Photos: Demarcus Davis/DC Spotlight Newspaper
April 18, 2012
By Wendy Thompson
Editor-in-Chief
In Case You Missed It
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday night, arguably, some the metro area’s most talented karaoke performers came out to support ChildHelp and raise money for the abused children the organization benefits. Rebecca Cooper from WJLA and Wes Johnson, the voice of the Washington Capitals, were emcees for the event. ChildHelp founders Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson were both on hand to celebrate the night and thank donors.
Washington media giants such as CNN and FOX News sent some of their top anchors and reporters to participate in the battle of the voices for the charity. Special guest and “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks was the designated cheerleader, spurring the singers and attendants to dig deep into their pockets to support the organization. Sparks donated $2000 of her own money, which was also matched by a donor during the event.
She stated that after visiting the children in the program, she was moved to become a public supporter of ChildHelp.
“I went to one of their villages…and I really got a chance to see what they’re doing and how they’re really touching the lives of children up to teenagers,” said Sparks. “Kids who thought they had no escape. [Now] they finally have this sanctuary that they can go to and get better and have therapy and go to school and learn that they’re people that love them and want to see them succeed and be happy.”
Brianna Kahane, the 10-year-old child prodigy violinist, kicked off the show with a creative rendition of “Over the Rainbow” to the delight of the crowd. Washington Wizards and Capitals owner Ted Leonsis, who had promised in the event promos to sing, did not attend in person, however, he did send along apologies and a video from an “undisclosed location.” Leonsis’ Capitals are currently in the middle of hockey playoffs this week.
Some of the karaoke contestants included Dana Bash and Gloria Borger from CNN, Melanie Alnwick, Rich Edson and Jennifer Griffin from FOX, Kendis Gibson and Natasha Barrett from WJLA, Chilli Amar and Brooke Ryan from MIX 107.3 and Tommy McFly and Jen Richer from 94.7.
The stellar performances of high, low and occasional off-tone singing provided the fun and excitement need to get donors motivated to get out of their seats, dance, sing and give to a worthy cause. As the night ended, Capital CAREaoke had raised $310,000 for ChildHelp.
Support ChildHelp:
ChildHelp is a nonprofit organization that provides help to victims of child abuse and neglect. The organization focuses on prevention, intervention and treatment. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, 1-800-4-A-CHILD, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To donate, visit http://www.childhelp.org/pages/donate.
ChildHelp
Attention: Donor Services
15757 N 78th Street, Suite B
Scottsdale, Arizona 85260
Telephone: 480-922-8212
Email: info@childhelp.org
