Look To The Stars News: Jessica Simpson

Taylor Swift Signs Elephant For Family Health International

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:29:00 -0000

As reported earlier by Look To The Stars, Family Health International is one of many charities to benefit from the current auction of celebrity-signed toy elephants organized by PROJECT ZAMBI.

Among those who have signed the elephants specifically for FHI are Taylor Swift (pictured below), the Jonas Brothers, Hugh Jackman, Heidi Klum and Ellen DeGeneres & Portia de Rossi.

“Family Health International is deeply grateful to these celebrities for lending their names to help address one of the world’s most serious problems. Their support raises awareness of the crisis and brings real help to children orphaned by AIDS in Africa—not just help to survive but to thrive,” said Al Siemens, CEO of Family Health International.

A number of other celebrities have also chosen charities to support through the auction, including George Clooney (Global Action for Children), Alicia Keys and Brooke Shields (Keep A Child Alive), Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake (African Children’s Choir), Jessica Simpson (Operation Smile), Scarlett Johansson (The Global Fund), Leonardo DiCaprio (SOS Children’s Villages), Naomi Watts (CIDRZ Foundation), James Taylor (Hole in the Wall Gang), Susan Sarandon (UNAID), Danny DeVito, Joely Fisher and Brad Garrett (Save the Children), Jennie Garth, Peter Facinelli and Glenn Close (Children of Uganda), and Barbara Walters and Denzel Washington (Save Africa’s Children).

To take part in the auction – which runs until October 15 – click here.

Jessica Simpson Honored At Operation Smile Gala

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Jessica Simpson was honored at Operation Smile’s 8th Annual Smile Gala at the Beverly Hills Hilton Hotel on Friday, October 2.

Simpson is the International Youth Ambassador for Operation Smile, an organization that provides free reconstructive surgery to tens of thousands of children and young adults in 25 developing countries and the United States and brings them new hope and new lives.

Hosted by Access Hollywood presenter Billy Bush, the Smile Gala honored Jessica’s entire family for the work they do with the charity, as well as Stephen Berman of JAKKS Pacific, the Honorable Richard J. Riordan, Roselyn Sanchez and Eric Winter. Jessica, Ashlee, Tina and Joe Simpson have proven themselves beyond exemplary in their dedication to improving the lives of children throughout the world suffering from facial deformities. Jessica began her relationship with Operation Smile as a Smile Ambassador and attended an Operation Smile medical mission to Kenya with her father Joe in October, 2005. Jessica has also traveled to Washington, D.C. with Operation Smile founder Dr. William Magee and spoke to members of Congress on Operation Smile’s behalf.

The Universal Smile Award was presented to Roselyn Sanchez and Eric Winter. Roselyn and Eric are both Smile Ambassadors and attended a medical mission to Managua, Nicaragua, in 2008. Award-winning actress Roselyn Sanchez is currently starring on the CBS series Without a Trace and has appeared in Rush Hour 2, Chasing Papi, Basic, The Game Plan, The Perfect Sleep and Venus & Vegas. Eric Winter will star in the new ABC series Single with Parents and has had recurring roles on hit television shows Brothers & Sisters, Viva Laughlin and the cult vampire drama Moonlight. His other credits include CSI, Charmed, Pepper Dennis, Wildfire and Love Inc. He also co-starred in the films The Ugly Truth and Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.

To read more about Jessica Simpson’s work with Operation Smile, including how she came to be part of the organization, see our special profile here.

Celebrities Provide Happy Memories for Sick Children and Their Families

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

What do President Barack Obama, Jessica Alba and Martina McBride all have in common? They have all helped kids’ dreams come true through the Kids Wish Network.

The Kids Wish Network is a national charitable organization which works to bring joy to children who are facing difficult or tragic circumstances.

The charity has many programs, from Hero of the Month which recognizes young people facing tough situations, to Holiday of Hope Gift Bank which helps to bring comfort to children feeling alone in hospitals, to Wish Granting which arranges for children’s dreams to come true.

President Obama became one of the charity’s Guardian Angels when he met with Ta’Kiyah, a 12-year-old girl who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2007. He gave her a hug and spent time looking through the scrapbook she brought with her.

“I was very impressed. He really took his time and looked at every picture and asked her what each picture represented,” said Cherie, Ta’Kiyah’s aunt. “Thumbs up to everybody who made this possible for Ta’Kiyah.”

Jessica Alba took 9-year-old heart disease patient Adina on a 1 1/2 hour shopping trip in LA. Martina McBride spent time at one of her concerts with Ashley, a girl who was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy, and dedicated her song “Butterfly” to the girl on that evening.

Many other celebrities have brightened the lives of sick children through the organization, including Gene Simmons, Demi Lovato, Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Jessica Simpson and Dale Earnhardt, Jr..

Earnhardt met 4-year-old Mikey, who was born with a serious medical condition called VATERL Syndrome. Mikey was thrilled to meet his hero, and, after overcoming his shyness, dashed over to grab Earnhardt’s leg, stating, “I love you, Junior!”

Earnhardt reached down to pat the boy on the back, and with a warm smile replied, “I love you too, buddy.”

