Upcoming Event: Haiti Fundraiser

I got a coverage request that I figured I'd put up here, even though it's not anything I think most readers here are into. But it's for Haiti, so just in case you're interested...

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(New York, NY - January 20, 2010) - On Wednesday, January 20, 2010, a diverse group of New York City’s young professionals of color will raise funds and supplies for Haiti. The HEARTS 4 HAITI coalition is comprised of professionals in the music, media and entertainment communities who want to provide immediate support to Haitians who have been affected by the massive earthquake that took place on January 12th. Hinging on the one-year anniversary of President Barack Obama’s inauguration and his challenge to American’s to “give back”, this event will raise funds and supplies for earthquake victims,, and will also celebrate the cultural contributions of Haiti through its music and art.

HEARTS 4 HAITI has partnered with two organizations: Doctors Without Borders and YELE Haiti. All monetary proceeds generated from the event will be donated to Doctors Without Borders with a designation to the Haiti Earthquake Relief Effort. All food, clothing and supply donations will be given to YELE Haiti.

HEARTS 4 HAITI will feature special performances showcasing the history and spirit of Haiti's culture. On the main level, renowned DJ's including DJ D-Nice, DJ Clue, and several others will incorporate the sounds of Haiti into their mainstream music sets. Downstairs in "The Carnivale Lounge" DJ Franky of the Untouchables will provide an exclusive musicquarium which includes the best of Haitian Konpa & Zouk.

“HEARTS 4 HAITI is for NYC professionals who understand the importance of giving back to the world community,” says Gardy V. Guerrier, one of the event HEART 4 HAITI organizers. “By attending this event they will become the truest embodiment of the motto inscribed on the Haitian flag: strength through unity.”

Guests will enjoy a complimentary open bar from 7:00pm until 8:30pm provided by Hennessy. “Our hearts and prayers go out to those impacted by this terrible tragedy,” says Noel Hankin, Hennessey’s Sr. VP of Multicultural Relations. “Hennessy is eager to do all we can to support the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and we have instituted a corporate double matching program for employee donations.”


WHAT: HEARTS 4 HAITI - Invites You To Make a Difference

WHEN: Wednesday, January 20, 2010, 7:00pm - Midnight

Open bar 7pm-8:30pm compliments Hennessy

WHERE: ARENA
135 W. 41st Street between (Broadway/6th Ave)

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But you could also save yourself the trouble and donate directly. As most people now know, Haitan musician Wyclef Jean is raising money through his organization Yele to help in the relief effort. However, there is some evidence that that organization has been guilty of misusing funds in the past, so do your own research before you give.

For a list of organizations helping that are taking donations to provide relief in Haiti, click here.

There are also some more rock-oriented benefits coming up. I've listed several here.