Look To The Stars News: UNICEF

Melissa Etheridge And Rob Thomas Join Live Earth Run For Water

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

Live Earth has announced that two-time Grammy Award-winner and one-time Academy Award winner for Best Song for the Al Gore documentary “An Inconvenient Truth” Melissa Etheridge, and multi-platinum three-time Grammy Award-winner Rob Thomas, will perform live at the Los Angeles and Atlanta Dow Live Earth Run for Water events, respectively.

The largest worldwide water initiative on record to help combat the global water crisis, the Dow Live Earth Run for Water is a series of 6km run/walks (the average distance many women and children walk every day to get water), culminating with water education villages and live musical performances.

“I’m a long-time environmental advocate and believe strongly that it is our duty as a society and as individuals to preserve our planet and its resources,” said Melissa Etheridge. “I want to lend my name and time to this event because the global water crisis is an environmental issue that affects nearly one billion people on the planet and through this event we can raise awareness and money to help address it.”

“I am thrilled to be participating in this important event to bring clean, safe drinking water to the women and children around the world walking 6km every day to sustain their families,” said Rob Thomas. “I encourage the Atlanta community to come out on April 18th because together we can make a difference in the lives of so many.”

The events will take place in nearly 100 cities across 50 countries around the world on April 18, 2010, to raise awareness and funds to help solve the global water crisis. Jessica Biel, Peter Wentz, Angélique Kidjo, Alexandra Cousteau and Jenny Fletcher have already been announced to support events on April 18th. Additional artists announcement for events taking place in Chicago, Minneapolis, and New York coming soon.

Funds raised from the events will benefit Global Water Challenge, a coalition of non-profit organizations working to bring clean, safe drinking water to millions of people worldwide. This includes innovative projects that provide clean drinking water to communities in Haiti, Central America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. GWC has invested in previous projects with donations going towards improving access to water in schools and supporting local entrepreneurs who provide market-based solutions.

Beginning today, Live Earth will donate $1 for each U.S. registration received between now and March 23 for a special Haiti relief fund through GWC coalition partners CARE, Catholic Relief Services, Population Services International, and UNICEF to implement safe drinking water programs on the ground in Haiti. People interested in supporting the Haiti relief fund should register for a Dow Live Earth Run for Water run/walk event in the U.S. before March 23 via The Active Network at http://liveearth.org/run, using promotional code HAITI.

“The money raised from these events will help thousands of people in the developing world get access to clean drinking water. We look forward to investing these funds and impacting lives.” said Paul Faeth, President of Global Water Challenge.

The Los Angeles Dow Live Earth Run for Water event will be held in Exposition Park, near downtown Los Angeles, with the 6km course starting on Exposition Park Drive, turning onto Figueroa and traveling three kilometers toward downtown, turning around at 17th Street for the return three kilometers, and ending in the Water Village in Expo Park. Starting time for the run is 8:30 a.m.

More info on how you can be part of an event near you can be found here.

Stars Come Out For Charity Cocktail Party

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Celebrities flocked to the March 6 ‘Montblanc Charity Cocktail’ event hosted by Harvey and Bob Weinstein in West Hollywood to benefit UNICEF.

Montblanc has been known for generations as a maker of sophisticated, high quality writing instruments, and for their unwavering support of UNICEF.

One year ago, Montblanc committed to raise US$1.5 million for UNICEF between February 2009 and June 2010 through its global Signature for Good initiative. This initiative features twelve of the world’s brightest stars photographed portraying a heroine from one of literature’s timeless classics.

Emily Blunt, Marcia Cross, Andie MacDowell, Helen Hunt, Milla Jovovich, Eva Longoria, Sienna Miller, Christina Ricci, Susan Sarandon, Mira Sorvino, Jessica Lange and Lauren Hutton each donated their portrait to an exhibition and auction to support UNICEF.

The Montblanc Charity Cocktail to honor UNICEF celebrated the Weinstein Company’s Academy Award Nominees “Inglourious Basterds” (8 nominations); “Nine” (4 nominations); and “A Single Man” (1 nomination).

Celebrities such as Jackie Bissett, Adrien Brody, Kristin Davis, Lawrence Fishburne, Tom Ford, Diane Kruger, Nicole Richie, Quentin Tarantino and many others attended this exclusive Charity Gala hosted by Montblanc, where Montblanc International CEO Lutz Bethge handed over a subtotal of US$2 million to Ms. Caryl M. Stern, president and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF.

Following the event, the Montblanc Wish Tree, bearing these special aspirations for those less fortunate, will tour the world, and return to New York City in September where it will be exhibited for the international launch of the Montblanc Donation Pen John Lennon to collect more wishes. At this special occasion, Montblanc will further announce the charity programs which will benefit from the donations of the sales of the Montblanc John Lennon pen. At the end of the year, the Montblanc Wish Tree will be auctioned to benefit education programs for children in need.

For more information about Montblanc Charity Initiatives, please visit www.montblanc.com or become a fan on Facebook.

Shakira Receives Charity Medal

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Shakira has once again received a medal from the U.N. labor agency for her charity work.

At a small ceremony Wednesday in Geneva, U.N. labor chief Juan Somavia called Shakira a “true ambassador for children and young people, for quality education and social justice.”

The 33-year-old Colombian pop star’s foundation, the Barefoot Foundation, provides nutrition to more than 6,000 children in Colombia. In addition to working as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, she is also member of the ALAS Foundation that advocates for children across Latin America.

Shakira said in a statement Thursday that social, economic and environmental policies must focus on children and their education.