Kids Wish Network is a nationally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to infusing hope, creating happy memories, and improving the quality of life for children. Aside from granting wishes, Kids Wish Network also has several other programs which benefit children’s care facilities. If you know a child between the ages of 3 and 18 who may be in need of its wish granting services, please call 727-937-3600 or toll free 888-918-9004. For more information on Kids Wish Network, visit KidsWishNetwork.org

Kellie Pickler Launches Charity Shoe Initiative

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Kellie Pickler’s affinity for shoes is well documented. Her 2006 debut single kicked a no-account-ex-boyfriend to the curb in “Red High Heels,” and her current, self titled album closes with “Going Out In Style,” which expresses her desire for her final resting place…having her ashes spread in shoe department of Saks Fifth Avenue. But Pickler, whose modest upbringing allowed for little more than the basics, understands the realities of living without.

With that, Kellie continues her support of Soles4Souls and will team with Ladies’ Home Journal the “Look Good. Do Good. Feel Great” magazine, to collect new and gently worn shoes on Thursday, August 27 before her show at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. The drop point for the shoes will be located at entrance to the Garden and will be open from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm.

On Soles4Souls Pickler said, “I love shoes but they are more than just a fashion statement, they are a necessity and not everyone has access to them because of financial reasons or natural disaster. Whatever the situation, Soles4Souls is there to help and I’m glad to lend my support. Thanks to the wonderful people from Ladies’ Home Journal who are volunteering their time to come out and collect the shoes that people are giving.”

Pickler joins her friend Taylor Swift on the Fearless Tour 2009 for the sold out show at New York’s Madison Square Garden on August 27. Pickler and Swift wrote Pickler’s last single, “Best Days Of Your Life,” which has sold more than 700,000 digital downloads and peaked inside the Top 10.

Nashville-based Soles4Souls collects and distributes free footwear (both new and ‘gently worn’) to people in need around the world. Since its inception, Soles4Souls has distributed more than 5 million pairs — currently one pair every 13 seconds — to people in 125 countries, including Honduras, Romania, Thailand, The Sudan and the United States.

In addition to donations from the footwear industry, Soles4Souls has received shoes and support from Scarlett Johansson, Zach Braff, Billy Joel, Jessica Simpson, Donald Faison, Stevie Nicks and many other celebrities, professional athletes and musicians.

Will Ferrell And Jordin Sparks Join Up For Charity Tennis

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:00:00 -0000

The United States Tennis Association has announced that Will Ferrell and multi-award winner and platinum-selling artist Jordin Sparks will team with former US Open champion Andy Roddick and additional superstar players for the 14th annual Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day.

The popular full-day tennis and music festival for children and families – including interactive games, musical entertainment and tennis clinics – will be hosted by television personalities Susie Castillo and Quddus. The festivities are set for Saturday, August 29 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, N.Y., from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. The tennis and music festival kicks off the 2009 US Open, which runs from August 31 – September 13.

From 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. kids and families can experience an exciting schedule of interactive tennis games, music and attractions taking place throughout the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Returning to Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day this year is SmashZone, a fan fest located in the National Tennis Center’s new indoor facility, which will run from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Then from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., a live tennis and music stadium show will feature fun exhibition matches and skills competitions with Roddick, Ferrell and other top players and celebrities with musical performances by Sparks, Honor Society and Justin Bieber.

For the stadium show, tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster (1-866-OPEN-TIX), usopen.org and at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center box office. General admission promenade tickets cost $10 and loge tickets are $20. Kids 12-and-under with stadium show tickets will receive a free Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day hat from the USTA and Hess on a first-come, first-served basis. In the event of inclement weather, ticket holders can log on to usopen.org for the most up to date information.

“Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day presented by Hess is a terrific way to kick off the US Open each year,” said Pierce O’Neil, Chief Business Officer, USTA. “This year’s Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day will again bring together some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment for a fun filled day for all ages. Additionally, this year’s event will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the National Junior Tennis and Learning network, a program that Arthur Ashe co-founded in an effort to bring the sport of tennis to economically diverse audiences throughout the country.”

Over the years, Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day has featured many of music’s biggest acts including the Jonas Brothers, Rihanna, Demi Lovato, Jessica Simpson, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Ne-Yo, Cheyenne, The Cheetah Girls, Mario, Sean Kingston, Jesse McCartney, Bow Wow and Kat DeLuna.

Jessica Simpson Performs For Cancer Survivors

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

Jessica Simpson performed to over 2000 pediatric cancer survivors at the 18th annual Celebrate Life With Hope event at Paramount Studios on Sunday, June 7.

The event benefited the HOPE program at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and is the largest annual event of its type in US. It presented the opportunity for survivors and their families to get together with hospital staff and trainees, representatives of community and national support agencies, and major donors of the HOPE Program at the CHLA. In addition to fun and food, the event emphasized health promotion and wellness through attention to nutrition, self-care, and mind-body fitness.

The HOPE Program in the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles has evolved over the last 30 years and continues to create new and innovative approaches to psychosocial care. Today, the Center is an international leader in the comprehensive care of children and teens with cancer, together with their families. It provides state-of-the art medical treatment combined with compassionate psychosocial care and support, as well as making scientific discoveries in all facets of the disease and treatment focused on reducing suffering and improving quality of life.

More info about the program can be found here.

Scarlett Johansson Goes Barefoot For Charity

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:00:00 -0000

This week is the Second Annual Barefoot Week, organized by Soles4Souls, and a host of celebrities are stepping forward to support it.

