Look To The Stars News: Jon Bon Jovi

Eagles Founder Glenn Frey Busy With Charity Work

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:00:00 -0000

Eagles singer Glenn Frey acted as honorary chairman for the 2010 grand auction to benefit the Boys' and Girls' Club of Coachella Valley on Saturday, March 13, at the Hyatt Grand Champions Resort in Indian Wells, California.

“I’ve been helping kids — at-risk kids — for a long time,” he told The Desert Sun last week. “Thirty years. It seems like now times are even more troubled for young people.”

The rock legend first became active in children’s charities in the 1990s, when he started hosting inner-city kids in Colorado each summer.

Next weekend, Frey will coninue his charity work by headlining Celebrity Fight Night XVI at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix.

Over the past 15 years, Celebrity Fight Night has raised nearly $60 million. Celebrities and professional athletes from all over the country join Muhammad Ali each year for this action-packed night filled with incredible live auction items and musical performances by many of today’s brightest stars. Previous guests include Jon Bon Jovi, Kevin Costner, Faith Hill, Whitney Houston, Diana Ross, Sharon Stone, Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Donald Trump, Jim Carrey, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Larry King, Garth Brooks, Dennis Quaid and many more.

Celebrity Fight Night Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1994 by Jimmy Walker to support the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, as well as numerous other charities. For more information, visit www.celebrityfightnight.org or www.facebook.com/celebrityfightnight.

Glenn Frey To Headline Celebrity Charity Fight Night

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:30:00 -0000

Glenn Frey of the Eagles, one of the world’s most successful rock bands having sold more than 120 million albums, will headline the entertainment at Celebrity Fight Night XVI on Saturday, March 20th at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, AZ.

Celebrating his 50th year on the world stage, Muhammad Ali will receive a special introduction from Grammy Award-winning producer and American Idol judge, Randy Jackson during the event.

Joining Frey is Grammy Award-winning leading lady of country music Reba McEntire, who will return for her fifth year as emcee as well as 15-time Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer, David Foster, who will serve as musical director for his 11th consecutive year.

Receiving the Muhammad Ali Sports Achievement Award is sensational IZOD IndyCar Series and NASCAR driver, Danica Patrick. Additionally, one of Hollywood’s most influential film producers Jerry Weintraub, will be honored with the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award and Forbes 400 businessman and philanthropist, Walter Scott, Jr., will be recognized with the Muhammad Ali Business Leadership Award. Guests will enjoy additional performances by Reba McEntire, Charice, Michael Johns, The Canadian Tenors, Sam Moore and Melissa Peterman. Following the event, The John Corbett Band will provide the after party entertainment.

Joseph Cinque along with the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences will present “The Dinner of the Century” created with the unparalleled direction of the most celebrated chef and only Six Star chef in the world, Jean-Georges Vongerichten. For the latest news, visit the newly unveiled website at celebrityfightnight.org or facebook.com/celebrityfightnight.

Celebrity Fight Night Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1994 by Jimmy Walker to support the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, as well as numerous other charities. Sponsoring this year’s event are CA, Climatec, US Airways, Casino Arizona, Federal Express and Flight Options. For more information, visit www.celebrityfightnight.org or www.facebook.com/celebrityfightnight.

Individual tickets range from $2,000 to $5,000 each. For reservations, please call (602) 956-1121.

Simon Cowell's Charity Single Smashes Records

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Simon Cowell's star-studded cover of Everybody Hurts aimed at benefiting Haitian earthquake victims has become the fastest selling charity single of the century.

Sales have topped 200,000 in just two days, and the single is on course to smash the first week sales of any single in ten years.

The version of REM’s Everybody Hurts includes contributions from Leona Lewis, Kylie Minogue, Rod Stewart, Robbie Williams, Gary Barlow, Take That, Jon Bon Jovi, Mariah Carey and many others. Funds will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee and The Sun’s Helping Haiti campaign.

Simon Cowell's Charity Single To Hit Shops Next Week

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Simon Cowell's charity single for Haiti has had its first airplay, and will be available for download from February 7 and in shops from February 8.

The version of REM’s Everybody Hurts includes contributions from Leona Lewis, Kylie Minogue, Rod Stewart, Robbie Williams, Gary Barlow, Take That, Jon Bon Jovi, Mariah Carey and many others.

The single can be ordered at mV.com, play.com and amazon.co.uk. Funds will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee and The Sun’s Helping Haiti campaign. To listen to a sneak preview, click here.

