Look To The Stars News: Physical Challenges

Slash Teams With Dora The Explorer For Charity

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:30:00 -0000

Guitar legend Slash is teaming up with children’s cartoon character Dora the Explorer in this year’s most unlikely yet utterly awesome charity collaboration.

The guitarist is the first of a list of celebrities to be announced in a new initiative between Nickelodeon and the Children's Defense Fund which will see stars design children’s backpacks for auction. Also rumored to be involved are Shakira and Salma Hayek.

According to the Fund, its mission “is to Leave No Child Behind and to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start, and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities.”

The backpacks will be available this summer in the US, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Exclusive Photo Feature: Olympians' Hearts of Gold

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:34:00 -0000

We have witnessed the amazing physical feats of the US Team in the Olympics, and now the Olympians want to share some of the other wonderful ways they use their time and strengths. Look To The Stars is honored to bring you news of their charity work, with thanks to NBC/USOC for providing the images.

Chad Hedrick (Long Track Speed Skating – won a bronze medal)
Competes on Friday and Saturday, February 26th & 27th

Chad hosts an annual golf tournament for to benefit the TX Special Olympics.

“I’m a very proud supporter of Texas Special Olympics!”

Angela Ruggiero (Hockey)

Former Director: New York Islanders Project Hope
Athlete Advisory Board Member: Women's Sports Foundation
Athlete Ambassador: Right To Play
Athlete Advisor: Momsteam.com
Member: 350.org

Rachael Flatt (Figure Skating)

“I have partnered with Reading is Fundamental (RIF), which is the nation’s oldest children’s literacy organization. It is a blend of two of my passions…education/reading and volunteering. I hope that I am a good example of the phrase ‘student-athlete’ and that it is possible to combine the two and be passionate about both! I have also found more opportunities to volunteer in the past two years and I feel that it is very important to give back to the community at large."

Johnny Spillane (Nordic Combined)

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Todd Lodwick (Nordic Combined)

Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (Todd’s son, Finn, was diagnosed with epilepsy at 5 months)

Julia Mancuso (Alpine Skiing – won 2 silver medals)

WWF Climate Change

Don’t miss the following athletes, appearing in the Figure Skating Exhibition on Saturday, February 27th!

Evan Lysacek (Figure Skating – won a gold medal)

Celebrity board member for Ronald McDonald House

Co-produced and hosted a skating show that raised $90K for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and a memorial fund for a friend who died of cancer.

Meryl Davis & Charlie White (Ice dancing – won a silver medal)

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
American Cancer Society
March Of Dimes
The Humane Society

Hannah Teter (Snowboarding – won a silver medal)

Hannah started a maple syrup company, Hannah's Gold. The proceeds of the maple syrup sales provide water to a Kenyan village and helps AIDS afflicted mothers and children acquire land. She also donates the prize money she wins from racing to the village and visits often.

Emily Cook (Freestyle Skiing)

Emily is very involved with Right To Play, an international humanitarian organization that uses sports programs to improve health, develop life skills, and foster peace for children and communities in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the world.
She traveled to Amman and Aqaba, Jordan with the organization in April, 2009.

Gretchen Bleiler (Snowboarding)

Gretchen works with ‘Climate Project’ and the NRDC on building awareness around environmental issues. Her Oakley signature line of clothing is eco-friendly, and she works with all her sponsors to create eco-friendly sponsors when possible.

Tanith Belbin & Ben Agosto (Ice Dancing)

Created a fundraising ice show, “Tanith & Ben: Home for the Holidays,” which benefits the American Cancer Society, and an ice show, “Skate-Aid,” which raised over $40K for the American Red Cross tsunami relief.

Steve Nyman (Alpine Skiing)

Helped build an orphanage in Haiti (Steve was involved with aid in Haiti before the earthquake), and is involved with Team Darfur & A Child's Hope Foundation.

Erin Pac (Bobsledding – won a bronze)

Race for the Cure (Susan G. Komen for the Cure)

Johnny Weir (Figure Skating)

Elton John AIDS Foundation
Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity
UNICEF

Noelle Pikus-Pace (Skeleton)

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Lindsey Jacobellis (Snowboarding)

ASPCA – Started her own effort to benefit the ASPCA, called Hats 4 Hounds. She knit 101 hats to sell, and all the sales proceeds went to the ASPCA.

You can continue to show your support for the US Olympians by helping to support their causes and charities, and you can find a wealth of information on the athletes at NBCOlympics.com or TeamUSA.org.

And, don’t forget, the US Olympic Committee is a 501©(3) organization and needs continuous support in order to keep sending the best athletes to the Olympic Games!

Sheryl Crow To Play At William Shatner's Charity Horse Show

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:30:00 -0000

William Shatner will host his annual Hollywood Charity Horse Show on May 1 at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank.

Shatner has been hosting the charity horse shows for the last twenty years – inspired after he watched an exhibition by children who were so severely handicapped that some of them could not hold their head up, yet there they were going through intricate exercises on the back of a horse. The program was sponsored by Ahead With Horses, a therapeutic riding group for handicapped children. In 1990, Shatner hosted his first charity horse show, and the event has become a major fixture on the charity calendar.

