Look To The Stars News: At-Risk/Disadvantaged Youths

Frank Bruno's Night Out With Charitable Gentlemen

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Former world champion boxer Frank Bruno joined boxer John H Stracey and ITV World of Sport wrestler Tony ‘Banger’ Walsh at a charity black tie dinner in the UK last week.

47-year-old Bruno – who won the WBC Heavyweight Championship in 1995 – was one of 200 guests to attend the dinner, held at the Nailcote Hall Hotel near Berkswell, to raise money for Gentlemen’s Night Out, a charity helps sick or disabled children or their parents. Established over 40 years ago, Gentleman’s Night Out distributes funds to those that do not have the ability to raise funds themselves. Beneficiaries they have helped include Marie Curie Cancer Care, the Special Olympics, the Variety Club, and many more.

Last week’s dinner raised £2,500 through ticket sales and an auction that included boxing memorabilia.

More information about Gentleman’s Night Out can be found here.

Terry Pratchett Knighted, Robert Plant Becomes A Commander

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Several of Britain’s most charitable celebrities were honored by the Queen in her New Years Honors List yesterday.

Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant became a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to music. Plant reformed the 70s rockers for a one-off gig in London in 2007 to benefit the Ahmet Ertegun Education Fund, which provides students with annual scholarships to universities in the U.S, U.K. and Turkey. The organization was established by the late Ahmed Ertegun, co-founder of Atlantic Records.

“During the Zeppelin years, Ahmed Ertegun was a major foundation of solidarity and accord,” said Plant, now 60. “This performance stands alone as our tribute to the work and the life of our long-standing friend.”

Also honored by the Queen was Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, who is involved in a number of charities, including Cancer Research UK and Honeypot. He was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

But the biggest honor went to Fantasy writer Terry Pratchett, who was knighted by Her Majesty. Sir Terry was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2007, and has since donated over a million dollars to the Alzheimer’s Research Trust and has dedicated his life to funding a cure for the disease.

“There are times when phrases such as ‘totally astonished’ just don’t do the job,” he said of his knighthood. “I am of course delighted and honored and, needless to say, flabbergasted.”

The honor has been supported by groups that have benefited from Pratchett’s involvement.

“I would like to congratulate Terry on this fantastic and well-deserved achievement,“ said Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society. “Terry is not only a successful author and well-loved public figure; he is also playing a key role in fighting the misunderstanding and stigma surrounding dementia.”

Ludacris Gives Children A LudaCrismas

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rapper Ludacris spread some Christmas cheer last week when he helped the American Civil Rights Educational Society hold their annual Christmas Lunch.

The event was in doubt this year after the ACRES building in New York was broken into and severely damaged by fire earlier this month. But Ludacris and his Ludacris Foundation stepped in and made sure the event went on as planned. The star even made a personal appearance and handed out gifts to disadvantaged children.

Ludacris set up the Ludacris Foundation to inspire youth to take responsibility for their future, build stronger families and foster community economic development in the community. The rapper and the Foundation has just spent the month visiting Chicago, New York, Miami, and Atlanta area children in an initiative called LudaCrismas in Toyland. The events treated disadvantaged children to games, entertainment, food, and Santa.

“The Christmas season is all about giving of yourself – that’s the true meaning of Christmas,“ said Ludacris. “Helping those that are less fortunate than ourselves – that’s what this time of year is all about. During the holidays there is no better time to turn back, reach back, and give back.”

Over 1000 children benefited from the events.

“I love this time of year and can’t wait to see the wonderment in the eyes and the smiles of joy on the faces of the children as they make it through LudaCrismas in Toyland” said Roberta Shields, President of the Ludacris Foundation. “We know the importance of helping others and giving back and we understand that the little things we do can sometimes have a huge effect on these children for years to come.”

Doobie Brothers To Play Charity Concert

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Legendary American rock band, The Doobie Brothers, will perform inside Cobo Arena at the 2009 North American International Auto Show’s (NAIAS) annual black-tie Charity Preview gala on Jan. 16. The band will entertain Charity Preview attendees at 9 p.m. in Cobo Arena with doors opening at 8:30 p.m.