Jon Bon Jovi Helps With ICAP Charity Day

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:00:00 -0000

ICAP, the world’s premier interdealer broker, held its 17th annual global Charity Day on Wednesday, December 9, 2009. 100% of company revenues and commissions for the day will be donated to a selection of over 120 charities around the world.

Since the inception of Charity Day in 1993, ICAP has raised over $100 million for more than 700 well-deserving causes worldwide. In 2008, the company raised a record $16.3 million globally on Charity Day.

As part of the day’s activities, ICAP hosted several of the charities’ celebrity spokespeople to rally employee enthusiasm and interact with clients to boost trading volumes. Those stars who attended the global events included Jon Bon Jovi, who raised money for the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, race car driver Danica Patrick – who raised money for the Danica Patrick Foundation – and golf legend Jack Nicklaus, who raised money for the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation & The Bogart Pediatric Cancer Research Program.

More info can be found here.

Win Dave Stewart's New Book From Nelson Mandela's Charity

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00:00 -0000

46664 Ambassador Dave Stewart has just released his new book “The Dave Stewart Songbook” and the charity has a signed copy to give away.

This stunning 300-page work of art contains stories by the legendary Eurythmics co-founder, songwriter and producer Dave Stewart. These are revealing and intimate stories behind some of his many smash-hit songs written with Annie Lennox, Bono, Mick Jagger, Jon Bon Jovi, Gwen Stefani and Bob Geldof, including his work on the Nelson Mandela 46664 song “American Prayer”.

  Included are never-before-published photographs of these international superstars, many of which were shot by Dave Stewart, a renowned photographer himself. This wonderful package also comes with a double-CD set of all 21 hit songs newly recorded by Dave Stewart & His 30-piece Rock Fabulous Orchestra along with the sheet music to each track. This is an amazing book for universal music fans and contains a foreword by Bob Dylan.  

46664 is Nelson Mandela’s campaign to help raise Global awareness of AIDS/HIV. 46664 aims to highlight the emergency of AIDS/HIV through unique live events and music related initiatives.

To enter the competition, visit the 46664 website before December 13.

ICAP To Hold 17th Annual Charity Day

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:00:00 -0000

ICAP, the world’s premier interdealer broker, will hold its 17th annual global Charity Day on Wednesday, 9 December, 2009. On this day, 100% of company revenues and commissions will be donated to a selection of over 120 charities around the world.

Since the inception of ICAP Charity Day, ICAP and its customers in over 50 countries have raised funds for over 700 well-deserving charities globally. This year, ICAP will be supporting a further 120 charities globally, almost 30 in North America alone. Last year, $16.3 million was raised on Charity Day, bringing the total to over $100 million since 1993. These funds went towards such diverse programs in North America as helping sick children, supporting literacy, and funding cancer research.

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 help boost trading volumes. Prince William, Prince Harry, Bill Clinton, actors Meryl Streep and Denzel Washington, and musicians Jon Bon Jovi and Elton John have been a few of those who have lent their support at ICAP offices in past years.

Michael Spencer, Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “The last couple of years have proven to be a very challenging environment for many in the financial services industry, but it’s now more important than ever that ICAP continues to give to those in need. We are committed to our charitable projects and will be donating to over 120 charities worldwide this year. We want to sincerely thank all those who will make Charity Day happen this year, including our staff and suppliers, and especially our many customers – thank you for making every deal count this year on Charity Day.”

This year ICAP is supporting close to 30 charities in North America, including: 826CHI, Addi’s Faith Foundation, ANNIKA Foundation, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Louisville, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle, The Cabbage Patch Settlement House, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Danica Patrick Foundation, Educa, Home of the Innocents, Indian Summer Camp, LUNGevity Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Metro United Way, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Nantz Family Foundation, Parent Project for Muscular Dystrophy, PeyBack Foundation, Shriners Hospitals for Children, SickKids Foundation, Stan W. Browning Melanoma Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, The V Foundation, Visually Impaired Preschool Services, Volunteers of America, and Women's Sports Foundation.

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

Early Tickets To Farm Aid Go On Sale Today

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Pre-sale tickets to this year’s Farm Aid concert are available today, July 17.

The concert will take place on October 4 at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Maryland Heights, Missouri. The annual event is set to include Farm Aid board members Neil Young, Willie Nelson, Dave Matthews and John Mellencamp, with more acts to be announced soon.