This year’s event will include a special performance by Sheryl Crow and will benefit AHEAD with Horses, Camp Max Straus, Starlight Children's Foundation, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Hollenbeck Police Activities League, The Painted Turtle and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

More info can be found here.

Dionne Warwick To Play Two Variety Club Charity Shows

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00:00 -0000

Dionne Warwick Live In Concert – An All-Star Liverpool Salute has been set for Sunday 14 March 2010 (Mother’s Day) at 6.00 PM at the Britannia Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, with proceeds to go to charity.

The evening will be hosted by television star David Gest, recent winner of ‘Celebrity Come Dine With Me’ which was seen by more than ten million people. Ms Warwick will be joined by some very special guest stars for a one hour concert featuring many of her greatest hits. The evening will benefit Liverpool Cathedral Centenary Fund & Variety Club - The Children's Charity North West.

Dionne Warwick’s reputation as a constant hit-maker during the last five decades has been firmly etched into the public consciousness, thanks to nearly sixty charted hits worldwide. Since she began performing in 1961, Dionne Warwick has touched millions of people around the world with her classic recordings including “I Say A Little Prayer,” “Alfie,” “Do You Know The Way To San Jose,” “Don’t Make Me Over,” “Anyone Who Had A Heart,” “A House Is Not A Home,” “I’ll Never Love This Way Again,” “Deja Vu,” “Heartbreaker,” “Promises, Promises,” “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again,” “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” “Message To Michael” and “That’s What Friends Are For,” just to name a few. She has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has won almost every Award possible for her legendary musical career.

The concert is the night after the Variety Club’s annual Ball in London, also featuring Warwick.

For tickets contact:
Lyn Staunton/Judi Davies at Variety Club North West – Telephone: 0161 236 0500.

David Beckham's Big Charity Heart

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David and Victoria Beckham have donated over £1million (US$1.5 million) to help children in the last five years through their charity.

The Victoria and David Beckham Charitable Trust was set up by the couple to support initiatives for sick and disabled children. Past charities supported include UNICEF and organizations which help disabled children, such as those which provide wheelchairs to those in need.

Although donations to the Trust have fallen by £90,000 in the last year, the charity still gives to good causes.

“To have raised so much money and helped so many people is amazing,” said managing director David Watling. “Some of these wheelchairs can cost £10,000 and they are life-changing.”

Kate Linder Celebrity Charity Gala To Hit LA This Week

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:30:00 -0000

Emerging Magazine Celebrity Charity Productions will present the 1st Annual Kate Linder Celebrity Charity Gala, benefiting The ALS Association, Greater Los Angeles Chapter on February 11 at the Montage Beverly Hills Hotel from 6 PM to 10 PM.

A silent auction will begin at 6:30 PM and will continue throughout the evening. Dinner with celebrities will begin at 7PM. A product runway will follow dinner where celebrities will walk the runway, showcasing vendor products and services prior to being auctioned live.

Anyone desiring to attend the free live auction only are welcome. Those wishing to have dinner with celebrities may purchase tickets prior to the event or at the door.

Some of the Items to be auctioned are; Fur coats from Dicker and Dicker Furs of Beverly Hills, Rolling Stones group signed “Electric Red” guitar, a NASCAR Race Car driving experience at Telladega Super Raceway, Judith Ripka Jewelry, Rob Bacon Jewelry, Brandt Skinz Haute Couture Leather Jackets, Passes to Magic Castle in Los Angeles, Art, Frank Sinatra LP signed by members of the Ratpack, Sports Jerseys signed by Football and other sports personalities.

Donors continue to furnish extraordinary products and services for the Live Auction. Proceeds benefit The ALS Association, Greater Los Angeles Chapter. Kate Linder, Esther Valentine of the Young and the Restless will host the 1st Annual Kate Linder Celebrity Charity Gala.

Friends and guests of Kate Linder confirmed to attend include; Joan Van Ark, Bruce Davison, Channing Chase, Rip Taylor, RJ Mitte, Michelle Stafford, Dee Wallace, Stacy Haiduk, Miss California, Alison Arngrim, Sean Kanan, and many more.

More info can be found here.

Variety Club To Hold Annual Star-Studded Charity Ball

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:00:00 -0000

The Variety Club's 58th flagship Annual Dinner and Ball to be held at the London Hilton on Park Lane in March welcomes International star Dionne Warwick, who will be performing some of her greatest hits supported by members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The evening promises to be an extravaganza of entertainment, including dancing to the international Gilev Show Band, live and silent auctions, a raffle with some truly spectacular prizes and a sumptuous three-course dinner.

The event takes place on March 10 at the London Hilton. The Annual Dinner & Ball has seen star performances from the likes of Shirley Bassey, Lulu, Atomic Kitten, Ronan Keating, Girls Aloud and The Temptations, and this year looks set to be bigger and better than ever.

Ticket information can be found at the Variety Club website.

