Shakira
By Irish Echo Staff
Shakira, Usain Bolt, and by way of reminding you that there's an Irish heart in this, Bono and President Michael D Higgins.
All are among the lineup for the "Concern Global Gala: United to Fight Hunger," which is taking place tonight, Friday, with participants suitably sprinkled around the globe helping an organization that aids the poorest of the poor around the globe.
The gala will feature musical performances, celebrity appearances, and exclusive interactive visits with Concern staff carrying out life-saving work in the field in places like Ethiopia, India, and Kenya - all from the comfort of home, said a release.
Celebrity participants, stated the release, include Grammy-winning artist and activist Bono, Grammy-winning artist Shakira, actor Liam Neeson, Actress Toni Collette, Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt, President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, Broadway star Brian D'Arcy James, singer July Collins, vocalist LOAH Loah, hotographer Alexi Lubomirski, Influencer and Irish dancer Morgan Bullock, Irish boxer John Duddy, Wexford hurler Lee Chin and Irish influencer Louise Cooney.
"The pandemic has turned gala season on its head this year, but global humanitarian organization Concern Worldwide U.S. is embracing the change, and trying something different this year by combining its four major annual fundraising events into one dynamic, virtual global event," the release added.
And it continued: "Concern Worldwide was founded in Ireland in 1968, and over the course of over half a century, Concern has grown from a localized grassroots movement into a highly respected global organization, now implementing programs in 23 countries reaching 24.2 million people.
"Concern maintains deep roots from their earliest days in effective emergency response, while also working to achieve lasting change through long-term development programs. Now, this progress is in danger of being reversed because of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Concern Global Gala: Unite to Fight Hunger will raise critical funds that ensure Concern’s life-saving work can continue to reach the millions of people served each year."
Broadway’s Brian D’Arcy James will act as emcee, with opening remarks by the President Michael D. Higgins. The event will also feature honoree Alison Taylor, Chief Sustainability Officer of Archer Daniels Midland.
For 2020, Concern is combining its four major annual fundraising events into one dynamic, virtual global event. The silent auction includes items such as relaxing Mexican vacation, signed sports memorabilia from the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins, a Napa wine tasting event and a virtual meet and greet experience with professional golfer Tom Watson.
More information and register here.