Soles4Souls is an international shoe charity dedicated to providing a free pair of shoes to people in need. This week, the non-profit organization will be distributing thousands of pairs of new shoes in the United States while it also collects “gently worn” shoes from the general public during thousands of concurrent shoe drives at schools, churches and community centers.

The campaign is being spearheaded by Scarlett Johansson, who previously donated 2000 pairs of new shoes from her own line of Reebok footwear, and is lending her name to help raise publicity about Barefoot Week. Antawn Jamison, Jessica Simpson, Brittany Snow, Kellie Pickler, Luke Perry, Riddick Bowe, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Chris Hope, Jeff Fisher and Tim Dunn have also voiced their support for the weeklong series of events.

“If you can’t dig deep in your pockets, than dig in your closet!” said Johansson. “Americans can make a huge difference with Soles4Souls by donating shoes. Souls4Soles gives away a pair of shoes every 13 seconds in over 125 countries, with over 55 percent donated to fellow Americans.”

The full event schedule is:

Monday, June 1st: In Indianapolis, Soles4Souls will be working with Wheeler Mission Ministries to hand out 4,000 pairs of new shoes and 6,000 pairs of flip-flops to people served by the downtown mission. Visit www.wheelermission.org for more information.

Tuesday, June 2nd: In Atlanta, Soles4Souls will be working with City of Refuge, a non-profit organization that offers both life saving resources and life building tools to individuals and families in Atlanta who are living on the margin. They will be handing out 4,000 pairs of new shoes and 6,000 pairs of flip-flops. Visit www.cityofrefugeinc.com for more information on the Soles4Souls partner in Atlanta.

Wednesday, June 3rd: Soles4Souls will be working side-by-side with The Foundry, a Birmingham-area charity focused on rebuilding lives and restoring hope of recovering addicts, ex-inmates and the homeless. They will be handing out 4,000 pairs of new shoes and 6,000 pairs of flip-flops. Learn more at www.thefoundryonline.org.

Thursday, June 4th: Soles4Souls will be at the Midnight Mission in Los Angeles, working with thousands of homeless on Skid Row. The Mission provides a myriad of services to people in need, such as education and job opportunities, drug and alcohol treatment, and medical and legal services. They will be handing out 4,000 pairs of new shoes and 6,000 pairs of flip-flops. Visit www.midnightmission.org for more information.

Friday, June 5th: Soles4Souls will be working with local retailer Shoe Mill (www.shoemill.com), as well as adidas (also headquartered in Portland) to provide 5,000 pairs of new shoes and 3,000 pairs of new socks to the large homeless youth population and families living on the streets. The event will be held in the North Park Blocks (NW 8th and NW Everett Streets). Delivered Dish (www.d-dish.com), a local restaurant delivery service, is catering the event. Janus Youth Programs (www.janusyouth.org), Outside In (www.outsidein.org), Bridgetown Ministries (www.bridgetownministries.com) and other homeless programs for at-risk youth are jointly sponsoring the event.

On Saturday, June 6th, Soles4Souls will return to Los Angeles and appear at the Los Angeles Mission (www.losangelesmission.org) to distribute 2500 pairs of new shoes and 3500 pairs of flip-flops to the needy people served during the annual “Community BBQ” sponsored by the Mission.

LTTS Exclusive: Hollywood Knights Slam-Dunk For Charity

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Look To The Stars’ Delinda Lombado recently got the chance to talk to the CEO of Hollywood Knights International, whose celebrity basketball team is a leader in charity fundraising.

Back in 1973, David Mirisch was way ahead of the curve. As founder of Hollywood Knights International, he is credited with being the first (or at least most important) person to pair celebrities with fundraising, producing some of the first consecutive tennis and golf charity tournaments in Hollywood.

Now headed by David’s son Michael (who took the reins as CEO in 1992), Hollywood Knights International are still going strong and its Celebrity Basketball Team has become a symbol for fundraising world-wide.

This years celebrity roster includes: Aaron Carter (House of Carters), Frankie Delgado (The Hills, Bromance, Keeping up with the Kardashians), Josh Henderson (90210, Desperate Housewives), James Kyson Lee (Heroes), James Lesure (Lipstick Jungle, Las Vegas), Cody Linley (Dancing With The Stars, Hannah Montana), Venom (American Gladiators), Wolf (American Gladiators) and Aaron Yoo (Friday the 13th, Disturbia).

Among the thousands of stars, musicians, and world-class athletes who have devoted their time and influence at Hollywood Knights International events: Frank Sinatra, Charlton Heston, Gregory Peck, Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Jessica Simpson, Ashlee Simpson, Mariska Hargitay, Coolio, David Arquette, Michael Landon, Merv Griffin, Muhammad Ali, Joe Dimaggio, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Evander Holyfield, Mark Harmon, Matthew Perry, Tara Reid, Fergie, Backstreet Boys, Woody Harrelson, Bruce Jenner, Pat Boone, Mario Lopez, Wilt Chamberlain, Gladys Knight, Sugar Ray Leonard, Olivia Newton-John, Pamela Anderson, Shaquille O’Neal, Tony Hawk, Wayne Gretzky, Jimmy Connors, Mike Tyson, Buzz Aldrin, Kevin Sorbo, Boyz II Men, Joe Mantegna and many more.