Stars Added To MusiCares Person Of The Year Charity Event

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:00:00 -0000

Ben Harper and Lucinda Williams have been added to the all-star lineup for the 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year tribute to Neil Young on Jan. 29 in Los Angeles.

They join other performers Jack Black, Jackson Browne, T Bone Burnett, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Sheryl Crow, Everest, Patty Griffin, Josh Groban, Emmylou Harris, Elton John, Norah Jones, Lady Antebellum, KD Lang, Dave Matthews, John Mellencamp, Ozomatli, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Leon Russell, James Taylor and Wilco. The dinner co-chairs are Warner Bros. Records Chairman Emeritus Mo Ostin, Lookout Management President and Founder Elliot Roberts, and Warner Bros. Records Chairman/CEO Tom Whalley. Two-time GRAMMY-winning producer Don Was will be the evening’s musical director.

Neil Young’s philanthropic work is as renowned as his musical legacy. He was one of the original founders of Farm Aid in 1985, and continues to be an active member on the organization’s board of directors. Each October, he and his wife Pegi organize and host the Bridge School Concerts, a benefit for the Bridge School that he and Pegi helped found. The school ensures that children with severe speech and physical impairments achieve full participation in their communities through the use of assistive technology and the development, implementation and dissemination of innovative educational strategies. These weekend concerts have drawn an international array of musical artists and have raised significant resources for the school.

The 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year gala is co-presented by AEG, ELS and Acura. The evening will begin with a special reception and silent auction that will offer an exclusive and unparalleled selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and one-of-a-kind celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The auction will be followed by a gala dinner sponsored by MasterCard, an award presentation and a star-studded tribute concert. The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. Proceeds from the annual GRAMMY Week gala dinner and concert honoring Young will provide essential support for MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn to in times of financial, medical and personal need.

More info can be found at the MusiCares website.

Download Music To Bring Relief To Haiti

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Regina Walton

In partnership with the United Nations Foundation, Habitat For Humanity and the Dave Matthews Band's Bama Works Fund Haitian relief effort, Music for Relief is working to provide immediate aid with food, water, and emergency medical supplies, and long-term sustainable housing solutions for the people affected by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12th at 4:53pm.

To help, people can download a mixtape of nine original songs by Linkin Park, Slash, Alanis Morissette, Peter Gabriel, Hoobastank, The All-American Rejects, and Enrique Iglesias. There is no set price for the album. However, donate what you can and donate generously as this catastrophic natural disaster requires that the world step up to help.

Music for Relief is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing aid to victims of natural disasters and the prevention of such disasters. Since its inception in 2005, Music for Relief has raised over $3 million for victims of multiple disasters across four continents and planted over 810,000 trees to help reduce global warming. Music for Relief was found by the band Linkin Park.

To find out more, go to MusicForRelief.org.

Kate Linder Announces Celebrity Guest List For Charity Event

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

As reported last month by LookToTheStars.org, Young and the Restless star Kate Linder has announced she will hold her first annual Celebrity Charity Gala in Hollywood on February 11. She has now announced some of her celebrity friends who will join her.

The event aims to raise funds for the Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the ALS Association, and will be attended by Young and the Restless cast members Wilson Bethel [Ryder Callahan], Hayley Erin [Abby Carlton], Stacy Haiduk [Emily Peterson/Patty Williams], Sean Kanan [Deacon Sharpe], Vanessa Marano [Eden], Michelle Stafford [Phyllis Summers Newman], and Yvonne Zima [Daisy]. Other celebrities include Alison Arngrim [Little House on the Prairie], Romi Dames [Hannah Montana], Bruce Davison [Longtime Companion], actress Ilene Graff, actress Q'orianka Kilcher, RJ Mitte [Breaking Bad], actress Lorielle New, Kevin Sorbo [Hercules], comedian Rip Taylor and actress Dee Wallace.

The gala includes a gourmet dinner with the stars, live entertainment and a live auction.

Tickets are $100 or VIP $150, and are available by phoning (570)677 4975 or emailing events@emergingmagazine.com. Information can also be found at the Emerging Magazine website.

The mission of the ALS Association is to lead the fight to cure and treat ALS through global, cutting-edge research, and to empower people with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support.

Read Look To The Stars’ exclusive interview with Kate Linder here.

Celebrities Are All In To Win For The Kids

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A host of celebrities will hit the poker tables on Saturday for the second annual All In To Win For The Kids charity poker tournament to benefit TLC for the Blind and Love Across The Ocean.

Some of the famous faces expected to attend the event include Brad Garrett, Denis Haysbert, Ray Wise, Kim Coles, Daniel Baldwin, Donnie Walhberg and many others.

The tournament takes place at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles at 4pm on January 9, with a first prize of $5000 and a seat in the 2010 WPT Celebrity Invitational.

TLC proceeds will benefit the construction of the new Children’s Center. The Center will serve infants, toddlers and preschoolers who are challenged by blindness with developmental disabilities. Proceeds will also go to Love Across the Ocean, an organization dedicated to improving the learning environment and lives of underprivileged children and families in Vietnam.