“The Doobie Brothers performing at Charity Preview will make this truly a night to remember for our guests,” said Joe Serra, senior co-chair of the 2009 NAIAS. “Adding a band like this with their history and caliber to the evening’s festivities is a perfect fit for a fun night for Detroiters while supporting 12 local children’s charities.”
Attendees must present their Charity Preview ticket stub at the entrance to Cobo Arena to see the Doobie Brothers performance. Seating and standing room will be available at the performance along with food and refreshments.

The Doobie Brothers have been a top concert attraction since the band began in 1969 in San Jose, Calif. The group has many memorable hits including “Black Water,” “Listen To The Music,” “Takin’ It To The Streets,” “Long Train Runnin,” and “China Grove.”

Since its inception in 1976, Charity Preview has raised over $77 million for children’s charities in metro Detroit, over $32 million of which was raised in the last five years alone. Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets.
Tickets for the event are $400 each and can be purchased by calling 888.838.7500. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.charitypreview.com.

Metro Detroit area beneficiaries of the Charity Preview include: Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children’s Center, Judson Center, Children’s Services of Northeastern Guidance Center Assistance League, The Detroit Institute for Children, Think Detroit PAL, Easter Seals – Michigan, March Of Dimes, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund – a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

On January 18, the Jonas Brothers are also set to take to the stage for the Charity Preview.

Curtis Granderson Talks Charity Basketball

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Major League Baseball player Curtis Granderson recently talked to Mlive.com about his upcoming charity basketball game.

“My off-season is different from anyone else’s,“ he said in the interview. “Last year, I wanted to do a big event, but didn’t want to seem like I was copying everyone else. A lot of athletes have done bowling events. I love basketball, so I thought that may be a good fit.

“As for rounding up participants – it has been easy. They all have a passion for wanting to help out the educational system in Michigan’s inner cities. They believe in the cause. I didn’t want to just bring in names to bring in names. I wanted to bring in people who believe in what my foundation is trying to do.“

The second annual Celebrity Shootout will take place on Saturday, January 17, at Lake Orion High School north of Detroit, and will benefit the Grand Kids Foundation, a charity Granderson established to help underprivileged children in Detroit and other areas. Expected to take part in the event are former University of Michigan head football coach Lloyd Carr, WNBA Detroit Shock forward Sheryl Ford, former Detroit Lions All-Pro players Herman Moore and Lomas Brown, former Michigan football and NFL standout Tyrone Wheatley, former Super Bowl MVP and Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard, UFC star “Sugar” Rashad Evans, professional boxing super-middleweight Andre Dirrell, 2008 Miss America winner Kirsten Haglund, ESPN anchor Dana Jacobson, 2007 Playboy Playmate of the Year Sara Jean Underwood, and Project Runway’sJoe Faris.

“Right now every dollar counts,“ said Granderson. “Of course we have goals, but those can be greedy. With the economy in the position it is in throughout Michigan right now, we just have to cross our fingers. It’s tough to ask people during this time to come out and pay $20 per person to watch a bunch of celebrities play basketball.

“I do want them to know, though, that my foundation has zero operating costs. We don’t pay employees or pay for celebrities to come in for this event. We have also had some groups jump in with in-kind sponsorships such as the Townsend Hotel, to help with those costs as well. Every penny on every dollar goes to this cause.“

Advance tickets for the event are available on the Grand Kids Foundation Web site at www.grandkidsfoundation.org or at www.curtisgranderson.com, and the complete interview can be read here.

Jonas Brothers To Play Charity Concert For Auto Show

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 12:30:00 -0000

The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has announced the Grammy nominated Jonas Brothers will play a special concert at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena on January 18, 2009 to help raise funds for the annual Charity Preview.

The 2009 Charity Preview will take place at Cobo Center on January 16 from 6-9 PM. Since its inception in 1976, Charity Preview has raised over $77 million for children’s charities in metro Detroit — over $32 million of which was raised in the last five years alone. Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets. The annual event has delivered more than $6 million to children’s charities in Southeastern Michigan.

