Clay Aiken was introduced to the national stage in 2003, but long before that time, he was an active advocate for the rights of children.
It is always wonderful to see the amazing pictures of Clay with children throughout the world. His trips with UNICEF opened the eyes of the world to his advocacy for children. But it is just as exciting to learn about his work with children before the eyes of the world were watching.
So…Please check out the following! All of these pictures were taken before American Idol, Season II.
Clay was a counselor at Y-Camp for many years.
The following are quotes from Clay’s book, Learning To Sing..Hearing The Music in Your Life
“I’m often asked what I would do to change the world if I had the power to do anything.
In my ideal world, no child would suffer. Charitable instincts would prevail. Those who could give, would give. There would be global acceptance of all different types of people. “
Another quote:
“There are so many kids in this world who could use another person looking out for them. Someone who will help them to discover their strengths and rise above their weaknesses. Someone who offers another opinion of their worth.
Why not me?”
On a side note…CANN appreciates all the comments that our readers leave. It is wonderful to get feedback from our readers. This is a Clay Aiken board. The comments are moderated and we have never and will never approve comments bashing Clay, his fans or this site.
These photos show just how much of a truly loving heart beats in that wonderful chest of his!! The
quotes are also telling of the kind, caring, and loving, person he always was and certainly is now.
It is a pleasure to leave nice comments, as you provide such great articles and wonderful Clay – Things !! – – – Always! They are so appreciated.
I love that Clay has been helping kids since before American Idol. It shows that it’s truly who he is rather than just publicity. He’s a good man.
Wonderful photos, more photos for my pictures library, nice to see photos before AI of Clay, he's such a caring person. Thanks Musicfan and CANN
I always appreciate all the information, pictures, and videos that CANN puts forward about Clay Aiken. Unfortunately today I cannot see the pictures posted, is there something wrong with PB or is it my computer?
clayam…I am so sorry that you can't see the pictures. It seems that those posting can see the pictures. Perhaps if you re-boot your computer…
Let me know if you are still having troubles!
What a lovely entry!!!
I hadn't seen these pictures in quite a while.
I remember telling someone about that last picture of Clay dancing on his knees, looking up at that woman as if she were the only one on earth. If anyone can look at that picture and not love the man, then something is wrong with that person's heart!!
Right on! You rock Misicfan! I am addicted to the positivity of this site AND the educational and historical aspects. Today's post is just one of many many reasons why we know Clay is the REAL deal and NOT just a publicity stunt. If I can borrow and play with a phrase from Michelle O: With Clay Aiken we have seen firsthand that being a celebrity doesn't have to change who you are, it can reveal who you are. Clay walks his talk! Hopefully he will be in a position to do so for many years to come.
Thanks for sharing these great shots of Clay before he becamse famous. Love how he has always been a supportive of children and continues to be. Doesn't get any better than Clay Aiken!
Besides that wonderful voice, the next thing that struck me about Clay was his charitable work. When I had learned he worked at the Y, and was a Special Ed Teacher, helping an Autistic child…my heart just enveloped him. Clay is truly a remarkable young man. He has proven that to us for almost 10 years now. Thanks for the pics again Musicfan. I've always loved them.
musicfan — One of the many things that drew me to this site was the positivity of your blogs, along with the loving and sincere comments of it's readers. I smiled when i saw Clay's signature stance with his feet pointed outward, but the joy on his face, with him doing what he really loves to do, is what is especially heartwarming. It speaks volumes about his true character and truly endures him to me. Clay Aiken is a very good man!
the pictures are so beautiful!Thank you for sharing so much. He is such an inspirational person.I feel so blessed that I will be able to see him perform in December.
Thanks for all the nice pictures. Just shows that has always been where his heart is. When you see him with children and doing his charitable events, you can tell that is where he is the happiest. Love that man.