To find out more about the tournament, visit the official website.

80's Greats Donate To Barnardo's Campaign

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 12:30:00 -0000

Legendary Welsh rocker Bonnie Tyler – best known for her 1983 hit Total Eclipse of the Heart – has donated one of her classic stage outfits to a charity store in Swansea.

The black Joseph Ribhoff jumpsuit will be raffled by the Morriston Barnardo's Charity Store on Woodfield Street this week.

“We are very pleased that Bonnie Tyler has donated the outfit to our Morriston store, after all she is from Swansea,” said charity shop worker Celia White. "We also have signed CDs and signed postcards available. I am sure it will bring more people into the shop, especially Bonnie Tyler fans who want some of her memorabilia.

“We feel very privileged that she has chosen Barnardo’s and hopefully it will raise money for the charity and raise the Barnardo’s profile.”

The donation is part of the charity’s Glitz Campaign, which saw a massive number of celebrity-donated items sold at a special store in London over the last month. Barnardo’s celebrity supporters donated a selection of spangly 80’s favourites from their personal wardrobes, to be sold in the store. Joan Collins donated one of the outfits belonging to her alter ego Alexis from iconic 80’s TV show, Dynasty – complete with skirt, blouse and turban. Songstress La Roux donated two shoulder pad-tastic 80’s jackets and Dame Shirley Bassey a pair of diamante encrusted Yves Saint Laurent heels.

Other celebrity donations included a selection of House of Holland Hot Tights from Henry Holland, a pair of Miu Miu boots from model Laura Bailey and a suit from Julian Clary.

Retro retailer and fans of the 80’s vibe, American Apparel dressed the shop windows for the children’s charity with one window following a total 80’s theme, filled with donations from 80’s Pop icons including Carol Decker and Lisa Stansfield.

For fans based outside the London area, Shirley Bassey’s shoes and Joan Collins’ Dynasty outfit will be sold at silent auction with bids accepted both in store and via silentauction@barnardos.org.uk.

All funds raised from the pop up shop will go towards Barnardo’s vital work turning around the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children and young people throughout the UK. This includes work with children affected by today’s most urgent issues: poverty, homelessness, disability, bereavement and abuse.

The store is only open until January 8, and can be found at 65-67 Broadwick Street, London.

Annie Lennox And David Gray Duet For Charity

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Fans of Annie Lennox and David Gray will be excited to learn that the two British music icons will release a charity single after Christmas.

Full Steam will be released on December 28, with all proceeds going to the Children in Need charity.

Children in Need is a BBC charity that provides practical and lasting support to thousands of youngsters aged 18 and under, including those who have experienced homelessness, neglect, abuse or poverty, and those who’ve encountered serious illnesses, disabilities, psychological disorders or addictions.

The new single will join the charity’s other fundraising singles out now – Peter Kay's Animated All-Star Band, Terry Wogan's Silver Bells and All You Need Is Love – which also features Brian May and Hayley Westenra – and Sharon Corr's Me And My Teddy Bear.

LTTS Gift Idea - Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Looking for a Christmas gift that gives back? Last year, Look to the Stars brought you a story about Nelson Mandela's audiobook of African folktales read by your favorite stars. We have now learned that the Artists for a New South Africa (ANSA) audiobook has been nominated for a Grammy!

This selection of folktales from across the African continent is performed by a diverse group of acclaimed actors who donated their time and talents to the effort: Gillian Anderson, Benjamin Bratt, LeVar Burton, Ricardo Chavira, Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Whoopi Goldberg, Sean Hayes, Hugh Jackman, Samuel L. Jackson, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Debra Messing, Helen Mirren, Parminder Nagra, Sophie Okonedo, CCH Pounder, Alan Rickman, Jurnee Smollett, Charlize Theron, Blair Underwood, Forest Whitaker and Alfre Woodard. Directed by Alfre Woodard, the audiobook features a special message to the world’s children from Archbishop Desmond Tutu and original music by South African legends Johnny Clegg and Vusi Mahlasela.

All of the publisher’s profits benefit the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund and ANSA. Both organizations are working to address the impact of the AIDS pandemic on children in South Africa, which has more people living with HIV/AIDS and more children orphaned by the disease than any other country in the world. The audiobook, which is recommended for children 7 and up and for people of all ages, is published and distributed by Hachette Audio, a division of Hachette Book Group and subsidiary of Hachette Livre, the second largest publisher in the world. The publisher, performers, director, producers, engineers, designers, attorneys, manufacturers, pr team and studios all donated their services.

The website www.mandelasfavoritefolktales.com, includes discussion questions, family activities, coloring book pages, background on the performers, audiobook and issues, and other information.

The 3-disk audiobook, which includes a PDF with full color illustrations, has already received critical acclaim and awards and has been featured in best of lists including a Grammy Award nomination, National Parenting Publications Gold Award , iTunes’ Best Fiction Audiobooks of 2009, AudioFile’s Best Audiobooks of 2009, Audible.com’s 2009 Top 5 Audiobooks for Kids and Young Adults, a Library Journal’s Fall 2009 Pick, and an Oppenheimer Toy Portfolio 2009 Platinum Award.