Exclusive Photo Feature: Olympians' Hearts of Gold

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

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

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

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

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

Angela Ruggiero (Hockey)

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

Rachael Flatt (Figure Skating)

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

Johnny Spillane (Nordic Combined)

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Todd Lodwick (Nordic Combined)

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

Julia Mancuso (Alpine Skiing – won 2 silver medals)

WWF Climate Change

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

Evan Lysacek (Figure Skating – won a gold medal)

Celebrity board member for Ronald McDonald House

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

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

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

Hannah Teter (Snowboarding – won a silver medal)

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

Emily Cook (Freestyle Skiing)

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

Gretchen Bleiler (Snowboarding)

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

Tanith Belbin & Ben Agosto (Ice Dancing)

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

Steve Nyman (Alpine Skiing)

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

Erin Pac (Bobsledding – won a bronze)

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

Johnny Weir (Figure Skating)

Elton John AIDS Foundation
Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity
UNICEF

Noelle Pikus-Pace (Skeleton)

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Lindsey Jacobellis (Snowboarding)

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

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

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

Shakira Launches Early Childhood Charity Initiative

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:00:00 -0000

Grammy Award-winning artist Shakira and World Bank Group President Robert B. Zoellick have launched a US$300 million joint initiative aimed at expanding development programs for young children in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The “Early Childhood Initiative: An Investment for Life” seeks to focus cost-effective policies and resources in the region, while mobilizing public support to improve opportunities for its young citizens and thereby help overcome deep inequalities, said Zoellick during a signing ceremony of the partnership agreement between Shakira’s ALAS Foundation, Columbia University’s Earth Institute and the World Bank, held at the Bank’s Washington D.C. headquarters.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs provide children with adequate nutrition, healthcare and stimulating environments from the moment of conception through age six –a period of development crucial for achieving a child’s full potential. The initiative will help expand ECD programs in a region where 9 million children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition and 22 million lack access to early basic care.

“If we want to build a better world, we have to give children the chance to improve their lives, no matter where they are born or how difficult their circumstances. By giving every child a fair start in life, we are improving our collective future,” Shakira told the an audience of 100 VIPs, including Latin American and Caribbean ambassadors and officials from the education sector, along with representatives from other international organizations.

The singer made a special trip to the Oval Office to meet Barack Obama as part of the launch: “It was such a privilege to sit down with the President in the Oval Office to discuss our shared commitment to education and early childhood development. We agreed that investing in our children is the smartest strategy governments can use to boost economic growth, fight poverty, and promote global security and peace. We will be working closely with the President and his staff to implement his vision – for Latinos, children in the United States, and around the world.”

The Colombian artist is a leading activist for children and the founder of ALAS – a coalition of Latin American artists and business leaders promoting the adoption of comprehensive ECD programs in the region.

The groundbreaking initiative will provide over the next two years US$300 million in loans, grants and trust fund resources, as well as technical support, towards the design and implementation of ECD policies in Latin America and the Caribbean. It will also expand a learning community of practitioners to exchange knowledge and experiences.

“ALAS – and Shakira in particular – have made an enormous contribution to placing young children at the heart of the public policy priorities in Latin America ,” said Zoellick.“We are pleased to work with her, ALAS and the Earth Institute to offer hope and opportunity for children who deserve a better future.”

Zoellick and Shakira explained that investments in ECD programs are among the most effective –and cost-effective– a country can make as participating children demonstrate improved health and academic outcomes, while showing higher productivity and income in later years. They noted that delays in early childhood interventions are difficult and costly to reverse later in life, as the Bank’s recent publication The Promise for Early Childhood Development in Latin America illustrates.

Citing Haiti’s emergency response as a timely example of working with partners, Zoellick said that ECD initiatives will play a key role in Haiti’s reconstruction, where attention will be placed on rebuilding not only the country’s infrastructure but also the potential of its people. He stressed the importance of partnering with UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Food Programme, among others, to provide urgent relief to the Haitian children and mitigate the long-term impact of the January 12 earthquake on an entire generation of Haitians.

One of the initiative’s first programs will be a partnership with Mexico’s state agency CONAFE to provide training for parents and caregivers to improve their competencies and practices in caring for children 0-4. The initiative will focus on the poorest 172 municipalities in Mexico, located primarily in its southern states.

In addition to providing funds to participating countries, the Early Childhood Initiative will work with the ECD Secretariat for Latin America and the Caribbean, a project of ALAS, the Earth Institute, and the governments of Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Panama, Paraguay and Argentina, to develop best practices and identify promising pilot projects for children under 6. This work will be presented at the UN’s Millennium Development Goals Summit in September and the XX Ibero-American Summit of the regional Heads of State in November in Mar del Plata, Argentina.

Pete Wentz Named UNICEF Tap Project Ambassador

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:00:00 -0000

The U.S. Fund for UNICEF today announced that musician/entrepreneur and social philanthropist, Pete Wentz will be the national spokesperson for the 2010 UNICEF Tap Project.

Now in its fourth year, the UNICEF Tap Project is a grassroots initiative that will take place during World Water Week 2010 (March 21-27) and invites individuals to donate $1 or more for tap water at participating restaurants to provide clean water to children around the world.

Best known as the bassist for the immensely popular rock band, Fall Out Boy, Wentz has been regularly active—both at home and abroad—in supporting social causes which impact the well-being of children.

“It’s truly an honor to be the national spokesperson for the Tap Project and support efforts to provide clean water to children in the developing world,” said Wentz. “Water is something that we as Americans often take for granted but the reality is, the lack of clean and accessible drinking water kills 4,100 children under the age of five every day and as a new father I have become highly attuned to the needs of children everywhere. Unfortunately, it’s usually when emergencies like Haiti occur, that the importance of clean water really becomes apparent to the rest of us.”