The Jonas Brothers join a growing list of celebrities that have attended Charity Preview in years past to help raise funds for children in need. Previous attendees include Céline Dion, Aretha Franklin, Kid Rock, Kevin Bacon and Jay Leno. Through their Change for the Children Foundation, the Jonas Brothers raise funds to support programs that motivate and inspire children to face adversity with confidence, determination and the will to succeed. Their first fundraising initiative – You Decide. You Donate. – launched this past summer and through the generosity of their fans, was able to donate to charities including NothingButNets.net, American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Camp, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Summer Stars.

“We couldn’t be more pleased that an act as large as the Jonas Brothers have offered their support to Charity Preview,” said Joe Serra, senior co-chair of the 2009 NAIAS. “Not only will attendees be supporting local children’s charities in this time of dire need, but they will be able to provide the kids in their life with a ticket to the hottest concert in town.”

For every Charity Preview ticket purchased, patrons will receive one free ticket to see the Jonas Brothers live in concert on January 18, 2009 at Joe Louis Arena. There are a limited number of Charity Preview tickets that are tied to the Jonas Brothers concert. Tickets must be purchased between December 23, 2008 and January 5, 2009. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go to benefit Charity Preview. Charity Preview ticket holders who purchased prior to December 23 will be contacted and given the option for Jonas Brothers tickets as well.

For details on how funds from the Charity Preview are used to give back to the local community, see here-.

Adam Sandler Supports Toys For Tots At Bedtime Stories Premiere

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Angela McCrae

There was no shortage of celebrity appearances at the World Premiere of Bedtime Stories in LA on Thursday, December 18. But the film’s stars – Adam Sandler, Guy Pearce and Courteney Cox – had to share the red carpet with the Marine Toys for Tots.

This is the fourth year in which Disney has coupled with the Toys for Tots organization. Marines were stationed around large boxes of toy donations as celebrities such as Rob Schneider, Aisha Tyler, Kerri Russell, Courteney Cox, Guy Pearce and Adam Sandler graced the carpet.

As Sandler dropped a stuffed animal into the donation box, he shared his sentiments about the Marine Toys for Tots cause: “I want to make sure that the soldiers are given back, when they come back from Iraq and Afghanistan.”

While on the red carpet, Look To The Stars asked Sandler whether there were any other charities or causes close to his heart. In response, Sandler stated that he is an avid supporter of research and programs for individuals who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis. Sandler has witnessed the affects of the disease on his cousin, Jana Sandler.

Will Smith Donates $1.3 Million To Charity In 2008

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Will Smith gave away over US$1.3 million to charitable causes over the last year.

Along with his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, the actor donated the money to a variety of religious, civic and arts groups through his Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation.

The single biggest contribution of $250,000 went to the Yesha Ministries of Philadelphia, a born-again Christian-based organization run by Reverend James Robinson. Another $200,000 went to a Christian ministry in Los Angeles called Living Waters. The Church Of Scientology religion also received hefty donations from the couple, with $67,500 going to the New York Rescue Workers Detoxification Fund, $50,000 to the group’s Celebrity Centre in Hollywood and $5,000 to ABLE.

The Smiths also donated thousands of dollars to a Los Angeles mosque, other Christian-based schools and churches, and to the Yitzhak Rabin Memorial Center in Israel. They also gave $25,000 to the Progeria Research Foundation. Progeria is a disease that causes rapid aging.

In May, the couple also gave $1million to help set up a school for children of all religions.

“About 10 years ago Jada and I started dreaming about the possibility of creating an ideal educational environment, where children could feel happy, positive and excited about learning,” he said.

Jackie Chan Hands Over Cash To Boys' And Girls' Club

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Action star Jackie Chan took a break from filming his latest movie last week to present two checks to organizations that benefit children.

The actor is currently filming The Spy Next Door in New Mexico, and was asked to attend the ceremony to present the money to the children’s charities in Albuquerque. Chan – who told Look To The Stars that the biggest problem in the world today is the “suffering of children” – presented the checks on behalf of Pulte Homes, which owns the model home village where The Spy Next Door is being filmed. The company donated $5,000 to the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of Albuquerque and $5,000 to Southwest Multimedia.

