma website.

Black Eyed Peas Gig Raises Cash For Earthquake Victims

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:34:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Black Eyed Peas have raised over $870,000 at a benefit show in Shanghai for victims of the Chinese earthquake.

The show, held on Tuesday night, was originally intended as a promotional event for beverage companies Chivas Brothers and Pernod Ricard China, but became a benefit in the aftermath of the May 12 earthquake that has killed more than 69,000 people in the country’s Sichuan region. Band members apl.de.ap, will.i.am, Taboo, and Fergie also donated a selection of personal items – including a guitar – to an auction held before the concert.

“We fell in love with China and the Chinese people when we visited here before,” said will.i.am. “So [we] wanted to use tonight to do all we could to help the relief effort in the aftermath of the earthquake.”

The band played to 700 invited guests, and the proceeds will be added to $300,000 already donated to the Chinese Red Cross by Pernod Ricard.

Eric Clapton Donates Paintings To Red Cross Shop

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:32:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Legendary guitarist Eric Clapton donated over 20 paintings to a sale in Britain last week to raise money for the Red Cross.

The Chelsea Red Cross charity shop – famous for its stock of vintage and designer clothes – has held many successful sale events in the past, although not as successful as this one: over $7,800 was raised.

“The sale was a huge success,” said Cathy Shimmell, store manager. “My wonderful customers and other kind people have been so generous in donating art works to support the Red Cross. I’m very grateful to Eric Clapton, who donated 23 pieces of art work, which turned out to be very popular.”

Taylor Swift Gives Her Vote To Charity

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 09:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Country music sensation Taylor Swift is donating all of the proceeds from her merchandise sales at this weekend’s Country Music Festival in Nashville to charity.

The 18-year-old singer will be gifting her profits to the Red Cross, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Nashville Area Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund in Middle Tennessee and a portion to benefit the National American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

The singer is also trying to encourage more young people to vote and exercise their rights.

“I’ve been trying to do my research more,” she told The Tennessean. “Before you have the ability to vote, you just kind of support who your parents support. I’ve had more interest in figuring out who believes in what, because every vote counts. I’m not going to talk about politics, because it’s not my specialty. I know as much as your average 18-year-old who wants to know the general issues… but I’m not going to go out there and try to influence thousands of people because I have a music career and a platform to say things publicly. I don’t think because you do have the platform to say things publicly that you necessarily should.”

Swift is certainly no stranger to charitable acts. Last year she launched a campaign to protect children from online predators, and earlier this year she donated the pink Chevy pick-up truck given to her by her record label to children’s charity, the Victory Junction Gang.

Jet Li Takes Action For Earthquake Survivors

Wed, 28 May 2008 11:32:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Following the devastating earthquake in China earlier this month, the 5.12 Sichuan Earthquake Disaster Relief Command has been formally set up by action star Jet Li in Chengdu.

Li has established the relief effort with his One Foundation, a charity he set up to help those affected by natural disasters. The initiative aims to conduct long-term reconstruction work, and the Foundation has sent in three teams to organize and train volunteers in association with the Red Cross Society of China.

“We have deployed proper arrangements and the third batch of supplies will arrive tomorrow,” said Li. “A One Foundation Family will be built up in Jiangyou county and other places to help students in more than 130 schools resume classes.”

Jet Li also expressed that One Foundation’s post disaster work will focus on sponsoring and supporting the elderly, orphans, and the disabled.

David Beckham to Climb Kilimanjaro

Wed, 21 May 2008 10:39:17 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

How persuasive is U2 front man / humanitarian Bono? He’s recently asked the world’s most recognizable soccer star, David Beckham, to climb Mount Kilimanjaro for charity, and Beckham has agreed.

Beckham decided to undertake the intense six-day climb to raise money for UNICEF after being asked by Bono, but no date has been set yet for Becks’ big climb.

A source close to the LA Galaxy player told Britain’s The Sun newspaper: “The 19,340ft peak is a bit outside of David’s normal comfort zone but he is absolutely set on making the climb. No date has been fixed yet because David is very busy with his LA Galaxy commitments, but he is absolutely set on doing it.”

Shakira and Latin Singers Unite Against Child Poverty, Again

Tue, 20 May 2008 10:12:26 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

The ‘Concert For The Children’ was staged last weekend, simultaneously in Mexico and Argentina, free to the over 300,000 expected viewers.

Packed with Latin stars including Shakira, Ricky Martin, Alejandro Sanz, Chayanne, Diego Torres, Juanes, Maná and Miguel Bosé, the concerts’ goal was to raise funds that charity ALAS will use to help the millions of children living in poverty throughout Latin America, and where an estimated 350,000 children die from poverty every year.

“People are condemned to poverty because there are no exits or choices,” Shakira said. “And children who don’t receive an opportunity end up as adults being involved with things that they never imagined they would be doing in the first place, like drug trafficking or being recruited into criminal groups. Imagine what Latin America could achieve if we invest in developing the potential of these children.”