From March 16-22, the full-service celebrity events production and promotional firm will be making our troops happy during their annual USO Hawaii Tour.

Hollywood Knights International’s CEO, Michael Mirisch, along with HKI’s Director of Marketing/PR, Vicky Mirisch, were kind enough to speak to us about their USO Tour and what drives them to produce some remarkable events.

First of all, tell us more about the USO Tour?

“Our second USO tour takes place in Hawaii and consists of basketball games of celebrity players versus our US troops and will be held on Army, Air Force, and Marines bases. The games are high energy, fun antics, lots of fan interaction on the court, and of course some healthy competition between the players. There will also be autograph signings during halftime and lots of pictures taken with fans and celebrities,” explained Vicky.

I know most of your events are open to the public, is this also the case with the USO Tour?

“Unfortunately, the games are not open to the public; only military personnel and their families.”

What is the most rewarding aspect of being part of this organization?

“That’s an easy question. Raising money to help people all over the world through events that incorporate celebrities, fun, and giving back to the community. There is a feeling of incredible satisfaction after every event we produce because we know at the end of the day countless lives are going to change for the better. There is that quote from Emerson that states: “to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, that is to have succeeded.” This quote hangs in our office and we read it every single day. It really sums it all up for us."

Have you seen an increase in awareness about ‘charity’ from the celebrities involved?

“The majority of the celebrities with whom we work are charitable people in general, and want to give back to the community. It’s not something you can fake,” said Michael. “Most of our events are not paid personal appearances where the stars receive a fee, so when you see a celebrity at a Hollywood Knights event, they are lending their name to the cause itself. We are so grateful to the countless celebrities that have year after year taken the time out of their busy schedules to support our events and the charities that are involved.”

Is there any celebrity in particular that has gone above-and-beyond to lend their name and time to the Hollywood Knights International?

“The truth is, it’s impossible to just name one celebrity,” Vicky told us. "But there are several people who, over the years, have contributed so much to our programs: Josh Henderson and Wesley Jonathan, The Miz, Adrian R’Mante, Brutha, Bryan Datillo, Thad Luckingbill.

Michael: What was it like to take over as CEO? Growing up with such an incredible role model (David of course) must have been an amazing experience?

“My father is an icon and pioneer in the celebrity fundraising business. He pretty much invented this genre and at 73, he’s still producing events. He is an incredible role model and it’s been a blessing and my good fortune to have him as a father first and foremost, and also a business mentor. He continues to inspire me every single day. I became CEO when I officially took the basketball team under my wing and infused it with young talent that packed the gyms out with screaming fans.”

What was the public reaction like when HKI first started producing events? Was it embraced by Hollywood?

“It was a new concept, but it was definitely embraced. The fact that we’re still here and thriving is a testament to that!”

What was the driving force behind David establishing HKI? It seems that no one else was doing this in the 70’s, so what ignited the spark?

“Back in the early 1970’s, David was a very successful publicist with clients such as Merv Griffin, Omar Sharif, Johnny Mathis, [”Pat Boone":http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/548-pat-boone], Lindsay Wagner, Raquel Welch, The Supremes and Perry Como. He was representing Tony Trabert, the tennis champion and also representing Murietta Hot Springs in Palm Springs. He decided to put the two together and create a celebrity tennis tournament. A few other events were added and the outcome was a successful event that he really enjoyed producing – and the public enjoyed attending. He realized that this was a niche business that he could launch and he’s been doing it ever since!"

If HKI could eradicate one ‘thing’ (hunger, poverty, cancer, homelessness) from the face of the Earth, what would it be?

“Delinda, great question but tough to answer! But HKI seems to gravitate towards causes that help children in need. So many kids are suffering in the world. We also find that celebrities gravitate and involve themselves more when they can lend their names to children’s causes as well. "

In your opinion, do celebrities make better golfers, ballers or soccer players?

“There are so many amazing celebrity golfers, then basketball players, then poker players. The other sports are more for show and fun than skill!”

Who is the best Hollywood Knight Int. celebrity basketball player? Soccer player?

“Basketball player is a tie between Cylk Cozart and Nana Gbewonyo. Golfer is hands down Jack Wagner.”

Craziest stunt one of your ‘celebrities’ has pulled in efforts to raise awareness?

“Wolf from American Gladiators actually climbed up the basketball backboards and caught the balls as they were going in the baskets and slammed dunked them in! At first we were all worried if the backboards would collapse; Wolf is a built like a body builder. But the fans went crazy and it was just the funniest thing to watch. "

Any thoughts, ideas or quotes regarding what we all can do in terms of making this world a better place?

“Try to live your life without being selfish. Focus on the positive, because there’s no benefit to focusing on the negative. Smile at people and show kindness, even if you have to fake it, over time it will feel natural. Most importantly, learn to love yourself first, faults and all, so that you can honestly and sincerely show love to everyone that matters to you.”

LTTS and Delinda would like to thank Vicky, Michael and David Mirisch for their time and dedication to helping the less fortunate and keeping all of us entertained while doing so.