“Just as rock & roll is loud and proud, so is Farm Aid,” said Neil Young. “Farm Aid’s greatest accomplishment, I believe, is in the spirit. It’s the fact that we represent the spirit of the good fight, to keep something good happening. It just keeps getting stronger and stronger….”

Now entering its 24th year, Farm Aid has raised more than $23 million for family farms and organic agricultural initiatives since the first concert in 1985. A plethora of stars have appeared at the concerts to increase awareness of the importance of family farms over the years, including Jon Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, Vince Gill, Sammy Hagar, Don Henley, Billy Joel, Charley Pride, and Lou Reed.

Every year Farm Aid funds farm support organizations that assist farmers with services including financial and credit counseling, legal advice, and disaster and emergency services. However, without the nation’s attention and support, Farm Aid’s work could not continue. It is the annual high-profile concert that ultimately keeps Farm Aid alive and running.

Pre-sale tickets are only available to Farm Aid members. General public tickets go on sale July 25. To find out more or purchase tickets, visit the official website.

Jon Bon Jovi Records Song For Iran

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Jon Bon Jovi has recorded a song with exiled Iranian singer Andy Madadian in “a musical message of worldwide solidarity” to the Iranian people in the aftermath of the country’s recent disputed election.

The version of Ben E King’s Stand By Me is sung in both English and Farsi, and features Richie Sambora, John Shanks and Don Was. Was – who co-produced the track – told Billboard magazine that the recording session came about after he talked with Madadian about “whether there was something we could do just to send out a little message of solidarity, remembering the ’60s, believing music can change things.”

“It is not for sale,” Was says. “It wasn’t intended to be on the Billboard charts, wasn’t meant to be a hit record or even pressed on a CD. It’s intended to be downloaded and shared by the Iranian people. The whole idea was to get it into Iran and tell them…to carry on, that the world is watching and we’re with you.”

To view the song, click here.

Celebrity Charity Auction Raises Funds For Museum

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A new charity auction is giving you the chance to bid on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and items to raise money for a state-of-the-art museum in New York City designed to highlight the achievements of songwriting greats and acknowledge their rightful place in culture.

Going under the hammer are opportunities to have lunch with Smashing Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan, backstage meet-and-greets with Cher, Jason Mraz, Wynonna, Chris Daughtry, Clint Black and Bonnie Raitt, as well as guitars signed by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora and Peter Wentz, handwritten lyrics signed by Paul Simon, Rob Thomas and Carley Simon, and other items signed by Elvis Costello, Julianne Hough, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, John Mayer, and much more.

The new museum facility will serve as a resource and center of study for scholars, aspiring songwriters, students and music lovers young and old to learn about America’s musical heritage.

To view the auction, click here.

Tom Brady Bikes For Best Buddies

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Aime Pingi

Quarterback of the New England Patriots of the National Football League, Tom Brady, joined Best Buddies International on the weekend of May 30 as honorary chairman of the Best Buddies bike challenge ride of Boston.

The Audi Best Buddies Challenge (ABBC) cycling event and the Carl Lewis Walk/Run Challenge are exciting adventures along a challenging and beautiful course, with active participation and inclusion of athletes with intellectual disabilities, that ends with a star-studded celebrity criterium race. 100% of the money raised by participants benefits Best Buddies International in carrying out its mission of providing friends and jobs for people with intellectual disabilities.

The ABBC weekend has the feel of a big family gathering, as participants, celebrities and new buddies ride side-by-side. The ride finishes with a one-of-a-kind post-ride party, including a concert and dinner. Past concert performers range from The Black Eyed Peas, Jon Bon Jovi, Marc Anthony to The B52’s!

Past notable guests at Best Buddies events include athletes like Carl Lewis, as well as celebrities Cindy Crawford, Robert De Niro and Kevin Spacey, to name just a few!

Best Buddies is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing friends and jobs for people with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to more than 1,400 middle school, high school and college campuses across the country and internationally. Best Buddies volunteers annually contribute services that estimate a value of $70 million – at no cost to the community.

Today, Best Buddies programs annually impact the lives of more than 350,000 volunteers and people with intellectual disabilities in hundreds of communities around the world.

Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis, Miss Teen USA Stevi Perry, The Brady Brunch actress Maureen McCormick and Mini Me movie star Verne Troyer also got into gear for the ride to aid people with intellectual disabilities.