In its four years of existence, the UNICEF Tap Project has become a uniquely hip, award-winning national campaign which has attracted a wide swath of volunteers and celebrity supporters. With a dynamic presence in social media and vibrant advertising creative as a mainstay, the Tap Project has been particularly popular among the college-aged demographic and the young urban professional set.

As national spokesperson for the UNICEF Tap Project, Wentz will be the face and voice of the campaign offering the Tap Project to individuals and restaurants across the nation as a simple and effective way to make a difference in a child’s life. Wentz will not only lend his name and likeness to support the initiative, but will also be available for national media opportunities which allow him to raise awareness of the global water crisis and its impact on children.

Since its inception in 2007, the UNICEF Tap Project has raised nearly $1.5 million in the U.S. and has helped to provide clean water to millions of children around the world. Countries slated to receive 2010 funding include: Central African Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Togo and Vietnam.

In 2009 alone, more than 1,500 restaurants from 40 states and more than 3100 volunteers participated in the national campaign, making it the largest volunteer mobilization effort for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. Giorgio Armani's men’s fragrance, ACQUA DI GIO FOR MEN, is the 2010 National Supporter of the UNICEF Tap Project.

“Whether it’s supporting the psychosocial needs of children affected by conflict in Uganda, or helping organize American youth to lobby Congress on social justice issues, Pete has been a true and dedicated friend to the world’s children,” said Caryl M. Stern, president and CEO, the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “We feel strongly that Pete is the right fit for Tap and we’re thrilled he has agreed to join us in our larger mission to reduce the number of preventable childhood deaths from 24,000 daily to zero.”

This year’s initiative will rely heavily on volunteers expanding their efforts beyond restaurant recruitment to include other grassroots activities like community water walks, dinner parties, fundraisers, concerts and more.

Previous national spokespeople for the Tap Project have included, UNICEF ambassadors: Sarah Jessica Parker (2007), Lucy Liu (2008) and Joel and Benji Madden (2009).

Nearly 900 million people do not have access to clean water and nearly half of those people are children. Young children are the first to get sick and die from waterborne and sanitation-related illnesses including diarrheal diseases and malaria.

UNICEF works in more than 100 countries around the world to improve access to safe water and sanitation facilities in schools and communities, and to promote safe hygiene practices. Over the past 15 years, more than a billion people gained access to improved drinking water and sanitation facilities thanks to UNICEF’s efforts. Every day, 24,000 children die of preventable causes, and UNICEF is committed to doing whatever it takes to make that number zero. With $1, UNICEF can provide one child access to safe, clean water for 40 days.

For more information or to register as a volunteer, visit www.tapproject.org

Peter Buffett Joins Angélique Kidjo For Charity Single

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:00:00 -0000

Emmy-award winning musician and philanthropist Peter Buffett has teamed up with UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and Grammy award-winning musician Angélique Kidjo, to release “A Song For Everyone” on February 12. 100% of proceeds from the sale of the song will benefit the Batonga Foundation, an organization founded by Angelique to advance education for girls in Africa.

Fans of Peter’s pop/rock and new age-influenced music can expect to be pleasantly surprised by the new dimension that Angelique’s signature worldly sound brings to the single. Writing in their respective native tongues, the uplifting, vibrant song has lyrics in both English and Yoruba.

Peter and Angelique encourage fans to share the music with friends and support the Batonga Foundation simultaneously, by using the “gift” function on iTunes or Peter’s online store at www.peterbuffett.com/store.

Every cent helps: 2 downloads buys a girl a math set; 3 downloads buys a girl lunch during the school day; 5 downloads buys a girl a textbook; 10 downloads buys a girl a school bag or uniform; and 1,000 downloads pays school fees for an entire classroom of 45 girls to go to school for a year!

The Batonga Foundation gives girls a secondary school and higher education so they can take leadership roles in Africa. They are doing this by granting scholarships, building secondary schools, increasing enrollment, improving teaching standards, providing school supplies, supporting mentor programs, exploring alternative education models, and advocating for community awareness of the value of education for girls by addressing gender prejudice. The foundation currently has an active presence in the countries of Benin, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Mali, and Sierra Leone. The name “Batonga” stems from a word Angelique made up as a response to taunts when she was going to school— the boys didn’t know what the word meant, but to her it was an assertion of the rights of girls to education. To donate to the foundation, please visit www.batongafoundation.org/donate.

“Collaborating with Angelique was a wonderful surprise – her passion, energy and commitment – both to her music and in support of girl’s education was incredibly inspiring,” says Peter Buffett.

Angelique states, “Our ancestors fought for our freedom and the pride of human kind. Each one of us has a responsibility to hold the torch and pass it on intact to the next generation.” She hopes to give the next generation of young African girls the chance to realize their dreams and create a better future for their children through her work with Batonga.

 Peter’s social action site, IsThereSomethingICanDo.com, has recently partnered with DoSomething.org and is currently working towards a site re-launch this spring. Fans can visit Do Something’s “Celebs Gone Good” blog to see behind-the-scenes video of Angelique and Peter, at www.dosomething.org/celebsgonegood.

British Stars Back Robin Hood Tax For Charity

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

British actor Bill Nighy is fronting a campaign to introduce a global tax on banks’ financial transactions to fight poverty.

The Robin Hood Tax is backed by charities such as Oxfam and UNICEF, and is led by writer/director Richard Curtis (Notting Hill).