“I’m very lucky to be able to help children who are suffering the the world,“ Chan told Look To The Stars last year. “Since I am Ambassador for UNICEF and UNAIDS, I am able to help raise interest in the problems that children face. Plus I am involved with my own charities here in Asia – the Dragon’s Heart Charity and the Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation. There are so many problems for children! Sometimes I feel that I just can’t do enough for them – as soon as I solve the problem of one group, I notice that another group is suffering. I try, but it’s never enough.“

Stars Raise Megabucks At ICAP Charity Day

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:30:00 -0000

ICAP (IAP.L), the world’s premier interdealer broker, raised $16.3 million (£11 million) worldwide on its 16th annual Charity Day, beating the $13.7 million (£9.2 million) raised in 2007. The money raised will be donated to over 100 charities worldwide.

“To raise over $16 million in one day is an incredible achievement, particularly in the current environment," said Michael Spencer, Chief Executive Officer of ICAP. "It is the efforts of our customers, staff and supporters that made Charity Day 2008 such a fantastic success. Many needy people around the world will benefit from their efforts.”

In New York, ICAP hosted many celebrity spokespeople from the various charities it gave to this year, including: Boomer Esiason, Gary Carter, Anna Kournikova, Don Zimmer, Amy Adams, Joe Montana, Matt Dillon, Jeff Gordon, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci, and Julianne Moore.

“I was thrilled to be involved in ICAP’s charity day," said Julianne Moore. "They were so generous and so excited to be helping so many. It was really wonderful, in a year where there has been so much economic distress, to be with a group that focused on giving so whole heartedly. Every one of us at the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance was so thankful to be included in their tremendous generosity. Thank you, thank you ICAP!!”

The charities the celebrities raised cash for included the Boomer Esiason Foundation, the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of America, Communities in Schools, Four Rings Family Foundation, Goal USA, Refugees International, The Jeff Gordon Foundation, Partners in Health, Equality Now, Robin Hood Foundation, and the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance.

“It’s disheartening to see and hear all the bad news that’s going around these days, and that’s why we can’t change the way we look at the world and interact with others, especially those groups like ours, which focus on an illness or disease and really change it for the better," said Boomer Esiason, veteran NFL quarterback and founder of BEF. "I want to send a heartfelt thanks to all my new friends at ICAP and their customers for such a wonderful and supportive day.”

ICAP has raised a total of $79.2 million (£53 million) for Charity Day since it was started in 1993. A full list of the charities ICAP supported this year as well as more information about how ICAP’s donation will make a difference to the many lives receiving this aid can be found at www.icapcharityday.com.

Andy Roddick To Rock N' Racquet For Children

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Tennis star Andy Roddick will be joined by Serena Williams, John Isner, and Caroline Wozniacki for a series of exhibition tennis matches to raise money for the Andy Roddick Foundation over the next few days.

The ICAP Rock-N-Racquets event will be held on December 12,13, and 14 and will be emceed by Wayne Bryan, father of top U.S. doubles team Bob and Mike Bryan, with musical performances by Chamberflow, Dennisha Duncan and DJ K-Dogg.

“A lot of tennis events tell you to be quiet,’’ said Roddick. “We tell you to not be quiet.”

This will be the fifth time the event is staged, with funds going to institutions that care for children who are neglected, abused, at risk or with catastrophic illnesses.

“If we can alter the course of someone’s life at an early stage we could give them a chance for the rest of it,” said Roddick. “I didn’t need anything tragic to happen to get me motivated to help.”

The three events will be held in three different states – December 12 will see matches held at Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky; December 13 will see matches played at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina; and December 14’s games will be held at the Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee. Each evening will feature matches between Roddick and Isner, Williams and Wozniacki, and then mixed doubles events.

More information about the games can be found at www.rocknracquets.com, and tickets are available from Ticketmaster.

