Look To The Stars News: David Beckham

David Beckham Heads For The Army

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Legendary soccer icon David Beckham is headed to an American army base in Germany to visit the troops and raise morale.

Beckham and his Los Angeles Galaxy teammates will fly to into Kaiserslautern in southwest Germany on Monday November 23 to visit U.S. troops and their families. He’ll then travel to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre where he’ll meet wounded war veterans being treated for their injuries.

 And of course, Beckham and the boys will also take part in a friendly soccer game against local team Kaiserslautern FC on 26 November.

Cystic Fibrosis Sufferer Meets Football Heroes

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:30:00 -0000

A young cystic fibrosis sufferer from the UK named Becks had one wish – to meet the England football team. His dream recently came true at a England training session that was held at the Arsenal training ground – thanks to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

After watching the manager put the team through their paces, Becks had the chance to meet the players – all of whom signed his shirt – including footballing legends David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Jon Terry.

Becks suffers from cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that lines the lungs and digestive system with a sticky mucus. Becks has to undergo twice-daily physiotherapy and nebulisers as well as taking a cocktail of pills with each meal. He also has to put up with long stints in hospital. Becks never complains and dreams of one day being a famous footballer.

Beck’s Mum Bonnie said, “We would like to thank Starlight so much! I have never seen him so excited.”

Starlight and the FA joined together to grant his special wish.

Fans Remember Boyzone Star By Giving To Charity

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Fans of Boyzone singer Stephen Gately, who died last week, have donated over $15,000 to a British children’s charity in his memory.

 Gately was a Goodwill Ambassador for Caudwell Children, a charity that focuses on donations to special children for medical treatment, therapy, specialized equipment, and dying wish holidays. Gately’s husband Andrew Cowles had requested that in lieu of flowers, fans could donate to his favourite charity.  

“It’s an amazing gesture for the charity and it sums up Stephen – he always thought of others first,” said charity spokesperson Trudi Beswick. “We’re already up to an amazing amount and hopefully we can buy wheelchairs and equipment and therapy for kids. It’ll be a lovely memory for everybody to remember him by. He was a fantastic goodwill ambassador for us. We really want to give feedback to everyone – to everyone that’s supported us, to Andrew, the family and everyone in Boyzone and thank them by showing them the children we’ve helped in a couple of months time.”

Gately’s funeral was attended by bandmates Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch, as well as many others. Messages of support were read out from George Michael, David and Victoria Beckham, Take That, U2 and Colin Farrell.

Gately was also an ambassador for British charity Missing People.

Orlando Bloom Becomes UNICEF Ambassador

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Actor Orlando Bloom has been appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in recognition of his commitment to the rights of children around the world.

“Advocacy from UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors helps build momentum to improve the lives of children around the world,” said UNICEF Executive Director, Ann M. Veneman. “We are proud to have Orlando Bloom as one of the strong voices for vulnerable children.”

Bloom has already seen the work UNICEF is doing in Nepal, Russia, and Sarajevo. And he is committed to supporting UNICEF’s efforts: “I look forward to working with UNICEF as they continue to make the world a better place for children.”

Bloom said he wants to be an active Ambassador for the children’s organization. He will follow in the footsteps of such luminaries as Audrey Hepburn, Danny Kaye, Shakira, Sir Roger Moore, David Beckham, Jackie Chan, Mia Farrow, Vanessa Redgrave and many others. These ambassadors devote their time to raising awareness of UNICEF, and influencing global policy on behalf of children around the world.

Bloom has supported UNICEF’s work since 2007, when he first visited schools in the remote western districts of Kaski and Chitwan, two of the poorest areas of Nepal. He was able to see how UNICEF’s water and sanitation programmes benefit local families. In Nepal, Orlando spoke about the importance of education; and when asked by the children, he agreed to perform a small role in their local school radio production.

Bloom went to Nepal again in June 2008 to see how UNICEF and its partners are working to provide clean water for children and families. He has also visited the Krasnoselsky centre in Moscow, a shelter for children from economically vulnerable families.