“You could ignore the big problems facing the world … or you can work to find an innovative, modern, regular way of accumulating a fund of money,” the campaign wrote in an open letter to the leaders of the country’s political parties. “We would ask you to seriously consider the Robin Hood Tax as that radical new option – a small tax on bankers that would make a huge difference to the UK, to the poorest countries and to our planet. Let’s turn the crisis for the banks into an opportunity for Britain and the world.”

The campaign calls on banks to pay a levy of 0.005% on every transaction on international markets. The tax would raise over US$175 billion for charities.

To find out more, and watch a promotional video featuring Bill Nighy, visit RobinHoodTax.org.uk.

Angelina Jolie Lands In Haiti For Charity Visit

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:50:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Angelina Jolie was in the Dominican Republic earlier this week to visit survivors of the Haitian earthquake, and is now in Haiti to view the devastation and raise awareness of what still needs to be done to help.

The actress – who, along with Brad Pitt, donated $1 million to the cause immediately after the disaster – was joined by Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, the son of Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, for the trip to the Dario Contreras Hospital in the Dominacan Republic.

“She spoke with several children and a Haitian woman who recognized her and requested help,” said Dario Manon, hospital spokesman.

The actress is traveling on behalf of UNICEF, and touched down in Haiti just hours ago.

“It is incredibly horrible to see a catastrophe of this size hit a people who have been suffering from extreme poverty, violence and unrest for so many decades,” she said.

David Beckham's Big Charity Heart

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

Written by Tim Saunders

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

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

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

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

Mia Farrow Disparages Illegal Haiti Adoptions

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Susan Fredricks

Actress and UNICEF Good Will Ambassador Mia Farrow was shocked at the attempted kidnapping of 33 Haitian children by ten American missionaries.

Farrow stated that the abduction attempt of these children was “deplorable” and insists offering parents a better life for their children elsewhere is “completely unacceptable and immoral”. The mother of 11 adopted children further commented that if groups and charities want to help the children of Haiti, they should offer support to the orphanages and family members inside the country.

The 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti hard on January 12th which left thousands of family devastated in its wake. Adoption practices in Haiti are now under scrutiny after news hit of the Americans trying to take the children out of their country. The ten Americans who belong to a Christian charity group were charged with kidnapping, conspiracy and child criminal association.

Shakira, Alicia Keys, Usher Join Up For NBA Charity

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:00:00 -0000

International superstar and Grammy Award-winning pop diva Shakira will team up with 12-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and actress Alicia Keys for a one-of-a-kind performance headlining the 2010 NBA All-Star Game Halftime Show on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, Feb. 14, to benefit NBA Cares.

Shakira will dazzle the crowd performing her current single “Give It Up To Me” in addition to the title single “She Wolf” off of her current hit album She Wolf. Alicia Keys will keep the stage hot belting out her classic hit “No One” from the 2007 multi-platinum selling album As I Am. Keys will also perform the chart topping single “Empire State of Mind” as well as deliver a sweet serenade of her smash hit “Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart” off of her current chart-topping album The Element of Freedom.

Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Usher will perform his high-energy single “More” during the introductions of the 2010 NBA All-Stars. In addition, TNT filmed an exclusive music video with Usher for the single “More” which will run in 600 Regal Cinemas beginning Friday, Jan. 29 and serve as a promotional spot for the 2010 NBA All-Star. Usher will also treat the crowd to a special performance of the fan favorite single “Yeah!” from his 2004 multi-platinum selling album Confessions.

NBA All-Star 2010 in Dallas will bring together some of the most talented and passionate players in the league’s history for a global celebration of the game. This will be the second NBA All-Star in Dallas. The city also hosted the event in 1986.

NBA Cares is the league’s social responsibility initiative that builds on the NBA’s long tradition of addressing important social issues in the United States and around the world. Through this umbrella program, the NBA, its teams and players have donated more than $115 million to charity, provided more than one million hours of hands-on service to communities around the world, and created more than 440 places where kids and families can live, learn or play. NBA Cares works with internationally recognized youth-serving programs that support education, youth and family development, and health-related causes, including: KaBOOM!, Special Olympics, Boys' and Girls' Clubs of America, UNICEF, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Global Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosi

The 2010 NBA All-Star Game performances will take place before the largest crowd ever to attend a basketball game – at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The NBA All-Star Game will air live at 8 p.m. ET on TNT, Score Canada, ESPN Radio, and in more than 200 countries in more than 40 languages.

Hope For Haiti Now Breaks Charity Records

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:45:00 -0000

Friday night’s Hope for Haiti Now telethon, organized by George Clooney, has so far raised more than $57 million for the earthquake relief effort in Haiti.

Besides setting a record for the most money raised by a disaster relief telethon, the charity’s Hope for Haiti album – featuring performances on the telethon — became the largest one-day album pre-order in iTunes history.

Performers included: Robert Pattinson, Christina Aguilera, Coldplay, Alicia Keys, Bruce Springsteen, Halle Berry, Julia Roberts, Taylor Swift, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock, Keith Urban and Madonna among others.

The money will be split between 8 organizations: Oxfam America, Partners in Health, the Red Cross, UNICEF, the World Food Programme, Yéle Haiti Foundation and the Clinton-Bush Haiti Foundation.

Hope for Haiti is accepting donations for the next 6 months online at hopeforhaitinow.org, by phone at 877-99-Haiti or by texting GIVE to 50555.

George Clooney Brings Hope To Haiti Tonight

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:30:00 -0000

It will be a big night for charity tonight, as George Clooney's Hope For Haiti telethon hits TV screens across America and around the world.