ALAS, founded in 2006, has been bringing artists, intellectuals and entrepreneurs together to address the social emergency, and focuses on improving nutrition, health and education for children.

32 out of 54 million children in Latin America under the age of five live in poverty.

Shakira, who performed at the Buenos Aires venue, secured $200 million in donations for the performance. Ricky Martin played at the other venue at Mexico City’s main plaza, Zócalo.

“The funny thing is that Latin America produces three times what it needs to feed its population. So, it is doable, we can really eradicate poverty,” Shakira said. “What’s very inspiring is to see Latin America for the first time in charge of its own issues.”

Legend, Doolittle Honor Sachs and Soros

Mon, 19 May 2008 10:56:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

The Millennium Promise and Malaria No More Annual Benefit took place last week at The Tent at Lincoln Center, raising over $2 million for the fight against extreme poverty and disease. The event honored the charities’ founders, Raymond G. Chambers, Peter Chernin, Professor Jeffrey Sachs and George Soros.

Grammy-winner John Legend presented an award to Jeffrey Sachs. Sachs’ book, The End Of Poverty was a catalyst in Legend’s forming of the Show Me Campaign. American Idol’s Melinda Doolittle presented an award to Peter Chernin, and performed “Amazing Grace” as part of the evening’s entertainment. Ann Veneman, the Executive Director of UNICEF, and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director of the World Bank, presented awards to Ray Chambers and George Soros, respectively.

Millennium Promise is on a mission to end extreme poverty by 2025. They have begun by taking steps to achieve the eight globally-endorsed Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa by 2015.

Malaria No More is actively taking steps to end deaths due to malaria, by providing bed nets and raising awareness about this disease, which kills 3,000 children every day.

For more information on how you can get involved, visit the Millennium Promise and Malaria No More websites.

Yao Ming Steps Up Donation for Disaster Relief

Mon, 19 May 2008 10:55:44 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

NBA player and Rockets Center Yao Ming has filmed several Public Service Announcements in conjunction with the Red Cross to appeal to fans to help with earthquake relief in his native China after the devastating 7.8 magnitude struck the country and killed thousands of people.

The PSAs were filmed in both English and Mandarin Chinese. The English version will run during the NBA Playoffs television broadcasts, and the Mandarin Chinese will run on NBA Playoffs broadcasts in China.

NBA Senior VP/Community & Player Programs Kathy Behrens: “It is a straightforward appeal to direct people to the Red Cross. His personal appeal will be the tone.”

And Yao isn’t just asking for help, he’s already reached into his own pockets and donated close to $72,000 for the cause. That is, until there was a minor backlash against the basketball star, who earned close to $55M last year: “A bit stingy isn’t it?” wrote one fan.

“This is only the first contribution from Yao,” said Lu Hao, the head of Yao’s management team in Beijing. “He will follow it up when he returns to the country.”

But before Ming had a chance to return to China, Internet criticism of his ‘small’ donation allegedly forced him to up his donation to about $250,000 later in the week, according to media reports.

Ming is well known for his generosity, always illustrating that his heart is as big as his 7’6” physique. Last year, for example, Ming’s charitable efforts raised more than a million dollars for under-privileged Chinese children, and he also spent countless hours toward helping stage the 2007 Special Olympics in his home city of Shanghai.

The Red Cross Society of China has opened several bank accounts and hotlines to receive donations for the victims of the quake. Donations to help survivors can also be made via the American Red Cross.

Look To The Stars News: Human Rights

Stand Up To Cancer: Sherry Lansing Tells Us How And Why

Related past articles

Stars Beat Bullying With New Auction

Related past articles

Jet Li Attends Earthquake Relief Banquet

Related past articles

Wanted: Blood Of NASCAR Fans

Related past articles

Rihanna The Face Of New Charity Campaign

Related past articles

A Message From Roger Moore

Related past articles

The Chips Are Up For Africa

Related past articles

Jackie Chan Urges Non-Violence In Timor

Related past articles

Nelson Mandela's 90th Birthday Party Rocks London

Related past articles

Ben Affleck Gets The Whole Picture About The Congo

Related past articles

Chow Yun Fat Sells Photos For Earthquake Relief

Related past articles

Kid Rock Raises Eyebrows And Money At Charity Golf Tournament

Related past articles

Jolie-Pitt Foundation Donates To War Children

Related past articles

Celebrities To Raise Stakes For Africa Again

Related past articles

Britto Brings Water Home

Related past articles

Aung San Suu Kyi - Birthday Wishes That Can't Be Heard

Related past articles

Black Eyed Peas Gig Raises Cash For Earthquake Victims

Related past articles

Eric Clapton Donates Paintings To Red Cross Shop

Related past articles

Taylor Swift Gives Her Vote To Charity

Related past articles

Jet Li Takes Action For Earthquake Survivors

Related past articles

David Beckham to Climb Kilimanjaro

Related past articles

Shakira and Latin Singers Unite Against Child Poverty, Again

Related past articles

Legend, Doolittle Honor Sachs and Soros

Related past articles

Yao Ming Steps Up Donation for Disaster Relief

Related past articles