“UNICEF doesn’t just deliver humanitarian aid, which is what they are known for all over the world,” he said. “They also educate and provide tools which help women and children face challenges specific to their own lives. I responded to how UNICEF works as much as I did to the work itself. I look forward to learning more and to supporting UNICEF any way I can.”

Victoria Beckham Wears Charity On Her Finger

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Victoria Beckham was spotted flying into London on Monday, wearing her support for charity on her finger.

The former Spice Girl and wife of David Beckham was sporting a £15,000 jewelled ring created by designer Stephen Webster. The ring will be auctioned to raise money for Malaria No More, a charity she and her husband work closely with.

“It’s a fabulous statement piece and I’ve loved wearing it, it’s inspiring to see designers like Stephen working the power of fashion to save lives,” she said. "Malaria is such an important issue, killing more children under five in Africa than any other single disease.

“I’m crossing my fingers this collaboration will generate loads of buzz and funds for new charity Malaria No More UK.”

The ring – and 360 replicas – will go on sale at online retailer ASOS.com.

“I designed the mosquito ring for an important cause but also to be chic and cool to wear. Seeing Victoria sporting it makes me hope it’s succeeded on both counts,” said designer Webster.

David Beckham Joins Shakira At Children's Hospital

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David Beckham, Shakira, Kellie Pickler and Ryan Seacrest were some of the stars who visited the Children’s Hospital of Orange County for Lollipop Live ’09 on Tuesday.

The celebrities signed autographs, posed for photos and handed out stuffed animals to the patients as part of the fundraiser sponsored by local radio station KIIS FM.

Seacrest broadcast live from CHOC and asked listeners to text in $5 donations in support of Radio Lollipop. Last year, the event raised about $30,000 for the program, which allows patients to go on air and request songs.

To see photos and video of the event, click here.

David Beckham To Dedicate Life To Family And Charity After Retirement

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David Beckham has revealed that he wants to dedicate his life to family and charity work when he retires.

The soccer star answered questions from readers of People.com, and revealed secrets about his life and family.

“I plan on spending time with the family and getting more involved in charity,” he replied after being asked his retirement plans. “Being ambassador for [”UNICEF":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/1-unicef] is something I’m very passionate [about]. I went to Sierra Leone last year, which was an amazing experience. We also have our own charity – the Victoria and David Beckham Charitable Trust – and I’ve got a soccer academy. I’ve got quite a few things to keep me busy."

The Victoria and David Beckham Charitable Trust supports initiatives for sick and disabled children. Past charities supported include UNICEF and organizations that help disabled children, such as those which provide wheelchairs to those in need.

David Beckham Joins Zidane For Charity Launch

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Ex-Real Madrid teammates David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane came together at a charity event during the weekend to launch a new campaign that aims to develop new soccer fields for urban communities in need across the USA.

Footprint Fields is a community outreach program supported by Adidas, MLS W.O.R.K.S., and Major League Soccer. This year, the program aims to build fields in communities in New York, Milwaukee, Seattle, California and Washington. The fields will all be state-of-the-art FieldTurf, a synthetic surface that is designed to replicate individual blades of natural grass.

“The ‘Footprint Fields’ program is designed to encourage soccer players of all levels and backgrounds to pick up a ball and join 10 friends on the field to play the beautiful game of soccer,” said Patrik Nilsson, Adidas America President. “From cleats and balls to uniforms and fields, providing the right equipment and infrastructure is an important way we can inspire and enable an American soccer nation.”

Beckham and Zidane celebrated the launch of the new program by making footprints in slabs of concrete, which will become part of the new fields. They also took time to meet young fans.

“I’m really excited to be back, and it’s a pleasure for [Zinedine and I] to be here” said Beckham. “Facilities like this give kids a chance to have a safe place to play and will help to grow the game in this country.”

“It’s nice to see the U.S. taking a bigger role in soccer,” added Zidane. “It was good to see the national team do so well in the FIFA Confederations Cup and to beat the Spanish. It proves that soccer in the U.S. is rising to another level. It’s also great to see Adidas take such a large role in helping to grow the sport of soccer in the United States.”