Hosted by Clooney, Wyclef Jean and Anderson Cooper, the show will feature performances from Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Stevie Wonder and Taylor Swift in New York, as well as Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Shakira, Sting, Keith Urban, Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow in Los Angeles. There will even be performances from Coldplay, Bono, Jay-Z, The Edge and Rihanna in London.

All performances will be available for download on iTunes for 99 cents on Saturday. The two-hour program will air commercial-free across ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, CNN, BET, the CW, HBO, MTV, VH1 and CMT on Friday at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The special will also air on PBS, TNT, Showtime, Comedy Central, Bravo, E! Entertainment Network, National Geographic Channel, Oxygen, G4, Centric, Current TV, Fuse, MLB Network, Epix, Palladia, SoapNet, Style, Discovery Health and Planet Green, as well as Canada’s CTV, CBC Television, Global Television and MuchMusic. It will also air internationally on BET International, CNN International, National Geographic and MTV Networks International, available in 640 million homes worldwide. “Hope for Haiti” will be the first U.S.-based telethon airing on MTV in China. Facebook and Twitter are the official social media partners who will help to drive donations and tune-in to the telethon.

All donations will directly benefit Oxfam America, Partners in Health, Red Cross, UNICEF and Wyclef’s Yéle Haiti Foundation. Facebook and MySpace have signed on as official social-media partners to help steer viewers to the telethon and drive donations.

Additionally, the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund and World Food Programme have joined the list of relief organizations that will benefit from the show, with proceeds to be split evenly among each organization’s individual Haiti relief funds.

“Hope For Haiti Now” will be the most widely distributed telethon in history, internationally and across media platforms, including live streaming globally on sites including YouTube, Hulu, MySpace, Fancast, AOL, MSN.com, Yahoo, Bing.com, BET.com, MTV.com, and Rhapsody, and RightCelebrity.com will be streaming the show live with a donation of 1 cent to the American Red Cross for every person who joins their live blog. The telethon is also available on mobile via Alltel, AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, and FloTV.

Download Rihanna For Charity

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Rihanna appeared on a special episode of the Oprah Show on Wednesday to perform her version of Bob Marley’s Redemption Song.

The song is currently available on iTunes, RihannaNow.com and Oprah.com, with all proceeds going to the Red Cross, UNICEF, Oxfam and Partners in Health.

The singer appeared on the show with R&B singer Maxwell, whose song Fistful of Tears is also available for charity download from Oprah.com.

Also on the show was Wyclef Jean, who talked about his recent trip to Haiti and his first-hand account of the devastation.

Alyssa Milano's Haiti Charity Challenge Answered

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:31:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Alyssa Milano has just announced that her charity challenge issued via Twitter last week has been met.

The star has used Twitter to say “Just woke up to the amazing news that PokerStars.com matched my Tweet Challenge for Haiti! Wooooohoooooo! Thank you!”

Milano donated $50,000 to UNICEF last week, and challenged corporations to match or better it.

You can follow Milano’s Tweets here

Paula Abdul Auctions Michael Jackson Opus For Charity

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:30:00 -0000

Paula Abdul used her appearance on Larry King’s Haiti show to announce that she is auctioning off her copy of The Michael Jackson Opus, signed by dozens of celebrities, to benefit earthquake victims through the Charitybuzz Heal Haiti Auction.

The money raised will be split between the US Fund for UNICEF and The American Red Cross.

The Official Michael Jackson OPUS is the only new publication approved and endorsed by the Estate of Michael Joseph Jackson. With over 400 pages of stunning and never-before-seen photographs plus personal, heartfelt essays written exclusively for this OPUS by those who knew Michael best and respected him most. This one-of-a-kind tribute book will help fans treasure the memory of an extraordinary person and performer.

This special book is signed by Paula Abdul and other celebrities.

The Charitybuzz Heal Haiti Auction is currently live at www.charitybuzz.com/healhaiti. More items and experiences donated by A-list stars will be added every day, including Ben Stiller, Jimmy Kimmel, Gilles Martini and Selena Gomez.

LookToTheStars.org will keep you updated as more celebrities donate to Charity Buzz auctions for Haiti.

George Clooney Announces Haiti Telethon Stars

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

George Clooney has revealed some of the big names he has recruited for this Friday’s Telethon for Haiti.

The show will be broadcast around the world on January 22, and will be hosted by Clooney in LA, Wyclef Jean in New York, and CNN’s Anderson Cooper in Haiti. Donations will go to Oxfam America, Partners in Health, Red Cross, UNICEF and Wyclef’s Yéle Haiti Foundation.

The line-up so far includes U2's Bono, Alicia Keys, Sting, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and many more yet to be announced.

“We’re doing a telethon on all the channels, every network in the country and international as well,” said Clooney. "It’s an unbelievable show. Bono’s written a song for it and songs are going to available on iTunes that night.

“People in Haiti have absolutely nothing. There are times when, as bad as it is for many people in this country, people also realise how much worse it is for them and they are very compassionate.”

Malaak Compton-Rock To Talk For Charity In Kentucky

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Susan Fredricks

The Welcome House in Northern Kentucky has announced its annual fundraising benefit, ‘Home is Where the Heart Is’, will be held on January 30 at The Madison Grand Ballroom, Covington, Kentucky. Featured special guest speaker is Malaak Compton-Rock, philanthropist, author and wife of entertainer Chris Rock.

Compton-Rock is founder of The Angel Rock Project, an e-village promoting everything to do with service, humanity, peace, equality, social responsibility, and sustainable change. She is also involved with the U.S. Fund for UNICEF and has founded the non-profit company, StyleWORKS, which provides a wide range of grooming services for women transitioning from welfare to the workplace. Compton-Rock was also a judge on Oprah Winfrey's ‘The Big Give.’

