T.J. Martell Foundation Celebrates Family Day L.A.!
Young Talent Turns Out To Support The T.J. Martell Foundation's "Family Day L.A.!"
by Derek J. Samms
This Sunday, actors and musicians alike gathered at CBS Studios to support cancer research at the T.J. Martell Foundation's Family Day L.A. The celebrities in attendance had quite a lot to share about their passion for charitable causes. They told us a little about their Halloween plans too, as well as advice for other kids who want to support charities. "It just makes you feel really good inside because you're helping other people that don't have what you have," says actress Amber Barbell.
For some, like Sayeed and Yara Shahidi, stars of the show "First Family," this charity really hits home. "I have family members who are battling cancer," says Yara. "One of my cousins died of cancer at a very young age, so it's something that I always support."
Actors Dylan Riley Snyder and Zachary Alexander Rice have also seen family members affected. "My grandmother-a couple years ago-died of breast cancer," Rice shares. "I think it's really important and an awesome cause."
Tweet Break! October 28:Pls RT - TODAY is #FamilyDayLA hosted by @StarringRico with @CodySimpson & more! Donate to a cure: TJ Martell Donation Page || Follow TJ Martel Foundation on Twitter
Whether they knew someone personally affected or not, all the attendees agreed that this was a cause worth supporting. With carnival activities and live performances by The Farm, IM5 and Cody Simpson, the event was as fun as it was rewarding. As Zach Callison, one of the voice talents in the upcoming Disney Channel television movie "Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess," pointed out, "It's a really great event for a good cause, always a lot of fun."
The event was also the perfect place to present the 2012 Humanitarian Awards to Robert Earl (Chairman and CEO of Planet Hollywood International) and "Glee" music supervisor, PJ Bloom. This prestigious award is given by the T.J. Martell Foundation to recognize "the valuable efforts of entertainment industry professionals who have made a difference through their philanthropic endeavors and support of cancer research." Both Earl and Bloom were on hand to accept their awards and to continue to show support for the worthy cause.
Besides supporting a deserving charity, the attendees were excited about their Halloween plans, which ranged from relaxing at home to all-night video game parties. The costume ideas were just as diverse. Ian Patrick, who plays brainy alien, "Dick Butkus," on ABC's "The Neighbors," will be sporting zombie garb complete with a ripped-open chest ("You can actually see bones and everything on it"); the Shahidi siblings plan to dress as LeBron James and a pageant girl; and "Modern Family's" Rico Rodriguez, who hosted the event, hopes to arrive on set on the 31st looking like Charlie Chaplin.
A few people mentioned simpler plans. Evan Hofer of Disney XD's "Kickin' It" said he would probably just wear a cape a friend made him with his initial and become "Super Evan," while a few, like Ryan Ochoa, planned to put a costume together at the last minute. Skai Jackson got especially creative: "I just made up my costume, so it's kind of original. I put a whole bunch of pieces together."
Tweet Break! October 28: Having a blast hosting the @tjmartell #FamilyDayLA today! Don't forget to donate to a cure: a cure: TJ Martell Donation Page || Follow Rico Rodriguez on Twitter
But even with Halloween quickly approaching, the focus was on the T.J. Martell Foundation. Proceeds from Family Day will help fund research and treatment of illnesses like cancer, leukemia, and AIDS. The young celebrities had a few tips for what other kids can do as well.
Actress Katherine McNamara (Girl vs. Monster) recommends that young people "find a charity, or make your own foundation or group at your school. It only takes a small number of people to really make a difference in the world, so don't be afraid to try."
Erika Tascon, who is no stranger to charity work, says, "Now with modern technology you can pretty much find anything." She mentions that everybody can do something and suggests that kids search online or inquire about community programs at their schools or churches: "Ask in the front office. They'll always have stuff."
Tweet Break! October 28: fans, family and friends are here with me though it all. so grateful || Follow Cody Simpson on Twitter
"Just because we're 'celebrities' doesn't mean you can't do what we do," says Rodriguez, who first heard about the T.J. Martell foundation through his sister Raini. "You can use your power, and you become the celebrity in this kind of field."
To find out more about the T.J. Martell Foundation and their upcoming events, visit:
http://www.tjmartellfoundation.org/