Project Angel Food Hosts Celebrity Shopping Spree

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

With the Holidays around the corner, Project Angel Food kicked off their annual DIVINE DESIGN on Thursday December 4th, celebrating style and philanthropy with a big dose of holiday shopping.

David Arquette, Eric McCormack, and Elton John’s partner David Furnish were some of the stars who helped out during the weeklong event, in which top designers sold fashion, furniture, beauty and gift items, with proceeds going to provide meals for victims of HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. For every $5 spent at Divine Design, Project Angel Food can cook and deliver a meal to someone facing HIV/AIDS, cancer and other debilitating illnesses.

Divine Design kicked off in the heart of Beverly Hills with a special gala evening held at the Beverly Hilton, featuring a runway show presented by Divine Designer honoree, Tadashi Shoji, and an awards presentation. Honors were also given to Man of Style, David Furnish and Woman of Style, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Over 500 celebrities, designers and supporters of Project Angel Food attended the opening night which also included a live fantasy auction and an exclusive night of VIP shopping. Following the awards ceremony, the gala attendees returned to shopping in the marketplace at 9900 Wilshire Boulevard (formerly Robinson’s May building and generously donated by Candy & Candy), where cash registers rang in the holiday shopping season all in the name of love. The Divine Design marketplace opened to the public on Friday December 5th at 11am.

Opening night attendees enjoyed NUVO Cosmopolitans and listened to jazz and blues by KJAZZ.This year’s gala night also featured one-of-a- kind Live Auction items to bid on including a unique BARBIE Holiday Tree donated by Mattel and created by the lead designer for Barbie; a New York Fashion Week package which includes first class airfare for two on American Airlines, front row tickets to the Tadashi Shoji Show at New York Fashion Week in Bryant Park and a dress made especially for you by Tadashi Shoji himself; sponsor a day of meals for Project Angel Food clients. These fantastic auction items and others were auctioned off by the vivacious auctioneer, Ed Beardsley of Bonhams & Butterfields and the beautiful actress and Project Angel Food supporter, Lisa Rinna.

One of the companies that donated items to the event was luxury bag designers Trina, who provided over $20,000 worth of products to the event. For anyone who wasn’t able to make it to the shopping event last week, Trina are currently auctioning off some celebrity-sign bags online, with all proceeds to go to Project Angel Food.

Visit eBay to bid on bags autographed by John Mayer, Adam Sandler, Ryan Seacrest, Neil Patrick Harris, and the casts of Ugly Betty and Lost.

Divine Design was born 16 years ago in response to the devastation the design community was experiencing from HIV/AIDS. Since its inception Divine Design has raised more than $13 million to help fund Project Angel Food’s meal-delivery program throughout Los Angeles County. Founded in 1989, Project Angel Food provides life-sustaining meals and nutritional counseling each day to more than 1,400 men, women and children disabled by HIV/AIDS, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Thanks to a devoted core of 1,500 volunteers, meals are cooked and delivered daily to people’s homes throughout Los Angeles County.

(Photos copyright Alex J. Berliner)

Cream Of The Christmas Celebrity Charity Auctions

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

It’s that time of year again when most of us are looking for the perfect gift for those we love, and Look To The Stars wants to make the choice a little easier for you by highlighting some of the great celebrity items up for grabs in the name of charity.

Born-to-run fans of Bruce Springsteen will be revving their engines to get hold of the rocker’s very own Harley Davidson this Christmas. The customized Fatboy motorcycle is up for grabs to benefit the Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation, the charity founded in 1994 by former professional tennis player Andre Agassi and dedicated to transforming U.S. public education for underserved youth.

“This is my Harley Davidson Fatboy FXFSTF,“ said Springsteen. “I bought this bike from a friend in 1993. I did some light customizing and put 9,000 happy miles on it on the backroads of New Jersey. It’s got straight pipes, a McConey carburator, HD saddlebags, custom handle bars, forward controls and foot pegs. It’s extremely reliable and a great cruiser. So, if you’re “Born to Run,” this bike’s for you!"

The auction ends on January 8 and can be accessed here.