Here’s just a sampling of what the Hollywood Knights have planned for this year: The Foothill Aids Project Celebrity Bowling Classic (April 09); Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley Celebrity Golf Classic (May); Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Celebrity Fishing Tournament (May); A.G.Spanos Golf Tournament (June); Cedars Sinai Sports Spectacular at the Century Plaza Hotel, California (June); Byron Scott Foundation Gala Dinner in Century City CA (August); The K.I.S. Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament (Oct).

For more info and a list of all events, please visit:
HOLLYWOOD KNIGHTS INTERNATIONAL

LTTS Exclusive: Inside A Night To Make A Difference with Host Michelle Vink

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Michelle Vink

Look To The Stars’ lead host, Michelle Vink was on hand as a host of Leeza Gibbons’ A Night To Make A Difference Fundraiser on Oscar night. Read her story below:

“Without hope, life is just not worth living”…

Those were the words from Harvey Milk from the Oscar-winning movie, Milk. Despite the uncertain state of the economy and the lack of faith we keep hearing about on the news, there was an overwhelming resurgence of hopeful optimism at the Oscars this year. Winning storylines like Slumdog Millionaire and Milk captured that very essence.

A new type of Oscar party

I recall reading that Slumdog director Danny Boyle placed the money to be paid to the 3 lead child actors in a trust until they complete grade school, and that the production company set up a driver to take the kids to school every day until they are 16 years old. When the movie was nominated for an Oscar alongside all the Milk nominations, I knew it would be a good year.

Soon after that I learned of a new type of Oscar party that Leeza Gibbons was coordinating, called A Night to Make A Difference. The timing was impeccable, and before I knew it I was invited to help host the event.

Michelle with Leeza and co-host, Russell.

Celebrity organisers with special causes

Leeza wanted to “take the global stage of Oscar Night and use it to put the focus on advocacy, philanthropy and volunteerism.” With a team of volunteers and a production team fueled with the same passion, Leeza did just that. Helped by Olivia Newton-John, music legend David Foster, and several co-hosts, the team created “A Party with a Purpose.” This monumental event not only benefited Leeza Gibbons’ Memory Foundation and the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre, but also raised awareness for philanthropy and inspired a feeling of hope. This inaugural event was streamed live here on LooktotheStars.org, and on other sites including Variety.com , LeezaGibbonsOscarEvent.com, Glam.com and ExtraTV.com.

With the aid of Jessica Biel and her Make The Difference Network, an opportunity was created for viewers to donate to the cause or just open the door for people to get involved in a charity that is close to their own hearts. Check out MTDN.com for more information on Jessica’s charity.

Jessica Biel – photo by Levi Walker

An all-star cast of celebrity givers

Celebrities who came out to support this event and celebrate Hollywood’s big heart included Laila Ali (who uses her celebrity to get kids excited about physical fitness), Mel B., Jessica Biel, Wilson Cruz, Hilary Duff, Teri Hatcher, Tony Hawk, Paris Hilton, Slash & Perla Hudson (who donated a guitar to the auction), Kym Johnson, Mario Lopez, Melissa Gilbert, Jane Seymour & James Keach, Cindy Margolis, Terrell Owens, Holly Robinson-Peete, Suzanne Somers, Dee Wallace, Forest & Keisha Whitaker and many, many others. I was honored to interview Wilson Cruz (He’s Just Not That Into You) immediately following Dustin Lance Black’s win for Milk and I was moved by his passionate desire for change.

Michelle talks to Teri Hatcher during the event.

A responsibility to help

Rex Lee said of using his celebrity status for good, “For whatever reason, people out in the world pay attention to us, and if I say I support Olivia Newton John and building a new cancer center out in Australia, people listen. There is a responsibily in that.”

Michael Buble expressed his feelings on helping others, too, saying, “I think most people hopefully have compassion and empathy. We’ve been blessed, and we should help.”

Michael Buble and Paris Hilton – photo by Levi Walker

Manuela Testolini, founder of In A Perfect World, talked about giving back, saying, “It’s mutually beneficial. The thing that unites us despite our circumstances is the desire to create better world.”

Making a difference with makeovers

Another special touch to the event was the five women that were “hired” as extras from the LA Women’s Shelter. Celebrity hairdresser Ken Paves supervised red carpet makeovers for these women, providing hair, makeup and wardrobe. Shoes were donated by Jessica Simpson. The women were given life coaching lessons and a boost of confidence to help them show others that change is possible, that we can always reinvent ourselves (just like Madonna), and that there is always room for a second chance.

“Help other people”

While on the red carpet, Jane Seymour said, “It’s not just the Oscars, but giving back and helping other people. It’s about what you can do to help other people right now. The more we help other people, the better it will be for all of us. My mum always used to say to me, ‘When life is tough, go out and help other people’ […] Every single person on this planet can make a difference – it’s just an act of kindness.”

David Foster and Jane Seymour – photo by Levi Walker

So despite what we have been hearing on the news, it looks like there are a few of us out there that still believe in hope. Thank you, Leeza — it truly was a party with a purpose.

Singers Make Paper Dolls For Charity Auction

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Some of the biggest country stars on the planet have decorated paper dolls in an exciting new charity initiative.

Carrie Underwood, Alan Jackson Trace Adkins, Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley, Clint Black, Tracy Byrd, LeAnn Rimes, Willie Nelson, Jewel, Wynonna, Rascal Flatts, Faith Hill, Keith Urban, and Reba McEntire – as well as Kid Rock, Kelly Clarkson, Jessica Simpson and Jordin Sparks – are among the 50 singers who have put pen to paper and let their artistic skills out of the closet to design paper dolls, which will benefit Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital.