If you missed out on the Boston Best Buddies ride with Tom Brady, there’ll be another in LA with Maria Shriver in September.

Muhammad Ali Attends Celebrity Fight Night

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

The legend himself, Muhammad Ali, was the guest of honor at Celebrity Fight Night XV, held at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona, on Saturday. And this year’s event once again lived up to its reputation as one the nation’s largest fundraising efforts, as celebrities and sport stars lined up to support the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center.

Since it’s inception 15 years ago, Celebrity Fight Night has raised more than $52 million for the Muhammad Ali Parkinson’s Center in Phoenix and other charities.

Country star Reba McEntire emceed the event for the fourth time, while guests such as Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner and Forest Whitaker were this year’s honorees who ‘best represented the qualities associated with the Champ and his fight to find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.’

Kurt Warner, who received the Sports Leadership Award, said, “We’re just blessed. God put us in a position to try to make an impact and you receive honors like this and you accept them humbly.”

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, who received the Sports Achievement Award, couldn’t have been happier. “It is good to be here with so many great people and Muhammad Ali especially,” he said. “I had the privilege of meeting him 4 years ago so being here and being with everyone it is a special night.”

Actor Forest Whitaker received the Entertainer Award and President of Kinray, the largest privately held drug distributor in the U.S, Stewart Rahr, received the Entrepreneur Award.

Guests also enjoyed musical performances by Jon Bon Jovi, Charice Pempengco, Ray Firestone and Michael Johns, while bidding on some incredible auction items. Celebrities in attendance included: Bo Derek, Jordin Sparks and Josh Groban among others.

Jon Bon Jovi To Be Honored At Food Bank Event

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Mark down April 21 on your calendars for the annual Food Bank For New York City Can-Do Dinner, this year honoring Jon Bon Jovi.

The Food Bank For New York City coordinates the distribution of food donations from manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and government agencies to organizations providing free food to the city’s hungry. They work tirelessly towards their goal of feeding the hungry, and have chosen Jon Bon Jovi as this year’s honoree because of his efforts in making the world a better place.

The event will be held at Abigail Kirsch’s Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers, on the corner of 23 Street and the Hudson River, and will kick off at 6pm with cocktails, followed by a dinner, live auction, and musical performance.

MC for the event is Stanley Tucci, who is a member of the Board of Directors for the Food Bank, and co-chairs include Michael Stipe and Mario Batali.

For tickets and more information about the event, click here

Bid On Celeb-Signed Guitars For Charity

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Today is your last day to bid on autographed Fender Stratocaster guitars from Universal Music Group artists 3 Doors Down, Bon Jovi, Maroon 5 and Nickelback to benefit the TJ Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research.

The T. J Martell Foundation, founded in 1975 by Columbia/Sony music industry executive Tony Martell in memory of his son – a victim of leukemia – has since raised more than $230 million over 33-years to combat the world’s three most deadliest diseases – leukemia, cancer, and AIDS.

Also up for auction are CDs signed by Rihanna, Kings Of Leon, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, Sarah McLachlan, Avril Lavigne and many more.

To make a bid, visit the special eBay page – but you have to hurry, you only have a few hours left.

Join Jon Bon Jovi For St Patrick's Day Charity Show

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Nonprofit organization Hannah and Friends will hold a benefit dinner, the “St. Patrick’s Day Gala with Coach Weis and Jon Bon Jovi,” on March 12 (Thursday) in New York City. University of Notre Dame head football coach Charlie Weis will host the event, and music icon Jon Bon Jovi will present a special live performance.

Dinner will take place at the historic Waldorf Astoria Hotel, and reservations are now being accepted. Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg of ESPN will serve as masters of ceremonies. In attendance as honorary chairmen will be former Notre Dame football players and National Football League celebrities Bill Belichick, Antonio Pierce, Jesse Armstead, Mark Bavaro, Sean Landeta, Brady Quinn, John Carlson, Anthony Fasano, and Tom Zbikowski. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on autographed sports memorabilia at a silent auction held before dinner.

Individuals or organizations interested in tickets or event sponsorship opportunities should contact Hannah and Friends at (574) 273-9824 or info@hannahandfriends.org. A limited number of sponsorship packages, featuring photographs with Bon Jovi and tickets to a private reception, are still available.