To find out more about the audiobook and pick up your own copy for Christmas, visit the official website.

Jennifer Tilly Hosts All-Star Charity Poker

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

The 2nd Annual All In for ‘Cerebral Palsy’ Celebrity Poker Tournament took place at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas last weekend, where a host of celebrities gathered to play Texas Hold ’Em and raise money for the One Step Closer Foundation.

Hosted by Jennifer Tilly, the event attracted actors Dean Cain, Shannon Elizabeth, Glenn Morshower and TV personality Montel Williams, as well as Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian, Napster creator Shawn Fanning and poker professionals Jamie Gold, Barry Greenstein, Pam and Todd Brunson, and Phil Laak among many others.

The tournament, created by Jacob Zalewski, aims to help those who, like himself, suffer from Cerebral Palsy.

“We hope to see a future where Cerebral Palsy is a thing of the past,” says Zalewski. “We know we are getting one step closer to that vision everyday.”

Founded in 2007, The One Step Closer Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization whose main goal is to ease the lives of those who suffer from Cerebral Palsy. The organization also aims to financially assist researchers looking for medical advancements in treating and diagnosing Cerebral Palsy.

Last year the tournament raised $44,000 for the cause.

Kate Linder To Hold Celebrity Charity Gala

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Young and the Restless star Kate Linder has announced she will hold her first annual Celebrity Charity Gala in Hollywood on February 11.

Join Kate for an extraordinary evening of goodwill to lead the fight to cure and treat ALS. The 1st Annual Celebrity Charity Gala features a product runway, while raising funds for the Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the ALS Association.

The gala includes a gourmet dinner with the stars, live entertainment and a live auction.

Tickets are $100 or VIP $150, and are available by phoning (570)677 4975 or emailing events@emergingmagazine.com. Information can also be found at the Emerging Magazine website.

Read Look To The Stars’ exclusive interview with Kate Linder here.

Stars Beat The Odds For Children

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Children's Defense Fund hosted a star-studded charity gala last week.

The 19th annual Beat The Odds Awards honored young people who have overcome adversity to achieve academic excellence. Spotted attending the event at the Beverly Hills Hotel on December 3 were Jennifer Garner, Conan O'Brien, Jane Kaczmarek, Jennie Garth and many more.

The Children’s Defense Fund has worked for 35 years to provide a strong, effective voice for all the children of America who cannot vote, lobby, or speak for themselves. CDF educates the nation about the needs of children and encourages preventive investment before they get sick or into trouble, drop out of school, or suffer family breakdown.

LTTS Exclusive - An Interview With Darren Darnborough

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Richard Barker

Darren Darnborough is fast becoming one of the UK’s top actors – and his charity work makes him extra special.

He was born and raised in England, has appeared on several British television series – including “EastEnders,” “Holby City,” “The Bill,” and “Pie in the Sky” – and also appeared in several films such as “Gracie,” “The Car,” “Lost in Cannes” and “Nobody The Great.” The last of these films premiered in both Los Angeles and London, won the Viewers Voice Award for Best Film at Cinequest 2007 and earned director Kara Miller an award as one of the UK Film Council’s “Breakthrough Brits” of last year in Los Angeles, and has won several major awards.

Darren’s acting career began on stage, with lead roles in numerous new musicals at prestigious London venues, including Riverside Studios and Westminster Theatre. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts (with honors) from the University of London. He has also appeared in several major commercial campaigns for well-known brands such as Nestlé’s Golden Grahams, Dr. Pepper and Burger King. Darren now lives and works full-time as an actor and producer in Los Angeles. He is an entrepreneur and a philanthropist.

I recently had the opportunity to talk with Darren about his charity work.

Hi Darren, what are your favorite causes?

My favorite causes include Virgin Unite (the Virgin Group’s entrepreneurial foundation) and the Eve Branson Foundation. Eve Branson is best known as being Richard Branson's mum. Her Foundation aims to help the local people in the long term by setting up sustainable enterprises in Morocco, which so far have included a carpet workshop and a craft house run and managed by locals. When you visit Kasbah Tamadot (Sir Richard Branson’s Moroccan Retreat) you can purchase a selection of those handmade items in the Virgin Unite gift shop.

I sit on the host committee of Rock the Kasbah. This is a unique fundraiser where Hollywood power players mix with guests in order to raise funds for Virgin Unite and The Eve Branson Foundation. We are in our third year. I helped to co-produce the first one; therefore this event is still close to my heart.

How did you get involved with these causes?

To be honest, I came across them by luck. I’ve raised money for the Tsunami in the past. This experience helped me gain my fundraising skills. With regards to the above, I gate crashed the Rock the Kasbah pre-launch party. I bumped into a friend of a friend named Tim. We kept on bumping into each other in LA. Those brief encounters led to me co-producing the first event.

You need to fill a room with the right people and give them an unforgettable night.

What other causes are close to your heart?