Through Project Paper Doll, the Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt “reminds us that tomorrow can be a better day – every day – when we all work together to combine inspiration, innovation and knowledge to Make Something Happen.”

Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital is a leading provider of healthcare for children, serving Middle Tennessee and beyond. The 222 bed facility includes a variety of family accommodations and is also a teaching facility, as well as home to internationally recognized research. This year, more than 154,000 children were seen in their clinics, over 43,000 children seen in the Emergency Department and nearly 13,000 admissions to the hospital.

The paper dolls will be auctioned on eBay from November 28 to December 17.

Stars Believe In Santa

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

Jessica Simpson, Martha Stewart, Carlos Santana, and Donald Trump have signed up to help brighten the lives of children at Christmas.

Beginning this Sunday, the four will appear in commercials for the Macy’s Believe Campaign, based on the 1897 New York Sun’s famous “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” editorial.

Macy’s will provide mailboxes at “Believe stations” in its stores across the U.S., at which children can mail letters to Santa; kids can even write to Santa at the in-store letter-writing stations. Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for every letter received, up to $1 million.

Further commercials will feature Tommy Hilfiger, Ana de la Reguera, Carlos Ponce and Kenneth Cole.

“‘Believe’ is the articulation of everything we treasure about the holiday season and is an authentic celebration of the Christmas spirit,” the company says in its release. “We felt strongly that this year it was important to remember and embrace the real sentiment of the season. We’d like to inspire all of America to believe.”

The Make-A-Wish Foundation works to bring joy to the lives of children suffering from life-limiting conditions.

To learn more about the Believe Campaign, watch this space, and to learn how you can help the Make-A-Wish Foundation in their work, click here.

Jonas Brothers To Launch the 2008 Red Kettle Campaign

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

On November 27th, the Jonas Brothers will become the latest in the long line of artists to kick off The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign.

The band is excited to perform at halftime during the Dallas Cowboys’ nationally televised Thanksgiving Day game against the Seattle Seahawks, with Nick Jonas saying, “I was born in Dallas, which makes performing with my brothers at the Cowboys’ halftime on Thanksgiving an incredible honor.”

“This year, more than ever, the Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign will make a huge impact for families at Christmas and throughout the year. It’s very important for us to give back,” Joe Jonas added.

The campaign has raised more than $1 billion since its partnership with the football team began back in 1997. Funds raised help the Salvation Army serve 30 million people each year nationwide, with last year’s campaign raising a record $118 million.

Previous artists to perform include Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Sheryl Crow, Destiny’s Child, Toby Keith, LeAnn Rimes, Jessica Simpson, Randy Travis and Reba McEntire.

Eva Longoria To Join Stars At Cancer Gala

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Padres Contra el Cancer – a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for Latino children with cancer and their families – will celebrate its Eighth Annual Fund-Raising Gala, EL SUENO DE ESPERANZA, on Tuesday, October 7.

Chaired by Eva Longoria, the event has a theme of “An Evening for Celebration and Hope” and will pay tribute to the organization’s extraordinary children and families.

Joining Longoria for the evening will be Padres Ambassadors Yancey Arias, Adrian Bellani, Angelica Castro, Matt Cedeno, Beto Cuevas, Cristian de la Fuente, plus guests such as Jessica Alba, Billy Bush, Ricardo Antonio Chavira, Marcia Cross, Oscar De La Hoya, Jamie Foxx, Terrence Howard, Felicity Huffman, Mario Lopez, Constance Marie, Carlos Mencia, Brittany Murphy, Ana Ortiz, Tony Parker, Ken Paves, Paulina Rubio, Roselyn Sanchez, Ryan Seacrest, Jessica Simpson, and many others.

Tickets to the event – which will take place at Hollywood and Highland’s Grand Ballroom in the Kodak Theatre – cost $1,000 and can be purchased here.

Jessica Simpson Performs For Rape Crisis Center

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Jessica Simpson raised her voice at a special rape support charity concert in Las Vegas last night, September 18.

The 28-year-old singer performed songs from her new country album, Do You Know, at the Nina’s Night Out concert in Las Vegas’ Palms Pearl Theater to raise money for the local Rape Crisis Center. Organized by news anchor Nina Radetich, the annual event has raised over $350,000 over the last four years, which has been used to assist local victims of sexual assault.

“To be involved with the cause of this organization is extremely important,” said Simpson before the show. “I think this will be more of a passionate performance than most. It’s important to make a stand for women’s rights. If I can get up there and be any inspiration to women, I am blessed to have that opportunity.”

According to the Rape Crisis Center, it costs an average of $756 to provide one victim with assistance, including an advocate, replacement clothing, support groups and more – and over 800 victims were treated last year.

“The great thing about Nina’s Night Out is it’s a message of prevention,” said Simpson. “I think it’s important as a woman to lend a hand to other women and just try to encourage people that everything’s going to be OK.”

Part of this year’s proceeds will go into the center’s building fund for future construction of a treatment center.