Also on sale to benefit the Andre Agassi Foundation is the chance to have a private soccer lesson with David Beckham at the LA Academy he set up to give young, aspiring athletes the chance to develop their skills, learn about teamwork, healthy living and, above all, understand the importance of having fun every time they step on the pitch. This auction ends on December 11, so you had better be quick. It can be accessed here.

And if music is your thing, then you will want to grab hold of the Andre Agassi Foundation’s special celebrity-signed Fender Stratocaster guitar. This once-in-a-lifetime item was autographed at the Summer of Stars Malibu Beach Parties by the Jonas Brothers, James Taylor, Pink, Donny Osmond, Boyz II Men, comedian George Wallace, Emeril Lagasse and many others! This auction ends on January 8, and you can find it here.

If the idea of an autographed guitar excites you, then maybe you will be interested in the rare WANDRE guitar signed by Eddie Vedder and the members of Pearl Jam to benefit Red Feather, a charity that builds sustainable homes for American Indian families. This is another sale you’ll have to be quick for – it ends on December 12 – and you can view it here.

Or maybe you would be more interested in guitars signed by the Jonas Brothers or 3 Doors Down. Both these items are going under the hammer for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research, a non-profit organization that funds leading junior investigators whose work represents cutting-edge thinking in both conventional and integrative disciplines which focus on prevention, treatment and quality of life issues of leukemia, lymphoma and other related cancers. Also included in this auction are the chance to have dinner with astronaut Buzz Aldrin and spend a day with Petra Nemcova. These auctions all end on December 16 and can be found at www.charitybuzz.com.

So there can be no excuse for just finding socks under the tree this year.

Grab Heidi Klum's Jacket For 15 Below

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Fancy slipping into a jacket signed by supermodel Heidi Klum or Sir Elton John? Now’s your chance – the 15 Below Project’s charity auction has been extended.

The 15 Below Project is an initiative between clothes designers TAXI and The Salvation Army to create a cheap but high quality jacket for the homeless.

“It’s a lifeline for people without homes. They’re a pretty low-cost, immediate way to address a huge issue,” said Paul Lavoie, co-founder, chairman, and chief creative officer of TAXI. “Our approach to solving problems – of any sort – has always been to question convention. This won’t eliminate homelessness, but it can make a lot of people more comfortable.“

Since November, celebrity-signed 15 Below jackets have been on auction, with stars such as Michael Stipe, Kid Rock, Robert Plant, Michael Caine, Jon Stewart and Nelly Furtado autographing the items. Although those auctions have finished, Klum and Sir Elton have now come to the party by donating signed jackets.

But wait – there’s more! Klum hasn’t only donated a jacket, but has also included two pairs of jeans from the clothing line she designed for Jordache.

These auctions end on December 11. The jackets have multiple pockets and are both warm and waterproof. When not being worn, the jacket can be folded into a backpack for easy transportation, or used as a pillow. To bid on Heidi Klum’s jacket and jeans, click here, and for Sir Elton’s item, click here.

Charity Day Stars Announced

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

As reported by Look To The Stars last week, ICAP – the world’s premier interdealer broker – will hold its 16th annual global Charity Day on Wednesday, 10 December. On this day, all company revenues will be donated to over 100 charities around the world. We can now reveal some of the stars confirmed to make appearances.

Heading the lineup will be Meryl Streep and Julianne Moore. They will be joined by tennis ace Anna Kournikova, race car champion Jeff Gordon, and football legends Joe Montana and Boomer Esiason.

The stars will be appearing at Harborside Financial Center, Plaza 5, Jersey City between 9am and 5pm to rally employee enthusiasm and interact with clients to help boost trading volumes.

Charities that will benefit from the ICAP Charity Day – which has raised over $84 million for charities around the world since ist inception – include Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of America, Communities in Schools, Equality Now, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; NY Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Center; Partners In Health; Stop Hunger Now; The Boomer Esiason Foundation; Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance; and the Four Rings Montana Family Foundation.

There will be more surprise guests on the day, so stay tuned to Look To The Stars for more information.

