World Children’s Day was first established  in 1954 by UNICEF  and is celebrated on November 20th each year.  It promotes international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare.

In 2002, MacDonalds Restaurants joined with UNICEF. This global fundraiser for children was celebrated across 32,000 McDonald’s restaurants in more than 121 countries. Funds raised benefit local causes in communities around the world.

On November 9, 2004, the month-long program to build awareness for the fundraiser was kicked off at a McDonald’s restaurant in Los Angeles. To launch the activities, Clay Aiken joined Alejandro Fernandez, Hilary and Haylie Duff, Venus and Serena Williams, Carl Lewis and Randy Jackson as they created and donated autographed handprints.

There was no entertainment at the restaurant that day so Clay did not sing. In 2004, Clay was an ambassador for Ronald McDonald House Charities and so he was the featured speaker at the event.

All the cement handprints were auctioned on eBay. Clay’s cast sold for over $15,000. Another item donated by Clay, an autographed apron from the same event, went for $5,100 in the eBay auction.

It is always amazing to see how much money Clay Aiken is able to raise for so many good causes. He is a compassionate man who is articulate and handsome. Seems like this is the recipe for a great spokesperson representing any good cause.

A fan was able to video Clay’s moving speech at the event in Los Angeles. It is always interesting to hear Clay speak.

Do you remember this event?