“Footprint Field” grant applications for 2010 will be made available on October 1, 2009 and managed by the U.S. Soccer Foundation. Click here for more information.

“It’s all about growing the game in this country,” said Beckham. “Kids can come down to these facilities and enjoy themselves, and that sends American soccer in the right direction.”

Stars Sign Mini For British Forces Morale

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A car signed by some of Britain’s favorite stars will go up for auction at Bonhams Auction House tonight, July 3, to raise money for the British Forces Foundation’s Lap of Honour charity, which aims to boost morale in Britiain’s Armed Forces.

For the last year, the Mini cooper – adorned with a Union Jack on the roof – has been traveling around Britain, gathering autographs from well-known faces such as Michael Caine, Richard Branson, Sienna Miller, Simon Cowell, Terry Wogan, Joan Collins, Roger Moore, Michael Parkinson, Cliff Richard, Ranulph Fiennes, Tom Jones, Hugh Grant, Judi Dench, James Blunt, Katherine Jenkins, Jackie Stewart, Rod Stewart, Lewis Hamilton, Kate Moss, Joe Calzaghe, Elton John, David Beckham, Magaret Thatcher, Eric Clapton, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, Joanna Lumley, Helen Mirren, Gordon Brown, Paul McCartney and many more.

“This fantastic car has been on an amazing journey during our tenth anniversary year,” said Mark Cann, director of the BFF. “It will be a unique addition to any car collection and we’re delighted that Bonhams offered so generously to help us achieve the best bid and raise as much money as we can. The very act of demonstrating support will send a clear message of solidarity to those on the frontline, which will in itself be a significant boost to their morale.”

Proceeds will go to the well-being and esprit de corps of all serving personnel.

To find out more, click here.

David Beckham Stars In New Malaria Commercial

Tue, 26 May 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David Beckham is to front a new advert to highlight the urgent need for mosquito nets to help prevent the spread of malaria during the lead-up to this year’s Champions League final.

“It’s truly incredible to think we can stop this killer disease forever and it’s such a simple ask, for less than the cost of a football you can protect a family from dying,” said Beckham. “I urge the UK public to get behind the [”Malaria No More":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/516-malaria-no-more] UK campaign to buy a net, save a life and make malaria no more."

The ad – which shows the football legend kicking a penalty into a goal with no net – aims to raise awareness of the disease and encourage people to donate to the charity. Viewers of the final – to be held between Barcelona and Manchester United on May 27 – in the UK can push the red button on their Sky remote to learn more about the organization and donate to the cause.

David Beckham Kicks Malaria Out

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Malaria No More UK, the British extension of a US charity that aims to prevent millions of deaths worldwide, has attracted the support of David Beckham, Andy Murray and Denise Lewis, who have been named as members of the leadership council of the new campaign.

The trio met with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown this week to ensure the Government makes good on their promise to deliver 20 million life-saving malaria nets to Africa by next year. Since Brown’s pledge a year ago, the UK has delivered about 9.7 million nets to Africa, and a further 1.9 million are on order.

“It’s truly incredible to think we can stop this killer disease forever and it’s such a simple thing to do. For less than the cost of a football you can protect a family from dying,” said Beckham, “I urge the UK public to get behind the Malaria No More UK campaign to save a life and make malaria no more.”

According to the charity, despite the fact that malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, it threatens half the world’s population – killing one child every 30 seconds in Africa.

“When you think that malaria kills one child every 30 seconds and three times as many under-5s as HIV/Aids, there is a desperate need in increase our understanding and awareness of this disease,” said Sarah Kline, the charity’s executive director.

Britain’s No 1 tennis player, Andy Murray didn’t hesitate when asked to support Malaria No More UK: “This is the first global charity I’ve been involved with in this capacity and it was an easy decision. Malaria is completely preventable and stoppable but yet it still kills more children in Africa than any other single disease. We can radically change this, it is a huge opportunity and I’m urging the UK public to help save a life and get behind Malaria No More UK, a truly world-changing and life-saving initiative.”