Welcome House of Northern Kentucky Inc. was founded in 1982 to work with the community by providing assistance for families and individuals who are homeless or who may become homeless.

All proceeds from this charity event will go directly to Welcome House of Northern Kentucky. Tickets are $50 for individuals, $80 for couples and tables of ten seats are also available for $500. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.welcomehouse-heart.com or by calling 859 431 8717.

Stars Join Larry King To Talk Charity For Haiti

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

As reported earlier by LookToTheStars.org, a host of stars joined Larry King on CNN last night to encourage people to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The broadcast raised over $5 million for UNICEF and the Red Cross.

Famous faces such as Alyssa Milano, Mick Jagger, Ben Stiller, Ringo Starr, Colin Powell, John Mayer, Seal, Ryan Seacrest, Benicio del Toro, Tea Leoni, Scarlett Johansson, Christian Slater, Ashley Judd, Sarah Ferguson, Russell Simmons, P. Diddy, Kobe Bryant, Danny Glover, David Spade, Susan Sarandon, Nicole Richie, Benji Madden, Joel Madden, Jeff Probst, Molly Sims, Peter Wentz, will.i.am and many more took the chance to appear on the show.

Each star took the time to speak about the disaster and appeal for donations.

“When these terrible disasters happen in a very poor place, the result is magnified. …This is a huge, massive disaster for one of the poorest countries,” said Rolling Stone Mick Jagger. “It’s very gratifying to see such an outpouring of help from many countries.”

“What’s the difference between this crisis and maybe the tsunami?” asked Tea Leoni who appeared for UNICEF. "After the tsunami we were able to prevent the death of any child in the second wave of the disaster… We’re looking at a much more desperate situation, here.  

“The children of Haiti before this crisis were already in sort of a dire situation and kids who are malnourished are much more susceptible to suffer from disease, they’re more apt to contract cholera, dysentery.”

“Those people that are out there that can help, help; it’s important for humanity, for love, life… You have to help for America because we don’t have help,” added Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am.

“I’ve been watching at home with my family and have been incredibly moved and saddened by everything that has happened,” said Jennifer Lopez. “It’s daunting. It just feels so huge, and you just want to do anything you can and I urge everybody to do the same. … Every little bit helps.”

A visibly shaken Molly Sims – who visited the country last year – fought back tears to add: "Words can’t even describe what I saw and I consider myself a very well-travelled person. It was absolute devastation.

“They had no safe drinking water then, imagine now.”

Paula Abdul added: “The overwhelming despair and families not knowing who’s alive, not being able to account for [people], it’s just [sad]. It’s the most helpless feeling. There’s so much that you wish you could do. … It’s so overwhelming.”

Larry King revealed that over 150,000 have died in the quake, and many more are homeless and face terrible conditions.

Celebrities’ Quick Response To Haiti Disaster

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Elizabeth Willoughby

Here’s what some celebrities are up to, in response to the earthquake disaster that has destroyed Port-au-Prince and devastated Haiti:

Don Cheadle, George Clooney, Matt Damon and Brad Pitt: "The people of Haiti are in desperate need of help. Our organization, Not On Our Watch, will do whatever it can and we know the international community will as well." Not On Our Watch has donated $1 million in emergency response funds to provide medical services to victims of the disaster.

Wyclef Jean: "Yéle Haiti Foundation has pulled together a group of like minded organizations and first responders in order to help coordinate the delivery of emergency services and materials needed by victims of the earthquake in Haiti. Each of the organizations will undertake their own fundraising and on-the-ground operations, but have agreed to share resources, collaborate when it makes sense and avoid duplication." Four airlifts of medical and emergency supplies and food have already gone out. ONEXONE, one of the like minded organizations, has also already shipped medical supplies, water and blankets for on-the-ground support.

Associated Press reports that George Clooney will also host a multi-network telethon on Friday from Los Angeles, while Wyclef Jean will co-host from New York, to raise money for Jean’s Yele Haiti Foundation, UNICEF, Oxfam, Partners in Health and the Red Cross relief efforts. Anderson Cooper will host segments live from Haiti.

Lenny Kravitz: “Visit SaveHaitiSaturday.com and let’s support Project MediShare’s doctors. They’re out there saving lives in Haiti. I know these people personally. They’ve been working in Haiti for over 20 years. They go there on a regular basis. And they’re all down there on the ground right now, trying to save lives. Time is of the essence.”

Alyssa Milano, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, wrote to the Huffington Post, “I cried, and then I did the only thing I could do…I wrote a check to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF for $50,000.” Now she has issued a challenge on Twitter for corporations to match her donation.

Ben Stiller: “Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the world, which will make their recovery from this disaster extremely difficult.” His Stillerstrong charity has been working with Save the Children to build a school in Haiti, but to address the disaster will redirect all donations to UN agencies in order to provide emergency relief as quickly as possible.

Lance Armstrong, Sandra Bullock, Eddie Izzard, Angelina Jolie and Madonna have also made generous donations to various charities playing major roles in the emergency efforts.

A Weekend Of Celebrity Giving To Haiti

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 05:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Actress Sandra Bullock is the latest star to give big to Haitian earthquake relief over a weekend defined by donations of time and money.

The star has matched last week’s donation of $1 million from Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

“I wanted to ensure that my donation would be used immediately to meet the needs of the Haitian people affected by this catastrophic event,” she said. Her donation went to Doctors Without Borders.

She has been joined over the weekend by Madonna, who gave $250,000 to Partners in Health.