I have supported Hollywood Media+Arts in the past. It is a one-of-a-kind arts academy for homeless and foster care young people located in the heart of Hollywood.

The Centre offers classes in media, music and the commercial arts—giving young people a chance to learn about a variety of creative activities, sharpen their thinking skills and prepare them for jobs in the creative industries.

Classes emphasize hands-on learning, mentor relationships, teamwork and technical skills. Celebrity tutors include Maroon 5. Classes are offered at no cost and lead to work-based mentorships, internships, and entry-level work opportunities. This is an LA project, which is supported by its community. I think that the local support makes it highly effective.

Do you have any final thoughts?

I run StuckForStaff.com, which provides a central resource allowing brands, agencies and staff the ability to communicate quickly and easily. I’ll be launching StuckForService.com soon. This is another recruitment business. When a customer purchases a subscription 10% of our fee will be donated to charity. In America you will be able to choose from five charities per state. There will also be a selection of five international charities, which will include Virgin Unite. We hope to raise lots of money for these good causes.

Look To The Stars and Richard Barker would like to thank Darren Darnborough for his time.

William Shatner Uses Love Of Horses To Raise Money For Charity

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Catrina K. Sally

Dedicated philanthropist and horse breeder William Shatner will be displaying his reining skills for charity on December 4th, 2009, at the Oklahoma State Fair Arena.

The avid equestrian will be leading his horse to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Showcasing in the 4R Performance Horses Celebrity Slide, Shatner will guide his horse in precise maneuvering and reining exercises. Other celebrity riders include: Grammy winner Lyle Lovett, fine jewelry company owner David Yurman, TLC’s Trading Spaces star Christi Proctor and Tulsa Morning Anchor Kristin Dickerson.

Other horse employing charities supported by Shatner include, Ahead With Horses and the William & Elizabeth Shatner Therapeutic Riding Consortium Endowment for Israel. Both organizations employ horses to heal and raise children’s self-esteem. Aside from horses, William Shatner has also dedicated time to the American Tinnitus Association and to the soldiers of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Bryan Adams Connects The World With Your Questions

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

He’s been entertaining crowds and music lovers for 30 years, and tonight Bryan Adams will appear on CNN’s Connect The World program to answer some of your questions.

The Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter has sold more than 65 million albums worldwide, has 21 top ten hits to his name, and has achieved a number one record in 40 countries .“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” – the theme to the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves – stayed at the top of the charts for a phenomenal 16 consecutive weeks in the UK singles charts.

Adams is also a highly skilled and prolific photographer – having been art director on many fashion shoots and has taken photos of everyone from Mick Jagger to Queen Elizabeth II. Adams uses the money he raises through photography to fund charitable projects. The Bryan Adams Foundation works to provide education opportunities for children worldwide.

The Bryan Adams Foundation was set up in 2006 by the musician and photographer Bryan Adams, in order to improve the quality of people’s lives around the world. The Foundation aims to achieve this by providing financial help and support to those people who are committed to bettering the lives of other people, by providing grants to finance specific projects.

The Foundation seeks to protect the most vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals in society. It aims particularly to advance education and learning opportunities for children and young people worldwide, believing that an education is the best gift that a child can be given. The Foundation’s area of support is broad and far-reaching, enabling grants to be given for projects supporting the elderly, victims of war and natural disasters, and those suffering from mental or physical illness.

Click here to submit your questions to Bryan Adams for tonight’s program.

Taylor Swift Surprises Children In Need

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Taylor Swift was a surprise guest at this year’s BBC Children in Need extravaganza in London on Friday night – an event that raised a massive £20,309,747 for charity.

Hosted by Terry Wogan, Tess Daly and Alesha Dixon, the seven hour show featured actors from some of Britain’s favorite shows – including Doctor Who, The Bill and the One Show.

“Another fantastic fundraising effort – we didn’t get quite to £21m but we got pretty close,” said Wogan, referring to last year’s total. “By the time we give you the full total in a couple of months’ time, I bet it’s got to be pretty close to what we made last year.”

The highlight of the show – which featured performances by acts such as Peter André, Spandau Ballet, Westlife, JLS, Stereophonics and Annie Lennox – was the unveiling of comedian Peter Kay's charity single for the charity. Featuring a medley of songs from The Beatles, Take That, The Jackson 5 and many more, the video consists of over 100 characters from Britain’s television past.

Taylor Swift jetted in for her performance at the show – and donated over US$20,000 to the charity, which provides practical and lasting support to thousands of youngsters aged 18 and under, including those who have experienced homelessness, neglect, abuse or poverty, and those who’ve encountered serious illnesses, disabilities, psychological disorders or addictions.

Other highlights of the show included a preview of the Doctor Who Christmas Special; actors from British soap Hollyoaks performing a tribute to Queen; Terry Wogan in perion costume for Lark Rise to Candleford; and the Dragons’ Den team helping to renovate a community centre in London.

“This year we surpassed all expectations with the amount raised and I am in awe that in these tough times, the British public has shown such tremendous support and generosity,” said Wogan. “I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone involved and for the extraordinary lengths the country has gone to help raise money for disadvantaged children.”