Denise Lewis, who won an Olympic gold medal in 2000, added: “As a mother of three, finding out that pregnant women are four times more likely to contract malaria than other adults, well that really hits home. Here in the UK, malaria is not something an expecting mother needs to worry about. It shouldn’t be in Africa either, especially since malaria is a preventable disease. It’s so easy for us to make a massive difference. Buying a £5 bed net will protect a mother and her child for up to five years. The time has come for us to work together to make malaria no more.”

Red Nose Day TV Special Breaks Records

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

BBC’s Red Nose Day television extravaganza, Funny For Money, raised over £57 million (US$80 million) on Friday night, breaking the previous record of £40 million set in 2007.

Presented by David Tennant, Davina McCall, Alan Carr, Jonathan Ross and others, Funny For Money aired on March 13 on BBC One and Two and featured comedy items performed by Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley, Robbie Williams, David Walliams, Matt Lucas, Ricky Gervais, Harry Enfield, Peter Crouch, David Beckham, Ronnie Corbett, Sadie Frost, and Kate Moss.

A special version of Top Of The Pops featuring performances by U2, James Morrison and Oasis – as well as Tom Jones and Rob Brydon singing the official Comic Relief single, Islands In The Stream – also aired as part of the extravaganza. The Islands In The Stream single has just topped the UK charts, which will bring in more cash for the cause.

Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s – which sold the official Comic Relief merchandise – handed over a cheque for over £9 million to the show’s presenters during the evening, the single largest donation ever made in the event’s 11 year history. Another £20 million as donations keep coming in.

Celebrity Kilimanjaro climbers Alesha Dixon, Ben Shephard, Cheryl Cole, Chris Moyles, Denise Van Outen, Fearne Cotton, Gary Barlow, Kimberley Walsh and Ronan Keating also made an appearance, and it was revealed that their efforts had raised £3,326,142 for Comic Relief.

‘It is just incredible to see such a huge amount of money given by the public again on Red Nose Day," said Comic Relief co-founder Richard Curtis. "Red Nose Day is 21 years old this year and its success is down to the unrelenting support and ingenuity of our supporters – it belongs not to the comedians, but to the people who give. It’s wonderful that, in more difficult times, people seem to understand that the need increases for people whose lives were impossibly tough in the first place. The work this money funds helps change and save lives all over Africa and the United Kingdom. A huge heartfelt thank you to everyone who has helped to make this year’s Red Nose Day such a memorable and brilliant campaign."

The evening also featured appearances from Annie Lennox and Take That.

Red Nose Day TV Special To Tickle BBC Funny Bones

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Today, March 13, is Red Nose Day in Britain – the major fundraising event of the year for Comic Relief. And to celebrate, celebrities young and old will appear in a TV extravaganza being screened tonight on BBC One and Two.

Presented by David Tennant, Davina McCall, Alan Carr, Jonathan Ross and others, Funny For Money will feature the last ever French & Saunders film parody – a version of Mamma Mia! performed by Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders – plus comedy items performed by Robbie Williams, David Walliams, Matt Lucas, Ricky Gervais, Harry Enfield, Peter Crouch, David Beckham, Sadie Frost, and Kate Moss. There will also be an appearance from Annie Lennox.

As part of the show, Comic Relief will also present a special version of Top Of The Pops that will feature performances by U2, James Morrison and Oasis, as well as Tom Jones and Rob Brydon singing the official Comic Relief single, (Barry) Islands In The Stream.

The show will also a special appearance by the celebrity climbers who scaled Mount Kilimanjaro last week. The group – including Take That’s Gary Barlow, Ronan Keating, Girls Aloud’s Kimberley Walsh, Cheryl Cole, singer Alesha Dixon, television presenters Fearne Cotton and Ben Shephard, West-End star Denise Van Outen and radio DJ Chris Moyles – reached the summit of the 19,300ft (5,900m) peak as dawn broke on Saturday, March 7. They featured in their own BBC One documentary last night, and also met with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who has pledged £2 million to the charity.

