On Monday, December 3 the Children’s Aid Society in Harlem was visited by a very special guest. Grammy Award winning recording artist Ne-Yo was starting his whirlwind 7th Annual Giving Tour in partnership with The Boys and Girls Club of America with stops in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Atlanta.
During the evening, Ne-Yo, founder of the Compound Foundation, discussed with us the vital need for giving — whether of time, efforts or gifts this holiday season. Also on hand was Ne-Yo’s mom, Loraine Smith, serving as the president of the foundation.
“We are proud to have our sponsors: One Simple Wish, Carol’s Daughter, Creative Reaction, Together We Rise, Hasbro, Ubisoft and Vita Coco taking part in this charitable giving effort” said Ne-Yo. “The items we receive from these companies will lift the hearts and spirits of the children in foster care across this country. What greater reason to give, what greater reason to tour than to uplift those who need us most.”
The singer was in good spirits, sitting in a Santa-esque chair during the gift giving portion of the night and was joined by TV Personality and Recording Artist Andrienne Bailon. Other guests included ACS Commissioner Ronald E. Richter and 12-year-old musical prodigy, Jovanie Vital, who performed his new hit Heart Breaker along with holiday classics.
The Giving Tour focuses on the total holiday experience, while alleviating pressure on families to provide gifts. “The Compound Foundation is pleased to support foster care and underprivileged children whose families may have limited resources during the holiday season," said Khalilah Abdul-Baqi, Executive Director of the Compound Foundation. “The Giving Tour provides an opportunity for local communities to partake in the enormous needs of many local families and create a memorable holiday season in New York City for foster children who are often forgotten.”
Five hundred children ages 3-18 received apparel, toys, footwear, electronics, skincare, bicycles, gift certificates, cupcakes and assorted beverages. The Giving Tour program is private and not open to the public; toys and monetary contributions can be sent to the Compound Foundation at 5665 Atlanta Hwy, Suite 103-238, Alpharetta, GA 30004 payable to the Compound Foundation.