Celebrities Hair the Call of Charity

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:44:09 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

When most people think of Ken Paves, they think of big hair. The “hairstylist of the stars”, dubbed by the world’s media as the “hottest hairdresser in Hollywood”, is the man responsible for taming the locks of celebrities such as Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, and many more of the most beautiful people on the planet.

But now the stylist with the golden scissors has moved from big hair to big give with a new online auction he has organized through the Kompolt Online Auction Agency.

Inspired by the good deeds being achieved by the hit series “Oprah’s Big Give”, Paves has teamed up with a host of his celebrity friends to launch what could be the hottest auction this year, with all proceeds going to the EB Medical Research Foundation. So if it is once-in-a-lifetime celebrity items and experiences you want, hold on to your toupées and read on.

The auction, which can be accessed through eBay, runs until April 7, and features items from stars such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Sharon Stone, Marcia Cross, Bette Midler, and the Eagles. There are signed posters from Jessica Simpson, Eva Longoria, Carmen Electra, and John Travolta, and enough autographed photographs to cover the inside of even the biggest make-up trailer, including snaps from Courteney Cox, Jewel, and Christina Aguilera. And if it is clothes you are after, why not bid on a T-shirt signed by David Arquette, Ashlee Simpson, or Pete Wentz, a soccer jersey autographed by David Beckham, or slip into Victoria Beckham’s jeans.

If that is not enough to send shivers of anticipation through any star-hungry bidder, there is also the opportunity to snap up concert tickets – including meet-and-greets – to shows by Duran Duran and Céline Dion, as well as the chance to hang out with Ashlee Simpson and to visit the set of Scrubs with Donald Faison. There is even the opportunity to take a trip to Ken Paves’ salon with Eva Longoria.

Paves, who is also a spokesperson for Operation Smile, has chosen the EB Medical Research Foundation to recieve 100% of the proceeds from the auction.

The EBMRF is dedicated to increasing awareness of Epidermolysis Bullosa, a condition that affects the skin and can cause painful wounds, similar to burns, to form over up to 75% of a child’s body. Courteney Cox and David Arquette recently pledged to raise $1 million for the foundation.
More information about the disease, as well as the opportunity to purchase a special necklace designed by Cox and Arquette, can be found at www.ebkids.org.

Bid Now For Christmas Gifts

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 11:21:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The countdown to Christmas has begun, and celebrities are doing their best to make holiday shopping easy this year. Several charity auctions have already kicked off to raise money for good causes, including one that may be eBay’s largest sale of celebrity items… ever!

The BID 2 BEAT AIDS online auction will open on December 1, World AIDS Day, and will feature over 1000 specially signed items, ranging from posters to iPods. The annual auction will raise money for LIFEbeat, the music industry’s AIDS fundraising and service charity, and in the past has raised up to $175,000.

The array of memorabilia up for sale this year is simply colossal, with perhaps the most interesting items being a series of “Lend a Hand to LIFEbeat” cards that feature the handprints of over 100 celebrities. Stars such as Britney Spears, Jack Black, and Kathy Griffin traced around the outlines of their hands and decorated their artworks for the auction, and the finished products will make a unique addition to any Christmas stocking.

Also included in the auction is a selection of signed musical instruments. Rapper 50 Cent has donated the tambourines he used during his performance at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards, and Metallica and the Foo Fighters have both donated guitars. There are also over 200 official RIAA gold and platinum record awards up for sale, from artists such as Annie Lennox, Jon Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Green Day. Rare tour crew jackets from Guns N Roses, Cher, George Michael, and Prince are also available.

There are a stack of autographed CDs and DVDs on offer in the auction, from Mariah Carey, Elton John, Rihanna, Fall Out Boy, Maroon 5, Amy Winehouse, and Val Kilmer, as well as books signed by Madonna, Bill Clinton, Rosie O’Donnell, Martha Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Ethan Hawke. Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Elijah Wood, and Usher have all signed posters for the auction.

For those people after something a little different, the auction also includes an iPod designed by Yoko Ono, a box of cereal signed by Will Ferrell, Borat’s hat signed by Sacha Baron Cohen, and a Spiderman action figure autographed by Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst.

And if nothing mentioned so far whets your appetite, there are also signed items from Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, Nelly, Joan Collins, John Travolta, Kanye West, The Cure, Jay-Z, Cameron Diaz, Victoria Beckham, Robin Williams, Hilary Duff, Jason Alexander, Jack Nicholson, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Adam Sandler, John Legend, Jessica Simpson, Whoopi Goldberg, Aerosmith, Denzel Washington, Good Charlotte, James Blunt, Jeremy Piven, Matt Damon, Heath Ledger, Norah Jones, Razorlight, Wyclef Jean, and many more… far too many to list here.

More information and a full list of items can be found at www.bid2beataids.com.

As if this wasn’t enough choice for Christmas shoppers, there are also several other auctions and events on the go at the moment. The biggest of these is the 10th Annual Collaborating For A Cure Benefit Dinner and Auction, a massive black tie gala to be held on November 29. It also happens to be one of the highest grossing charity events held every year in New York, and last year raised over $4 million for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, a non-profit organization that has provided over $55 million in grants to cancer research, and has been instrumental in the development of new cancer drugs.

The gala dinner and live auction will be held at the 69th Regiment Armory on Lexington Avenue, New York City, and over 1200 guests are expected to attend. The host for the evening is Chevy Chase, and attendees will be treated to a very special performance by Glenn Frey and Joe Walsh, members of 70’s rock group, the Eagles.