“It has been a privilege for the whole team to meet the Prime Minister … and under such special circumstances,” said Barlow. “To think that our efforts on the mountain and the incredible generosity of the public have inspired school children and have now been supported by the Government is unbelievable. If the money raised can help control malaria and also help poor and vulnerable people in the UK, it will all have been worthwhile. What an unforgettable day.”

The Funny For Money TV special runs from 7pm to 1:30am. Viewers will have the chance to pledge money to go towards helping people in the UK overcome poverty, mental health issues, domestic violence and other issues, and people in Africa affected by AIDS, malaria, conflict and more.

David Beckham Gives The Shirt Off His Back To Cancer Charity

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

Written by Tim Saunders

Football superstar David Beckham has donated the shirt in which he made his record-equaling 108th England cap to charity.

The number 17 shirt will be auctioned on behalf of The Bobby Moore Fund, a fund set up in association with Cancer Research UK to raise money for research into bowel cancer in memory of footballer Bobby Moore, who lost his battle to the disease in 1993.

“It was a very, very generous gesture,” Stephanie Moore – Bobby’s widow – told BBC Radio 5 in the UK. “That shirt is of great emotional value to David. It was very kind and generous of him to donate it to the charity so we can auction it to raise funds for dedicated bowel cancer research – the disease that killed Bobby so young.”

Beckham played 45 minutes in a match between England and Spain last week, equaling Moore’s record number of games. He has the chance to become the most capped player for England in a game against Slovakia next month.

Information on how to bid for the shirt will be released on the Bobby Moore Fund website.

David Beckham Accepts Donation For UNICEF

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

David Beckham’s career as a soccer star may be fluctuating between AC Milan and the LA Galaxy, but his role as a Goodwill Ambassador for the children’s charity UNICEF is rock solid. Last week, Beckham was thrilled to accept a £100,000 check on behalf of UNICEF from the Rangers Charity Foundation.

The former England captain – who has visited Thailand and Sierra Leone to see first-hand the work UNICEF are undertaking – said “It’s great to be able to accept this check from the Rangers Charity Foundation on behalf of UNICEF. As an Ambassador I’ve seen the impact of UNICEF’s work with children worldwide.”

Last October, the Rangers Charity Foundation announced their groundbreaking collaboration with UNICEF, which named the Rangers as UNICEF’S only Scottish football partner. The Rangers joined other partner clubs such as Barcelona, Manchester United and AC Milan.

Beckham was also excited to learn Rangers have pledged to raise £300,000 for UNICEF in the next three years to help fund an education project in India, reaching over 45,000 children in over 200 schools.

“The £300,000 pledged by the Rangers Charity Foundation will make a real difference to the lives of thousands of children across India, giving many the chance to go to school for the first time. This money will help to transform children’s lives.” Beckham said.

Rangers Chief Executive Martin Bain, a Trustee of the Charity Foundation, commented: “The Club is delighted that UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham is backing our efforts to make a difference and recognizes the fantastic work of the Rangers Charity Foundation through this partnership with UNICEF. Today’s £100,000 check represents funding for the first phase of the Indian education project and will undoubtedly make a positive difference to the lives of thousands of children. Both UNICEF UK and Rangers Football Club have strong ambitions for this partnership and will be working closely together during the years ahead to ensure the project’s success whilst at the same time promoting our shared humanitarian values.”

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.

David Beckham Hits New Zealand For Kids And Animals

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David Beckham was in Auckland, New Zealand, last week for several charity events.

First up was a benefit gala for KidsCan, a charity dedicated to meeting the basic physical needs of financially disadvantaged children, leveling the playing field for them so they have the chance to reach their full potential.

Beckham was joined at the gala – held last Thursday, December 4 – by members of New Zealand’s All Blacks, the national rugby team and patrons of the charity, as well as Hollywood star Martin Henderson, who was born in New Zealand.

The evening featured an auction in which Beckham paid $9,000 for a print of Barack Obama, only to donate back to the auction to raise even more cash.

Next on the agenda was a soccer match between his team, LA Galaxy, and the Oceania All Stars to benefit the New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Saturday, December 6.