“My prayers are with the people of Haiti,” she said. “I can’t imagine the terrible pain and suffering they are experiencing. Sadly the depths of the tragedy are just becoming known and the need for our support grows more urgent with every passing moment. I have given a donation of $250,000 to assist Haiti’s earthquake victims through Partners in Health, one of Haiti’s leading healthcare providers. I urge all of my friends and fans around the world to join me collectively to match my contribution or give in any way you can. We must act now.”

Supermodel Gisele Bundchen also dipped into deep pockets for the cause, handing over $1.5 million to the Red Cross.

“I am heartbroken by the catastrophic events of the past six days in Haiti. It is important in times like these that we come together and find ways to help in any way we can,” she said.

Meanwhile, Wyclef Jean and Anderson Cooper will co-host George Clooney's MTV telethon this Friday – Clooney will be in LA, Jean in New York, and Cooper will be live in Haiti. Donations will go to Oxfam America, Partners in Health, Red Cross, UNICEF and Wyclef’s Yéle Haiti Foundation.

“I’m going to be doing the thing that George [Clooney] is organizing; the telethon,” said British actress Emily Blunt. “But I think, really, it’s just about everyone — everyone — needs to jump in. Everyone needs to get involved in whatever way they can. So, I think I’m just going to research the best way to help.”

Joe Jonas from the Jonas Brothers is taking his giving one step further – he plans to visit the country and help out.

“[I can get there] either this Tuesday or, like, two or three weeks from now,” he said. “I can’t promise I’m going to go, but I’m going to try,” he insisted. “I really want to be able to support in any way I can; I was going to go to Haiti before, to do similar work there. But now it’s obviously a completely different thing and my heart goes out to those people there and the families and everything. I just pray that everybody’s all right, and I’m going to try and do my best by getting there. And I would definitely say, if anyone can give money or support, it’s the perfect way to do it.”

John Travolta has also dug deep to help the relief efforts: “I have arranged for a plane to take down some volunteer ministers and some supplies and some medics. I hope that inspires others as well. It’s needed.”

Actress Kerry Washington has put her efforts into helping struggling mothers in Haiti through V-Day: “We have a safe house in Haiti for women who are survivors of domestic violence. Our president just asked [George] Bush and [Bill] Clinton to come together for a fund.”

Sports stars are also lining up to lend a hand – tennis star Roger Federer has organized a massive tennis event featuring stars such as Rafael Nadal, Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, Serena Williams and Samantha Stosur to take place at the Australian Open.

“The entry fee is a minimum donation of $10,” he said. "This should be fun and it’s for a great cause.

“I think it’s something as a tennis family we’re very happy to do. I know it’s on the eve of the first Grand Slam of the season, so for some it’s not so easy maybe mentally to separate a few things — but I think it’s a great initiative.

“The devastating earthquake which hit Haiti on Tuesday measured 7.0 on the Richter Scale and has left tens of thousands of people dead. The United Nations has launched an appeal for hundreds of millions of dollars to try to help around three million people in need.”

90210 star AnnaLynne McCord was volunteering in Haiti in December, and has opened a Twitter page to appeal to fans to give.

“Okay everybody!” she wrote. "Time to get busy! Haiti needs our help, desperately! I was there 3 weeks ago volunteering with Artists for Peace and Justice. Please donate to them!"

Lady Gaga has also made use of Twitter to encourage fans to give to the cause – she announced that she will use her January 24 concert as a fundraiser.

“Jan 24th is GAGA FOR HELPING HAITI day,” she wrote. “Go to www.ladygaga.com on the 24th + 100% of all merchandise purchased goes to earthquake relief. Monies will be donated immediately, spread the word around the world so we can raise as much money as possible.  ”Little monsters attending the Monsterball on the 24th: all ticket + and merch/cd profit will be donated. Save your money. Help save a life."

The concert is at the Radio City Music Hall in New York.

LookToTheStars.org will keep you updated with all celebrity charity news relating to the Haitian earthquake as it comes to hand.

Alyssa Milano Launches Twitter Charity Challenge For Haiti

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Alyssa Milano has donated $50,000 to UNICEF to aid in the relief of Haiti earthquake victims, and she is challenging corporations to match or better it.

“Last night, as I sat in the comfort of my living room, watching the news and obsessively checking my Twitter homepage for the latest developments, I felt completely helpless,” she wrote in the Huffington Post. "I cried, and then I did the only thing I could do…I wrote a check to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF for $50,000. But I woke up this morning feeling that this wasn’t enough. As I sat in my bed trying to brainstorm how to raise more money…

“I challenge any corporation to match my $50,000 donation to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. 100% of every dollar will go directly to supplies that include tarpaulins, water-purification tablets, oral rehydration salts, family water kits, medical supplies, medical kits, food, shelter, and protection.”

You can follow Milano’s Tweets here.

George Clooney Presents Jerry Weintraub Humanitarian Award

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:30:00 -0000

On December 10, the UNICEF Ball brought together Hollywood’s biggest stars for a fundraising gala to honor those individuals who have made key contributions to UNICEF’s mission to save and improve children’s lives worldwide. The evening raised more money for the organization than any UNICEF Ball to date.

Producer and long-time philanthropist Jerry Weintraub was honored as Man of the Year with UNICEF’s Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award. The special black-tie evening took place at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, in Beverly Hills, CA.

“We are honored to present Jerry as an exceptional individual who has demonstrated visionary and transformative leadership on behalf of children worldwide with the Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award.” said Caryl Stern, President and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “His philanthropic commitment to UNICEF’s mission to reach a day when zero children die from preventable causes, is truly inspirational.”