Selected items up for auction on the night as well as online include dinner with Chevy Chase, the chance to play tennis with Andre Agassi, and a meet and greet with Aerosmith.

More information can be found at www.charitybuzz.com.

Also on the Charitybuzz website is an auction to raise funding for Stand Up For A Cure, an organization dedicated to lung cancer research and awareness.

The auction runs from November 28 until December 12, and features unique items such as the chance to have Andrea Bocelli perform in your own home, the opportunity to have Patti LaBelle host your cocktail party, and VIP tickets to see Céline Dion at Madison Square Gardens.

And if you still can’t find a suitable gift, have a look at the Have A Heart Auction on Charitybuzz. All proceeds from the auction, which features the chance to meet Avril Lavigne, a copy of “An Inconvenient Truth” signed by Al Gore, and a “Godfather II” DVD signed by Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro, will benefit HEART, an organization that aims to foster compassion and respect for all living beings.

But you have to be in quick, as the auction ends on November 29.

Alba, Cook Raise $260K for Variety

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:06:35 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

A Knoxville screening of “Good Luck Chuck” has benefitted the children’s charity Variety of Eastern Tennessee, thanks to the presence of Jessica Alba and Dane Cook. Fans paid $75 to attend the screening and see the actors, raising a total of $260,000 to help disabled children.

The Variety charity screenings began in 2003 with “Radio” and Cuba Gooding Jr., and “Walking Tall” raised funds the following year. 2005 saw “The Dukes of Hazzard” with Jessica Simpson, Seann William Scott and Knoxville native Johnny Knoxville, and last year’s benefit featured “Talladega Nights” with Will Ferrell. Altogether, nearly $1 million has been raised by the screenings.

The funds are used to purchase mobility equipment for children with physical disabilities and are also shared with other children’s agencies such as Second Harvest, Tennessee School for the Deaf and the Empty Stocking Fund.

Kevin Bacon Launches “SixDegrees.org”

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 10:02:12 -0000

Kevin Bacon has launched SixDegrees.org, a new web site that builds on the popularity of the “small world phenomenon” to create a charitable social network and inspire giving to charities online.

Bacon started the network with celebrities who are highlighting their favorite charities – including Kyra Sedgwick (Natural Resources Defense Council), Nicole Kidman (UNIFEM), Ashley Judd (YouthAIDS), Bradley Whitford and Jane Kaczmarek (Clothes Off Our Back), Dana Delany (Scleroderma Research Foundation), Robert Duvall (Pro Mujer), Rosie O’Donnell (Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation), and Jessica Simpson (Operation Smile) – and he encouraged everyone to be celebrities for their own causes by joining the Six Degrees movement.

“SixDegrees.org is about using the idea that we are all connected to accomplish something good,” said Bacon. “It is my hope that Six Degrees will soon be something more than a game or a gimmick. It will also be a force for good, by bringing a social conscience to social networking.”

The game, ‘Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon,’ made the rounds of college campuses over the past decade and lived on to be a shorthand term for the small world phenomenon.

Bacon created SixDegrees.org in partnership with the nonprofit, Network for Good, AOL, and Entertainment Weekly. Through SixDegrees.org, which builds on Network for Good’s giving system for donating to more than one million charities online and AOL’s AIM Pages social networking service, people can learn about and support the charities of celebrities or fundraise for their own favorite causes with their own friends and families. Bacon will match the charitable dollars raised by the top six non-celebrity fundraisers with grants of up to $10,000 each.

“People give to charity because someone they know or respect asks them. So charities are increasingly looking to their supporters – not just themselves – to raise awareness and money online. That means both celebrities and everyday people can make an enormous difference for people in need,” said Bill Strathmann, CEO of Network for Good.

SixDegrees.org harnesses two important online trends: the exponential growth of social networks and the increasing interest in using the web for raising money for charity among family and friends. Through SixDegrees.org, people can upload their own photos and stories and fundraise for the charity of their choice with their own charity badges and AIM Pages.

To kick off the launch of SixDegrees.org, Bacon will attend opening weekend of the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, UT, where he and other celebrities will be encouraging charitable giving. Entertainment Weekly is celebrating SixDegrees.org and Kevin Bacon at its third annual Sundance Festival Opening Weekend Party on January 20 at Jean Louis in Park City. At the party, guests will be able to learn more about SixDegrees.org and celebrities will be encouraged to donate their “swag” to benefit charity. Items will later be listed on eBay using eBay Giving Works.

There will also be a representative from SixDegrees.org in Entertainment Weekly’s Main Street photo studio throughout the week so that when celebrities come to be photographed for the magazine, they can learn more about the organization and find out how they can get involved. Bacon will also be feted at an AOL reception where he will tape an episode of Moviefone.com’s Unscripted with Bradley Whitford, a SixDegrees.org participant and star of “An American Crime” premiering at Sundance.

“AIM Pages and Six Degrees are the perfect pairing as the immense popularity of social networking and the importance of individual giving converge. We look forward to building an important network of good-deed-doers via AIM Pages to benefit the scores of charities associated with Six Degrees,” according to Marcien Jenckes, VP/GM, Instant Messaging & Social Media, AOL.

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