The game – won by the LA Galaxy – was preceeded by an exhibition match between New Zealand celebrities, such as Dai Henwood, Jason Gunn, and Monty Betham. The warm-up match benefited New Zealand-based charities such as KidsCan and Find Your Field of Dreams, a new charity set up by athlete John Walker to make a positive impact the lives of young people in South Auckland by providing them with opportunities to live healthy, active lifestyles and pursue a positive pathway through sport and recreation.

“Our passion is to produce fit, healthy and active young people who make positive choices and dare to pursue their dreams,” said Walker, the first person to run a mile in under 3 minutes 50 seconds. “We want to do all we can to get our kids active and involved in sports rather than following temptations to illegal, time-wasting or unhealthy activities. To achieve that, we need the support of all sectors of the community; clubs, teams, volunteers, individuals, schools and sporting and recreation organizations.”

Beckham is also well known for his support of UNICEF.

Join Bart Simpson And Friends For Children's Day

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:30:00 -0000

The voice of Bart Simpson, Nancy Cartwright, will be one of the attendees of the first annual San Fernando Valley Children’s Day event this Saturday, November 22.

Hosted by NBC’s Fritz Coleman, the day will feature a whole heap of fun and games like face painting, a space museum, a petting zoo, rock climbing, a pro skateboarding demonstration, and members of the LA Galaxy soccer team will be on hand for a special David Beckham Soccer Academy. There will also be live entertainment from Aaron Carter, and an appearance by Laker great AC Green.

Children’s Day is celebrated in many countries, but the biggest and grandest celebration is in Turkey, where an International Children’s Day was established in 1935, and now every April sees children from all over the world come to Turkey for a week of celebrations and festivities. Many of the events are broadcast on Turkish TV, showing the children in their traditional national clothing as they sing and dance. Then, to cap it off, on April 23rd the seats of Parliament are held by children, and a child even becomes President for the day, delivering a speech on national TV!

In the United States the first proclaimed Children’s Day occurred in 1856 when a Christian pastor in Massachusetts dedicated one Sunday every year to Children. Since then many other denominations have set aside one day every year to honor our children, and in 2000 our federal government recognized the importance of celebrating our children by proclaiming November 16th as Children’s Day.

The San Fernando Children’s Day celebration will run from 9am to 4pm at Woodley Park, Van Nuys, California.

American Idol Gives Back $67 Million

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

David Beckham, Bono, Annie Lennox and Carrie Underwood have all accepted cheques from April’s Idol Gives Back event on behalf of the charities they support.

The show raised over US$67 million for charities such as the Global Fund, Malaria No More, the Children’s Health Fund, Save the Children, and the Children’s Defense Fund.

“I saw first hand with my visit to Sierra Leone with [”UNICEF":http://www.looktothestars.org/charity/1-unicef] last year how devastating malaria can be to a country," said Beckham, who was presented with US$12 million by Idol winner David Cook on behalf of Malaria No More. “This money will help buy millions of bed nets and also protect many people, particularly the young children who are most vulnerable.”

Annie Lennox was also delighted to receive $500,000 for the Treatment Action Campaign.

“This is just to express my gratitude to everyone on Idol Gives Back, for putting together a show with a difference, and for inviting me to be part of it,” she said in a statement. “Because of this event, and the generosity of the viewers, who donated so kindly, I have been able to hand over a cheque for the amazing sum of $500,000 to Treatment Action Campaign, in South Africa. I can assure everyone that every single dollar contributed will go to excellent use, in the work to educate, assist and support people living on the frontline of the HIV/Aids pandemic, many of whom are women and children. Thank you so much.”

Bono received US$10 million on behalf of the Global Fund For AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

“The Global Fund will keep thousands of people safe from HIV/AIDS because American Idol has donated $10 million,” said the U2 frontman. “That’s YOU people, who sent in your hard earned cash.”