Hannah and Friends, founded by Weis and his wife Maura in honor of their daughter, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and adults with special needs. In addition to providing monetary grants to families caring for individuals with special needs, the foundation also fosters an ongoing campaign promoting “Awareness and Compassion.” 2009 marks the first year of operation at Hannah and Friends Farm, a residential community in Northern Indiana for adults with special needs, and development of the property is ongoing. Additional details about the organization can be found at www.hannahandfriends.org.

Join Jon Bon Jovi At Celebrity Fight Night Gala

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Celebrity Fight Night Foundation has announced that former MVP and current NFL Arizona Cardinals Pro Bowl quarterback Kurt Warner will be honored with the Muhammad Ali Sports Leadership Award at the 15th annual Celebrity Fight Night gala in March.

The event will take place on Saturday, March 28, at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona, and will be hosted by Reba McEntire with entertainment from Jon Bon Jovi. Olympian Michael Phelps will be presented with the Muhammad Ali Sports Achievement Award.

“We are thrilled to recognize Kurt Warner with this award given his outstanding accomplishments over the years and his veteran leadership,” said Jimmy Walker, Founder and Chairman of Celebrity Fight Night. “We wish Kurt Warner and the Cardinals the best of luck in the playoffs!”

Founded in 1994, the foundation raises funds through this annual charity event. Recognized as one of the nation’s elite charity events, Celebrity Fight Night is a star-studded evening presented in honor of Muhammad Ali. Celebrities and professional athletes from all over the country participate in a night filled with incredible Live Auction items and live musical performances by many of today’s brightest stars. Over $52 million has been raised over the last 14 years, with the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute as the primary beneficiary.

Individual tickets range from $1,500 to $5,000 each, and can be purchased here.

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.

Bid 2 Beat AIDS Auction Jam-Packed With Stars

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

December 1st marked World AIDS Day. It was also the first day of BID 2 BEAT AIDS's 4th annual charity auction.

Fans of celebrities in film, music, television, sports and Broadway have 10 days to bid on eBay for autographed items, VIP seats, original art, costumes and props, memorabilia, exclusive events and meet-and-greets from a legion of stars.

Autographs range from CDs by stars like Bon Jovi and Amy Winehouse, books signed by Madonna and Kevin Bacon, posters signed by Jake Gyllenhaal, Owen Wilson, and Matthew McConaughey, DVDs signed by Will Ferrell and Steven Spielberg, and toys, clothes, instruments and other memorabilia.

For those who crave concerts, VIP seats and backstage meet-and-greets with stars such as the Jonas Brothers, Tony Bennett, Jewel, Bernadette Peters, Harry Connick Jr. and Joan Rivers are up for auction. Olympic champion Michael Phelps and skateboarder Tony Hawk are also available for meet-and-greets, as is Paul Shaffer at The Late Show with David Letterman.

Previous Bid 2 Beat AIDS auctions have raised nearly $250,000, and this year’s proceeds are hoped to reach at least that. The proceeds will benefit LIFEbeat, dedicated to AIDs prevention, awareness and support.

Jon Bon Jovi Bares His Soul

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Jon Bon Jovi has revealed how he was inspired to establish the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, the charity he set up in 2006 to combat issues that force families and individuals into economic despair.

“I picked the idea of affordable housing and breaking the chains of poverty because one night I was viewing out of a hotel window in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – the birthplace of our nation, the place where our forefathers wrote the Declaration of Independence,” said the 46-year-old singer. “As I saw a man sleeping on the steps of the City Hall in the middle of the winter I thought this isn’t what they were thinking at the time. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or you’re old, you’re rich or you’re poor, you’re white, you’re black, Republican or Democrat – homelessness can affect anyone at any given time.”

Bon Jovi named the Foundation after the arena football team he co-owns – the Philadelphia Soul – and uses it to fund and create of programs and partnerships to support innovative community efforts to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Their goal is to recognize and maximize the human potential of those affected by poverty and homelessness, and provide affordable housing, social services, and job training programs.
Ever since he bought the team, Bon Jovi’s intention was to ensure that the Soul was different from other sports franchises – everything the Soul does includes a charitable component, it is the cornerstone of the team’s identity. All members of the team are encouraged to be positive role models for children (players, dance team members and the team mascot regularly make public appearances at non-profit and charity events, schools and hospitals), and even the fans do their part to make a difference – from donating teddy bears to abused children, to giving school supplies to Katrina-ravaged towns, and even supplying backpacks to needy children in Philadelphia.

To find out more about the Foundation, visit their website.