The UNICEF Ball was co-chaired by Bryan Lourd, Ghada Irani and Tamar & Bob Manoukian. The evening included performances by Paul Anka, Tony Bennett, Jane Morgan-Weintraub and Franki Valli & The Four Seasons. Paul Anka added his own special touch to the night by changing the lyrics to his popular song “My Way” to reflect the guest of honor. George Clooney, Bruce Willis and Bryan Lourd were among those who spoke about Jerry Weintraub as a friend and colleague. Guests were also treated to special surprise appearance by Mr. Weintraub’s long-time friend Muhammad Ali.

During dinner, George Clooney presented the Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award to Jerry Weintraub, Special Advisor to UNICEF USA. Weintraub’s more than 40 year career in entertainment has spanned all genres of music, film, Broadway Theatre, concerts and television. A celebrated producer and entertainment mogul, Weintraub has produced numerous blockbuster hits such as the Ocean’s 11 series and he has founded several successful production companies including Jerry Weintraub Productions. Committed to helping others in need, Weintraub’s philanthropic endeavors are just as great as his professional career. Most recently, Not On Our Watch, co-founded by Weintraub, has supported UNICEF’s at-risk Zimbabwean refugee children living on the South Africa-Zimbabwe border.

“Every day 24,000 children die from preventable causes. I believe that number should be zero,” said Jerry Weintraub, Producer and Recipient of UNICEF’s Danny Kaye Humanitarian Award. “UNICEF has saved more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world and I am committed to supporting their efforts to provide children worldwide the essentials for a safe and healthy childhood.”

In spirit of the evening, Jerry Weintraub, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Matt Damon and Don Cheadle donated $250,000 on behalf of Not on Our Watch in support of UNICEF’s mission to reduce the number of preventable deaths of children from 24,000 to zero.

Guests of the UNICEF Ball included Ellen Barkin, George Clooney, Cindy Crawford & Rande Gerber, Luciana & Matt Damon, Larry David, Selena Gomez, Elliot Gould, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt, Anthony Kiedes, Benji Madden, Joel Madden, Rebecca Mader, Alyssa Milano, Jeremy Piven, Sumner Redstone, Bruce Willis and more.

Dinner hosts included Shelli and Irving Azoff, Peggy and Jeff Bewkes, George Clooney, Carole Bayer Sager and Bob Daly, Luciana and Matt Damon, Brynne and Dan Fellman, David Geffen, Harvey S. Gettleson, Brad Grey, Cindy and Alan Horn, Lucy Liu, Michael Meldman, Wendy and Barry Meyer, Kelly and Ron Meyer, Lori and Michael Milken, Julie and Leslie Moonves, Robin and Gerald Parsky, Brad Pitt, Nicole and Jeff Robinov, Ande and Bruce Rosenblum, Steve Roth, Ellen and Richard Sandler, Jane and Terry Semel, Steven Spielberg, Emma and Bruce Willis, Ellen and Ken Ziffren and Jane Morgan Weintraub.

Alyssa Milano Donates Birthday To Charity

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Actress Alyssa Milano has written an article in the Huffington Post pledging her commitment to charity.

“As a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and the founding ambassador for the Global Network, I’ve traveled to the field and seen firsthand the devastation left behind by waterborne illnesses," wrote the actress. "On these trips, I’ve run the gamut of emotions that range from mind-bending anger to heart-warming hope. Upon my return from the field, I count my blessings, and then as time passes, I become frustrated with myself that I’m not doing more to alleviate the pain of those I met on my journey.

“It is because of this very frustration that I decided to give up my birthday. I have everything I could ever want or need. All I want is to provide life-giving water for 10 communities, 500 families and 2,500 people. This is my Birthday wish. In lieu of spending money on a party or presents, I’m asking people to donate to my charity:water campaign and help make my wish come true."

Milnao is aiming to raise $50,000 for the charity. Charity:Water was established by Scott Harrison, a Manhattan party promoter, in 2006. While on a freelance photography trip in Africa, Harrison was shocked to see victims of contaminated water suffering long and painful deaths. He set up the charity to stimulate greater global awareness about extreme poverty, educating the public, and provoking compassionate and intelligent giving.

“Currently, almost a billion people in the world don’t have access to life’s most basic need: clean and safe drinking water,” wrote Milano. "That’s 1 in 8 people on the planet. Over 200 million people right now have a water-related disease called schistosomiasis… It’s a fancy word for parasites. Worms. When you see a heartbreaking photo of a malnourished child with an extended belly, that child most likely has this waterborne schistosomiasis and no matter what food or nutrients you give them, without proper medication and clean water they most likely will not survive.

“I believe it is innately within us, as warriors of the human spirit, to give to those less fortunate. Sometimes, we just don’t know how to go about doing it. If this rings true for you, I encourage you to watch the below video, be inspired, and join me by starting your own holiday campaign today at http://www.charitywater.org/holidays.”

To donate to Alyssa’s campaign, click here. Her full article can be read in the Huffington Post here.

Angélique Kidjo Welcomes Young Climate Ambassadors To Copenhagen

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Angélique Kidjo performed at a UNICEF event in Copenhagen yesterday to launch the United Nations Climate Summit.

The singer was joined by singer Anggun at the event, which saw eight UNICEF Climate Ambassadors – aged 14 to 17 – generate a dialogue on how music bridges the divides of culture and age in the fight against climate change.

“Music is a universal language, and the environment is a universal place for every human being,” said Kidjo. "I’ve travelled around the world with my music and I’ve seen the power of music bringing everybody together despite language, color – despite the culture where we come from.

“You go around and you look in your country at things that have changed and … disappeared because of climate change. We are going to touch people by showing them this. By example, we are going to change their minds.”

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