The Idol Gives Back show featured appearances and performances by Snoop Dogg, John Legend, Miley Ray Cyrus, Annie Lennox, Mariah Carey, Gloria Estefan, Sheila E., Fergie, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Peyton and Eli Manning, and Reese Witherspoon, and pre-taped messages from David and Victoria Beckham, Kiefer Sutherland, Ellen DeGeneres, Jim Carrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama. Britney Spears, who couldn’t be at the event, donate $25,000 to the cause.

Family Fun Days For Everyone This Weekend

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Two charity events are taking place on opposite sides of the Atlantic this weekend.

New Yorkers who want to get on their bikes can join Full Metal Jacket star Matthew Modine on his Bicycle For A Day campaign. The 49-year-old will be among cyclists pedaling off from lower Manhattan’s South Street Seaport on Saturday, September 20, to raise awareness of the need to reduce carbon emissions and to demonstrate the many simple things that each of us can do everyday to accomplish a cleaner world.

“The idea behind my project Bicycle for a Day is to help people understand that there is something they can do,” he said. “In fact, just one simple thing they can do every day to become part of the solution. If everybody does this one thing, the cumulative effect could be tremendous. The environmental situation is a great opportunity for us all to work together to find solutions. Bicycle for a Day is just that – citizens of the world joining together globally and acting locally.”

Celebrity supporters of the campaign include Heather Graham, John McEnroe, Lara Flynn Boyle, Liev Schreiber and Liam Neeson, and anybody interested in joining the fun can visit www.bicycleforaday.org for more information.

A day of fun of a different kind is set to take place in the UK on September 21. The Day for Heroes Family Fun Day will go off with a bang in the Detling Show Ground near Maidstone on Sunday, and will feature British boyband McFly.

Celebrities, artists and the military are joining forces to give families a day out to remember, whilst raising essential funds for Help for Heroes. Compered by Cheryl Baker and Shaun Williamson, the day will be packed with entertainment and thrills. A parachute display team of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment will open the show with a spectacular entrance. There will also be 20 free funfair rides – including the ultimate experience reverse bungee power shot – and entertainment including military-based attractions such as aircraft simulators, parachute display teams and a challenging inflatable army assault course.

Help for Heroes was launched in October 2007 in response to the desire of ordinary people to do something practical to help our wounded servicemen and women. Celebrity supporters of the charity include TV show hosts Jeremy Clarkson and James May (Top Gear), Prince Harry and Prince William, Simon Cowell, and Sharon Osbourne. David Beckham is also a supporter, saying: “I am incredibly proud and grateful for the commitment and work that our armed forces do for our country. I support the campaign fully.”

For ticket information and more information, visit www.dayforheroes.com.

Peace Day Concert 2008 To Rock London

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

After last year’s sell out show, the annual Peace One Day concert is set to rock the Royal Albert Hall in London.

World Peace Day has been held on September 21 annually since 2001, when the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted September 21 as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. The initiative came from an idea by Jeremy Gilley, who founded his non-profit organization – Peace One Day – in 1999. Since then he has amassed an impressive list of supporters, including Chris Martin, Sir Richard Branson, Angelina Jolie, Alan Rickman, and Michael Douglas.

This year’s concert will see performances from Annie Lennox, Bryan Adams, and a guest appearance from Jude Law. There will also be a gala screening of The Day After Peace, the acclaimed new documentary film made by Jeremy Gilley. The film, which received a great reception at its premiere during the 61st Cannes Film Festival, features Kofi Annan, The Dalai Lama, Angelina Jolie, Jude Law, Annie Lennox and Jonny Lee Miller.

The 2007 concert featured acts such as Corinne Bailey Rae, Kate Nash, James Morrison, and Yusuf, with video segments from David Beckham and the Dalai Lama.

Tickets to the 2008 Peace Day Concert can be bought from Ticketmaster, and cost between £35 and £55.

Nelson Mandela's 90th Birthday Party Rocks London

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

Written by Jennifer Beckmann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Look To The Stars With Celebrity Society Magazine

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:30:00 -0000

The Look to the Stars team prides itself on reporting inspirational celebrity news that other sources miss, and on its close partnerships with charities and celebrities. We were therefore delighted to act as guest editors for Celebrity Society Magazine, highlighting the philanthropic work of a number of top celebrities.