Farm Aid 2008 To Rock New England

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rocker John Mellencamp has unveiled the main acts set to kick up a storm at Farm Aid 2008.

The concert – which will take place on September 20 – will be held for the first time in New England, and will see performances by Mellencamp, Neil Young, Dave Matthews, and Willie Nelson, all of which are on the board of directors for Farm Aid. More acts will be announced over the next few weeks.

“We are proud to bring our annual Farm Aid concert to a region that has such strong agricultural roots and to the many people who love to eat the good food grown in New England,” said Nelson, Farm Aid’s president. “I’m looking forward to bringing my friends together on the Farm Aid stage to celebrate and support family farmers.”

Now entering its 23rd year, Farm Aid has raised more than $23 million for family farms and organic agricultural initiatives since the first concert in 1985. A plethora of stars have appeared at the concerts to increase awareness of the importance of family farms over the years, including Jon Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, Vince Gill, Sammy Hagar, Don Henley, Billy Joel, Charley Pride, and Lou Reed.

“New England was built on the strength of independent family farmers,” said Mellencamp. “We can honor that independent spirit by joining Farm Aid to grow the movement that is changing the way all of America eats.”

The concert will take place at the Comcast Arena in Mansfield. Tickets go on sale July 28 through Ticketmaster.

Bon Jovi Ticket Packages Up For Grabs

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Bon Jovi guitartist Richie Sambora is auctioning off a special concert package to raise money for a young New Jersey girl who is suffering from a brain cyst.

Kelly Mahon, a senior from Woodbridge High, underwent a massive 14-hour operation last fall to remove the cyst. However, following complications, the teenager had to be heavily medicated and kept on a respirator. Although still hospitalized, she is off the respirator and doctors say she may be able to go home soon.

Sambora – who is also a Woodbridge High graduate – has offered two Bon Jovi packages for next week’s shows at Madison Square Garden to help raise funds for Kelly. Each package includes four tickets, four side-of-stage seats, four autographed T-shirts signed by members of the band, a Bon Jovi autographed guitar, and the chance to meet Sambora backstage before the shows.

The 49-year-old guitarist will be on hand to auction the packages at 9 am today, Friday July 11, on WPLJ (95.5FM) in New York. The starting bid for each is $1,500, and the number to call to place your bid is 1-800-321-9755.

Bon Jovi Gives Hope To Those Living On A Prayer

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rocker Jon Bon Jovi was in Detroit’s East Side on Monday to announce the building of five new homes as part of a partnership between his Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, Habitat For Humanity, and local retailers Saturn.

The homes – which are only a few of the 100 planned by Habitat for Humanity in the next few years – will be built by November, and Bon Jovi is extremely excited about the prospect of helping people in the area.

“We really want to revitalize the neighborhood…so that the kids can play in these streets,” he said. “That’s what America is all about.”

The 46-year-old singer began working with Habitat for Humanity in 2005 and has made it his mission to draw attention to the need for affordable housing nationwide through his Soul Foundation – named after the arena football team he co-owns, the Philadelphia Soul.

“The Soul Foundation has really differentiated itself from other sports teams both in Philadelphia and around the nation by making community a huge part of its mission statement,” he said.

Bon Jovi was in Detroit to play a concert at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Monday night as part of the band’s “Lost Highway” tour.

“I wanted to give something back to you,” the singer told the crowd that gathered at the site of the new homes just before he left. “But I have to go to my day job now.”

Bon Jovi Headline Charity Concert

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 11:28:56 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Bon Jovi has headlined the first concert in a charity series to raise funds for lung cancer research.

The show was held at Manhattan’s Hammerstein Ballroom on Tuesday, February 12, to a capacity crowd of 3,500, with proceeds going to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering, a facility that specializes in lung cancer. The Center is also where Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora's father received treatment for the disease before his death last year.

“Cancer is relentless; you can’t stop it,” said Sambora, who opened the concert with a 30 minute set of solo material. “Hopefully this money will help find answers.”

The concert was organized by Stand Up For A Cure, and is expected to be the first of a yearlong series to benefit the cancer center. The organization hopes to pull together at least seven concerts in that time, and have already confirmed a stand-up performance from Jerry Seinfeld on June 2 at Madison Square Garden, a concert with Brian Wilson and special guests at the Hammerstein Ballroom on July 11, and a performance by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli set for a to-be-determined date in December.