Have Lunch In Style With New Celebrity Auction

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

It’s that time of year again – time for the Annual Celebrity Lunchbox Auction to benefit the Food Bank For New York City.

The Lunchbox Auction is a non-profit organization that runs a yearly auction of celebrity designed lunchboxes and splits the proceeds between the Food Bank For New York City and The Lunchbox Fund, a foundation that provides lunch to pre and high school children in South Africa.

This year’s auction includes lunchboxes designed and signed by celebrities such as Mario Batali, Beastie Boys, Gwyneth Paltrow, David Chang, Tom Colicchio, Salman Rushdie, Cameron Diaz, the cast of Gossip Girls, Rachael Ray, Eva Mendes, Mike Myers, Ellen Page, Michael Stipe, Liv Tyler, Diane Von Furstenberg, and many others.

The auction starts on December 12 at www.thelunchboxauction.org. For a special sneak peak of some of the items, click here.

3 Doors Down Play Gig For A Better Life

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rockers 3 Doors Down performed a charity gig at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi, on Saturday night, December 6, to raise money for their Better Life Foundation.

The show marked the fifth time the Jackson County-based band – whose hits include Kryptonite – has held the annual concert, with proceeds going to Mississippi victims of Hurricane Katrina.

“Well it’s always great to be back on the coast and especially during the holiday season, and this is our fifth event for the foundation,“ said guitarist Matt Roberts. “We’re excited to be, here to get it done and have a great show tonight.”

The concert included an auction of rock memorabilia and items such as an Army National Guard themed Harley Davidson. The band also met 15-year-old Kaleb Miller as part of a Make-A-Wish Foundation wish, and donated $10,000 to the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of South Mississippi.

The mission of The Better Life Foundation is to make a positive change in the lives of children in need of food, shelter and medical assistance, and to enhance the lives of children and young adults with special needs. The money that is raised is distributed to organizations and hospitals that offer children a better life in which they can develop their potential, achieve their goals, and, become caring and responsible adults.

More info about the charity can be found at www.thebetterlifefoundation.org.

Curtis Granderson Announces Charity Weekend & Celebrity Basketball Game

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Detroit Tigers outfielder Curtis Granderson and his Grand Kids Foundation will host their second annual Celebrity Shootout on Saturday, January 17, at Lake Orion High School north of Detroit.

“Now more than ever, Michigan’s public schools need assistance,” Granderson said. “The goal of this year’s event is to raise funds to help the individual students in these public schools, whether it’s for assistance with school supplies or college scholarships. Last year, I was so proud of the way the community not only came out to support this event, but to support the inner-city schools in Michigan. The players had fun, the fans had fun and the schools benefited. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better.”

‘Bigger and better’ will include a full weekend of activities, such as an evening of food and comedy the night before tip-off. Granderson will again act as coach for the basketball game, which will pair up former Detroit-area athletes with local and national celebrities.

Expected to take part are former University of Michigan head football coach Lloyd Carr, WNBA Detroit Shock forward Sheryl Ford, former Detroit Lions All-Pro players Herman Moore and Lomas Brown, former Michigan football and NFL standout Tyrone Wheatley, former Super Bowl MVP and Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard, UFC star “Sugar” Rashad Evans, professional boxing super-middleweight Andre Dirrell, 2008 Miss America winner Kirsten Haglund, ESPN anchor Dana Jacobson, 2007 Playboy Playmate of the Year Sara Jean Underwood, Joe Faris (Project Runway) and some dunking acrobatics courtesy of And1 Mixtape Tour star “Springs.”

More athletes and personalities are expected to commit as the event nears.

“This is an amazing group of early commitments for this game — both players and coaches,” Granderson said. “We not only have a lot of great athletes, but we have a lot of great personalities, which will make this a fun atmosphere for not only those of us involved in the game, but the fans that will be coming out.”