Celebrity Society is a quality publication that celebrates the philanthropic spirit of celebrities and dedicates its pages to the promotion and encouragement of good works in the community and beyond.

For its latest issue, the magazine turned to Look to the Stars – the leading online source of celebrity charity news – to provide an in-depth look at some celebrities who have applied their energies in highly personal and direct ways to support the causes close to their hearts. The individuals featured include George Clooney, David Beckham, and Salma Hayek.

Started over three decades ago, Celebrity Society has become a leading authority on the extraordinary people whose contributions make up the life source and voices of non-profit organizations and foundations, and gives readers insight into their philanthropic passions. Available throughout California, Aspen and New York, Celebrity Society Magazine is a quarterly subscription magazine that includes celebrity profiles and exclusive interviews with the “movers and shakers” of the philanthropic community.

To learn more about Celebrity Society Magazine and read some of Look to the Stars’s editorial and features, visit the magazine’s web site at www.celebritysociety.com.

Jude Law Champions Annual Day Of Peace

Mon, 26 May 2008 10:58:54 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

Jude Law has just presented the new film he is featured in along with David Beckham – The Day After Peace – at the Cannes film festival.

The brainchild of Jeremy Gilley – who believes that media has a responsibility in the messages and images it distributes to the world – The Day After Peace is a film documenting his past 10 years of campaigning the world over for support of an official annual day of peace – September 21.

One of Gilley’s successes, a UN resolution to support the day, came in 2001. However, on September 11, the scheduled day of the announcement, the 9/11 tragedy unfolded in New York postponing Gilley’s victory.

Another of his achievements was the halting of warring factions in Afghanistan during 2007’s Day of Peace so that over one million children could be vaccinated against polio.

His past decade of persuasion has not been limited to politicians and non-profits, though. He has also gone after big business for support of a day of non-violence, as well as to people on the ground.

Law joined Gilley on a trip to Afghanistan last year to find out what was really going on. “Feeling first-hand the presence of the frontline, being able to feel the hope of the people,” Law told the BBC. “There’s a very cynical, violent image of Afghanistan. My overall impression of this country is one of great hope.”

Peace Day seems to be catching on. Last year almost 30 million people participated in Peace events across the globe. Annie Lennox – who performed in the Peace One Day concert in London – said, “Something that’s of common interest to every man, woman and child on the planet must surely be the notion of peace.”

Both Gilley and Law couldn’t agree more. They want to get a simple message out there: that anyone can make a difference. Gilley says, “You can be an ordinary person with no qualifications and you can have an idea that could save people’s lives.”

David Beckham to Climb Kilimanjaro

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

Written by Delinda Lombardo

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

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

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

John Cusack's $3 Trillion Dollar Shopping Spree

Tue, 13 May 2008 10:03:37 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Actor, director, activist and humanitarian, John Cusack, asks ‘What would you do with $3 Trillion dollars?’ Would you feed a war torn country? Would you spend it on a night with David Beckham? Use it to build a school in Tibet? Or would you spend it to wage war?

Prompted by his role in the soon to be released film War Inc., Cusack bashes the high cost of war and begs us all to take a closer look at where our priorities lie.

“Honestly, it would have been a whole lot easier just to follow the President’s example and blow it all on one illegal occupation of Iraq. $3 trillion is the projected cost of the Iraq War according to Nobel Prize-winning economists,” writes Cusack on his blog, “That’s a whole lot of zeroes, but what does it really amount to? How many homes would it buy for Americans who’ve fallen victim to the subprime meltdown? How many debts would it pay off for developing nations?”

To find out exactly what you could buy on a $3 Trillion Dollar spending spree, visit http://3trillion.org/. You can restore the Everglades for $20M, end poverty for $200M, eliminate third world debt for $422M and still have plenty left over to buy yourself a private island or two. The site thankfully illustrates that most of us would spread the love if given the reins, and to date over 800,000 people have logged on and ‘virtually’ improved the world.

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