Jordan Belkin, Executive Producer for Stand Up For A Cure, hopes the concert series will not only raise money for cancer research but also awareness for what he calls a “severely under-funded” disease.

“It’s the number one cause of cancer-related deaths in the world,” he told Billboard.com. “We need to get the message out and get money into the programs that are offering a potential cure for treatment. By groups like Bon Jovi donating their time and support to this cause, I think we’re getting closer to doing so.”

Celebrity Auctions Kick Off The New Year

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 10:24:10 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The new year has kicked off with a flurry of celebrity charity auctions, with items for sale to benefit a plethora of worthwhile causes and issues.

The American Civil Liberties Union is a national organization that advocates individual rights by litigating, legislating, and educating the public on a broad range of issues, including free speech, AIDS, human rights, racism, and more. The Southern California branch of ACLU has launched an auction on www.charityfolks.com to raise much-needed funds.

Items up for auction until January 3 include lunch with Jake Gyllenhaal on the set of his new film, a framed and autographed art print by Viggo Mortensen, the chance to dine with Harry Belafonte or Mike Farrell, a signed T shirt and photo from Danny Glover, and original artwork from singer Maria McKee, and an autographed copy of Corinne Bailey Rae's single, “I’d Like To”.

Also up for auction on the Charity Folks website are 12 twelve very special packages to see Hilary Duff in concert. VIP tickets and the chance to go backstage to meet the young diva are included, and the concerts are being held across the US, Mexico, and Australia.

Proceeds from the auction will go to Blessings in a Backpack, a program run by USA Harvest to generate public awareness of child hunger. The organization will use the money to assist in providing weekend meals to needy children and ensure that their nutritional requirements are met. The auction runs until January 25.

Virgin Unite has put several items up for auction, including a leather jacket designed and signed by Jon Bon Jovi, a guitar autographed by Jewel, and a cymbal signed by members of the Beastie Boys.

Virgin Unite is the non-profit entrepreneurial foundation of the Virgin Group, established by Richard Branson as a catalyst for business based solutions to social and environmental problems. The auction ends on January 3.

Artists for a New South Africa is a non-profit organization founded in 1979 to advance human rights in Africa, and now encompasses a whole raft of issues, including the fight against AIDS, assisting children orphaned by AIDS, and educating and empowering youth. They are offering some incredible items for auction until January 18, including original Star Wars comics signed by Samuel L. Jackson, a signed photo of ex-X Files star Gillian Anderson, and signed CDs from Mandy Moore.

And finally, the Friends and Helpers Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists victims of domestic violence, is auctioning items such as a Red Hot Chili Peppers poster signed by bass player Flea, a signed photo of Donald Trump, a flag autographed by Smashing Pumpkins singer Billy Corgan, and a guitar signed by LeAnn Rimes.

2008 looks set to be the year of celebrity giving.

2007 - The Year The Stars Gave Back

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 09:11:14 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

2007 was a year of giving, both on grand and not-so-grand scales. Celebrities from all fields, be it movies, music, sport or general entertainment, showed compassion beyond the call of duty, and in most cases had a lot of fun doing it.

Without a doubt, one of the biggest events of the year was Live Earth in July, where stars new and old shone in all of the corners of the Earth to raise awareness of the plight of the planet. The shows were generally well-received, and led to organizer Al Gore winning the Nobel Peace Prize.

But celebrities also participated in smaller, more personal acts of kindness in 2007. Harrison Ford, Calista Flockhart, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Melissa Gilbert, and Michael Douglas all donated their time to feed the hungry at the Los Angeles Mission, Fran Drescher launched the Cancer Schmancer Movement, and Ewan McGregor visited UNICEF projects during his epic motorcycle trip across Africa.

In January, Kevin Bacon launched www.sixdegrees.org, a website designed to marry the concepts of social internet networks and charities. The site aims to help people fundraise for their chosen causes, and features celebrities such as Kyra Sedgwick and Ashley Judd.

Bette Midler, founder of the New York Restoration Project, launched the Million Trees NYC initiative with Mayor Michael Bloomberg in October, to get city dwellers to plant more trees. The project plans to increase New York’s urban forest by 20% in the next ten years.

“To walk under the branches of a tree that you have planted connects you to the roots of our past and the aspirations of our future,” said the 62-year-old singer and actress.

Another singer with a sense of community in 2007 was Jon Bon Jovi who, as well as participating in various benefit concerts, also worked with Project HOME to revitalize a deteriorated lot in Philadelphia and transform it into homes for fifteen families.