Highlights from the show can be seen here.

LTTS Exclusive - The Variety Club 57th Annual Showbiz Awards

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Richard Barker

Look To The Stars’ UK Correspondent Richard Barker was lucky enough to attend the Variety Club’s 57th Annual Showbiz Awards and filed this exclusive report and photos.

I was delighted to spend some time with A-list celebrities from music, film, theatre and television on the Red Carpet. The event was in aid of one of UK’s longest running children’s charities, The Variety Club, as it celebrated its Diamond Jubilee.

London saw some of the brightest stars from the showbiz world light up London’s West End as they congregated on the Red Carpet at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London W1 to show their support for one of UK’s longest running charities dedicated to sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people – The Variety Club – and to honour the most talented individuals from the world of entertainment at The Variety Club’s 57th Annual Showbiz Awards 2009. Don’t worry readers if you are based in England but weren’t there on the night – you’ll get a chance to watch the glitz, the glamour and hear the gossip on FIVE on Sunday 22nd November 2009 at 3.35pm.

The evening’s star-studded event commenced with an array of international A-list celebrities, industry stalwarts and leading luminaries from the worlds of film, television, comedy, theatre, popular music and classical music gracing the Red Carpet. The guest list welcomed names such as Kevin Spacey, Ben Kingsley, Patrick Stewart, Kelly Brook, Alesha Dixon, Dame Kelly Holmes (Ambassador for The Variety Club), David Suchet, Jon Culshaw, Alan Carr, Justin Lee Collins, Pixie Lott, Spandau Ballet, The Saturdays, Daniela Lavender, Faryl Smith and Joe Calzaghe. The stars shined for cameras as they made their way to an exclusive reception where champagne flutes were overflowing, as a prelude to a gourmet banquet and the coveted awards ceremony, which took place against a theatrical backdrop of exclusive world-class entertainment, including dazzling performances by Spandau Ballet, Pixie Lott and Faryl Smith.

The only event of its kind to honour the entire showbiz industry, this year’s winners included: Kevin Spacey, who was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre by fellow actor David Suchet; Justin Lee Collins, who was presented with the Television Presenter of the Year Award by Alan Carr; and Spandau Ballet, who were presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to Popular Music by The Saturdays.

On receiving his award, Sir Ian McKellen said, "This is an over-generous recognition of a career which, in truth, has been its own reward. Acting is working with friends and entertaining people and that’s quite enough for me. The Variety Club is having its 60th birthday, which means I was ten years old at the time in 1949, living in the north of England in Wigan, Lancashire. I was, without knowing it, preparing for a life in show business.

The Variety Club is the essence of life for kids who desperately need the help to get healthy. I am full of admiration for the work you have done for the past 60 years and hope you carry on with the work you do. I am extremely honoured to be associated with this charity and this award."

The Variety Club Showbiz Awards is one of the most eagerly anticipated entries on the British entertainment calendar and has become an international celebrity institution in itself. Nearly every showbiz personality of note from the past 60 years has been honoured by The Variety Club, renowned for its strong links with the showbiz world, including Tommy Trinder, Dame Vera Lynn, Lord Laurence Olivier, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Sir Alec Guiness, Sir Michael Caine, Dame Helen Mirren, Dame Judy Dench, Ben Kingsley, Diana Dors, Daniel Craig, Keira Knightley, Jude Law, James McAvoy, Al Pacino, Peter Sellers, Tommy Cooper, Ricky Gervais, Alan Carr, The Beatles, Eric Clapton, Katherine Jenkins and Hayley Westenra.

The Variety Club Showbiz Awards raises significant funds for and awareness of the work The Variety Club undertakes to help sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people. Celebrating its Diamond Jubilee this year, the charity has raised over £200 million and improved the lives of more than a million children and young people since its inception. Among its tireless work, the charity provides Sunshine Coaches, Easy Riders electric wheelchairs, exciting and educational trips, equipment for children’s hospitals and life enhancing equipment.

Also at this year’s Showbiz Awards, The Variety Club, in partnership with The Co-operative, revealed the face of its 2010 Gold Heart campaign – Alesha Dixon. The Gold Heart badges will be sold in Co-operative food, bank, travel and pharmacy stores from 28th January 2010. Owned by its members, The Co-operative has a long and proud history of supporting charities, community groups and other good causes. Every £1 donated in-store to the fund will help The Variety Club to provide vital, life-changing equipment to those children that need it most.

John Sachs, Chairman, The Variety Club Showbiz Awards comments, "Once again, the Showbiz Awards has honoured the UK’s top entertainment personalities embracing television, film, comedy, theatre, classical and popular music. As The Variety Club also celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this year, there was even more glamour, showbiz magic and star appeal than ever before.

The prestigious event also helped raise awareness and funds for The Variety Club’s praiseworthy work and as one of the UK’s longest serving charities dedicated to helping sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people, our sole and primary focus is to make sure every child and young person is given the chance to reach their fullest potential."