Tickets to the game are $20 for adults and $15 for students with a student ID, including collegians. A VIP ticket for $60 includes access to the after-party. Each ticket at any level will be put into a raffle for prizes such as a private batting practice with Granderson, Tigers tickets and gift certificates to local businesses.
Tickets for the dinner and comedy show run at $75 per person, or $110 with access to the afterglow party, and must be purchased by Jan. 6.
Those who wish to attend all the events can buy an all-access pass for $150.

Advance tickets for each event at various levels are available on the Grand Kids Foundation Web site at www.grandkidsfoundation.org or at www.curtisgranderson.com

Nicole Richie Wants To Give You A Fruitcake For Christmas

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 14:00:00 -0000

Tony Hawk, Nicole Richie and Fall Out Boy are on a mission to “re-gift” the classic fruitcake this Christmas with a new charity application on Facebook.

“The fruitcake has always been a bad gift. You never eat it or keep it. You just always end up re-gifting it,” said skateboarding legend Tony Hawk. “This year we’re changing the fruitcake and making it a symbol of giving and charity.”

Two-pound fruitcake bricks will be given away through a PayPal application on Facebook to benefit the stars’ favorite charities. Recipients will be invited via a personal video to contribute through PayPal to the charities and “re-gift” the fruitcake to friends and family all across the world.

“We’re trying out different kinds of technology and approaches to get people involved and learn about causes,” said Joel Madden. “This time, it’s a fruitcake.”

Celebrities will kick off the fruitcake’s virtual voyage starting with 10 friends each. As the fruitcakes make their way across Facebook, recipients can choose to donate to the celebrity’s cause or continue the fruitcake’s journey simply by re-gifting to friends for free. The Re-gift the Fruitcake program is presented by PayPal, which will make a $20,000 donation to each celebrity charity.

The charities that will benefit from the initiative include the Tony Hawk Foundation, the Jimmie Johnson Foundation, the Yao Ming Foundation, the Richie Madden Children’s Foundation, the Ben Roethlisberger Foundation, and Invisible Children.

“By re-gifting this fruitcake you will help build more than 8,000 Classrooms and give children the education they deserve,” said Houston Rockets’ Center Yao Ming.

The initiative can be accessed through http://apps.facebook.com/regiftthefruitcake or www.regiftthefruitcake.com.

Stars Rally For ICAP World Charity Day

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 11:30:00 -0000

ICAP (IAP.L), the world’s premier interdealer broker, will hold its 16th annual global Charity Day on Wednesday, 10 December, 2008. On this day, all company revenues will be donated to over 100 charities around the world.

Since the inception of Charity Day in 1993, ICAP has raised over £42 million ($84 million) for many well-deserving and needy causes worldwide. In 2007, the company raised a record £9.2 million ($18.8 million) globally on Charity Day.

As part of the day’s activities, ICAP will host several of the charities’ celebrity spokespeople to rally employee enthusiasm and interact with clients to boost trading volumes. Bill Clinton and Prince William, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox and musicians Jon Bon Jovi and Elton John are among those who have lent their support at ICAP offices in past years.

Michael Spencer, Group Chief Executive Officer, said, “In difficult economic times it is even more important to support charities. Through ICAP Charity Day, we will be donating to over 100 charities worldwide this year. I want to thank all of our customers, staff and suppliers for all their help in previous years, and I call on them to go the extra mile this year and support Charity Day whole-heartedly. Remember, on Charity Day, Every Deal Counts.”

In New York, ICAP is supporting numerous charities, including: Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of America, Communities in Schools, Equality Now, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; NY Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Center; Partners In Health; Stop Hunger Now; The Boomer Esiason Foundation; Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance; and the Four Rings Montana Family Foundation.

In Louisville, ICAP is supporting: Brooklawn Child & Family Services; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; Down Syndrome of Louisville; Make-A-Wish Foundation, Metro United Way, Parent Project for Muscular Dystrophy; The Healing Place; The Home of the Innocents; and The Stan W. Browning Melanoma Foundation.

In Chicago, ICAP is supporting: 826Chicago and LUNGevity Foundation. And in Toronto, ICAP is supporting the Sick Kids Foundation.

A full list of the global beneficiaries can be found at www.icapcharityday.com.

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