And then there was Shakira, co-founder of the Latin America for Solidarity Fund and Pies Descalzos, who donated $40 million to victims of natural disasters in Peru and Nicaragua, and another $5 million to benefit education programs for children across Latin America.

The California wildfires that ravaged much of the state in November also spawned a spate of celebrity donations, with Linkin Park, the Eagles, and Gwen Stefani all making substantial contributions to both victims and firefighters.

American Idol gave back in April, with two shows that raised over $60 million to benefit organizations funding relief programs in America and Africa, featuring performances by Kelly Clarkson, Madonna, and others. Organized by Simon Cowell, American Idol Gives Back also led to a $100,000 donation by talk show host Ellen DeGeneres.

Another talk show host to shine this year was Oprah Winfrey, who opened a state-of-the-art school in South Africa for disadvantaged girls.

“I am creating everything in this school that I would have wanted for myself—so the girls will have the absolute best that my imagination can offer,” said the 53-year-old, who poured $40 million of her own money into the project.

Brad Pitt took on the mission of rebuilding New Orleans by donating $5 million towards new houses, and also set up the Make It Right Foundation to assist in his work. Meanwhile, his wife Angelina Jolie set out to do what her character Lara Croft does best – save the world. As well as donating $100,000 to build the Duk Lost Boys Medical Clinic in the Sudan in March, Jolie also traveled to Iraq and Syria to raise support for those displaced by war.

Although literally tonnes of articles were written about Jolie’s efforts during 2007, even more was reported on Don Cheadle's and George Clooney's work to publicize the humanitarian crisis in Darfur. The stars of Ocean’s Thirteen established a charity for the Sudanese region called Not On Our Watch, and personally raised over $9 million to help those affected by conflict in the region. The pair were awarded a special peace prize by Nobel laureates for their efforts.

And no round up of the year’s events can be complete without mention of Bono, who continued being Bono by doing what Bono does best – raising awareness for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the needy, and the disadvantaged.

We at Look To The Stars would like to wish all of our readers a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and we look forward to continuing to bring you celebrity charity news in 2008.

A Very Special Christmas

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:14:56 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Christmas may already be upon us, and Santa may at this very moment be squeezing his way down your chimney, but there is still time for one last fix of Christmas shopping.

Jon Bon Jovi, Sheryl Crow, U2, and Eric Clapton are just some of the stars to be featured on the first ever DVD collection from the “A Very Special Christmas” holiday music series to benefit the Special Olympics.

“A Very Special Christmas – 20th Anniversary Music Video Collection” is out now, and is the latest release in the series that has already raised more than $100 million for Special Olympics programs around the world.

“A Very Special Christmas is a fitting way to spread holiday cheer,” said Timothy Shriver, Special Olympics chairman. “But more importantly, this gift will help bring the joy of Special Olympics to many more children and adults with intellectual disabilities, providing them the chance of a new life – a life of participation, pride, friendship, and joy.”

The project was launched in 1987, when record producer Jimmy Iovine decided a Christmas album would be a suitable memorial to his father. His wife Vicki suggested that the album benefit the Special Olympics, which she was working for as a volunteer. Bobby Shriver, son of Special Olympics founder Eunice Shriver, signed on as producer, and A&M Records backed the project with an agreement to cover all costs.

Over the years, A Very Special Christmas has attracted a plethora of heavy-weight artists, and past releases have featured songs donated by Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, the Smashing Pumpkins, Stevie Nicks, Enrique Iglesias, Aretha Franklin, Tom Petty, and Reba McEntire.

“I am full of admiration for the many artists who have helped us,” said Eunice Shriver. “It’s a great tribute that these men and women say to themselves ’I’ll use my talent to help others’.”

The full list of songs on the 20th Anniversary Music Video Collection is:

Run DMC – Christmas In Hollis
U2 – Christmas (Baby Please Come Here)
No Doubt – Oi To The World
John Mellencamp – I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
Sting – Gabriel’s Message
Jon Bon Jovi – Please Come Home For Christmas
Vanessa Williams – What Child Is This?
Eric Clapton – Christmas Tears
Tracy Chapman – Oh Holy Night
Sheryl Crow – Run Rudolph Run
Wyclef Jean – Little Drummer Boy/Hot Hot Hot
Stevie Wonder – Merry Christmas Baby

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