Jordin Sparks and Others Give to Charity

May 22^nd saw a gathering of some of the most prominent names in sports and show business give to charity at the 26th anniversary of Sports Spectacular held at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza.  The event honors top athletes and also benefits the Medical Genetics Institute at Los Angeles’ Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.  The evening was hosted by Jim Hill, Samantha Harris and John Salley.

Stars Give to Charity Through Auction

In addition to celebrating the accomplishments of the honored athletes, the event also featured a silent auction.  The auction was designed to raise funds to combat genetic birth defects and raised more than $1.3 million.  The total raised thus far through the event has topped $21 million.

American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks started the evening off when she sang the National Anthem.  Approximately 1,800 sports stars, celebrities, business and community leaders, entertainers and charity organizations attended the evening to honor an elite list of sports figures.

Honorees and their presenters included Olympic Gold Medalist Lindsey Vonn, whose award was presented by Ron Artest; Los Angeles Clippers NBA Star Blake Griffin whose award was presented by Michael Strahan; U.S. soccer star Landon Donovan whose award was presented by Tim Leiweke; and Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers icon and NFL Defensive Player of the Year, whose award was presented by Joel Madden.

Also present at the charity event were many famous faces including Tia Carrere, Buzz Aldrin, Benji Madden, Alan Thicke and Summer Sanders.

Those who wish to give to charity can make a donation online.

Tags: charitable giving, give to charity, MicroGiving