Here are some facts about The Variety Club:
The Variety Club provides practical solutions to allow sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people across the UK to reach their full potential. This year sees The Variety Club celebrate its 60th year of bringing hope, independence and freedom to children and young people. In the past 60 years The Variety Club has raised over £200 million and helped more than a million children and young people. The Variety Club has donated more than 3,300 Easy Riders electric wheelchairs and mobility aids since 1981, put 4,890 Sunshine Coaches on the road and given around £20 million to children’s hospitals. To find out more information or donate go to www.varietyclub.org.uk. Follow the Variety Club on twitter here.

Eva Longoria Honored For Philanthropy

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria has been honored as Philanthropist of the Year by The Hollywood Reporter.

The actress “was chosen for her relentless dedication to giving back to her community and serving others as well as for her long-standing commitment to Latino causes.”

“I’ve never met a more conscientious and socially aware young, energetic talent,” said THR publisher Eric Mika. “Eva’s efforts on behalf of the causes near and dear to her are Herculean. She pours her free time and energy into raising millions of dollars for charitable missions that make a difference in the Latino community and other humanitarian organizations.”

Longoria founded Eva's Heroes to help developmentally disadvantaged children and has been the National Spokesperson for Padres Contra el Cancer since 2005.

Having grown up with an intellectually disabled sister, Longoria considers her sister her hero. “She has given me so much inspiration and hope to face everyday with the strength and courage she has had her whole life. She has never seen herself with a disability and only sees the good in everyone and everything.”

Children In Need Benefit From Charity Singles

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

British comedian Peter Kay will unveil a new single to raise money for the BBC’s Children in Need charity at the organization’s annual TV extravaganza on November 20.

Details of the single are being closely guarded, but the charity is promising over 100 faces from Britain and America will be involved in the video.

Also available from HMV and download and benefiting Children In Need is “All You Need is Love” – a reworking of the Beatles classic, recorded at the famous Abbey Road studios, featuring the talents of Terry Wogan, Bill Wyman, Brian May, Bryan Ferry, Sharon Corr, Pink Floyd's Nick Mason, Paloma Faith, Lee Mead, Hayley Westenra and more.

Last week, the charity benefited from a massive charity concert organized by Gary Barlow that saw a reunion between Take That and Robbie Williams, as well as performances by Lily Allen, Annie Lennox, Katherine Jenkins, Paul McCartney and many more.

Take That And Friends To Rock Children In Need Tonight

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Thousands of charity-minded people are expected to pack the Royal Albert Hall in London tonight, November 12, for a huge star-studded concert organized by Gary Barlow and Take That.

Every year, BBC Children in Need creates magic moments that raise huge amounts of money for disadvantaged children, and this year the UK’s finest musicians hope to help raise more than ever with a spectacular show at the Royal Albert Hall.

The star-studded bill includes; Lily Allen, Paul McCartney, Dizzee Rascal, Dame Shirley Bassey, Leona Lewis, Snow Patrol, Cheryl Cole from Girls Aloud, Katherine Jenkins and Muse. And of course Gary will also perform on the night with his Take That partners, Jason Orange, Howard Donald and Mark Owen, as they again show their unwavering support of the charity – there’s even rumors of a possible reunion with Robbie Williams.

“It’s fantastic to be able to kick off BBC Children in Need 2009 in such a special way,” said Gary Barlow, “I’ve always wanted to do something like this and I can promise a night to remember, a night that will, I hope, play a small part in changing the lives of disadvantaged children across the UK.”

Radio 1’s Chris Moyles will host the event and will be joined on stage by Peter Kay, Fearne Cotton, James Corden and the legend that is Sir Terry Wogan, who will help introduce the stars and remind us of the work that BBC Children in Need carries out in the UK.

The show will be broadcast on BBC One in the weekend before the main BBC Children in Need Appeal on November 20 and coverage of the concert will be repeated on BBC Three, Wednesday 18 November at 9.00pm with highlights, presented by Kate Thornton, on Radio 2, Thursday 19 November at 8.00pm.

Viewers and listeners to the show will be invited to donate to help raise even more money.

Christmas Charity Singles Hit The Market

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

It’s that time year again – a new wave of charity singles are about to hit the market to spread goodwill in the Christmas season.

Leading the pack this year is a new single from Eric Clapton recorded with Paul Stewart – eldest son of Formula One legend Sir Jackie Stewart – called “Fly Free.”

Recorded in honour of the racing legend’s 70th birthday, the song will be released on 15 November 2009. All proceeds will be donated to the Grand Prix Mechanics’ Charitable Trust, an organization founded by Sir Jackie Stewart and others more than 20 years ago that assists Grand Prix, former Grand Prix mechanics, their wives, widows and children in times of need.

Also available is a charity single by veteran British television and radio presenter Terry Wogan, who has released a version of The Beatles’ classic All You Need Is Love for Children in Need.

And for lovers of classic artists, don’t forget Bob Dylan's charity Christmas album available right now. The album came out last month and benefits Feeding America and the World Food Programme.

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