The following information is from the UNICEF Website:
Clay Aiken was appointed a UNICEF Ambassador in 2004 and traveled with UNICEF to Afghanistan, Indonesia, Uganda, Mexico, Kenya, and Somalia, a country where conflict and hunger have created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. As a dedicated UNICEF Ambassador, Clay continually encouraged friends, family, and fans to donate to the U.S. Fund and support UNICEF through speeches, social networks, and blogs…
A former teacher, Clay has participated in several initiatives surrounding UNICEF’s education programs, and in turn he has uniquely targeted children in the U.S. to educate them about UNICEF’s lifesaving work. In July 2010, Clay was theKey Note Speaker at the 67th annual Kiwanis Key Club International Convention, where he thanked students for supporting UNICEF throughout the years. Additionally, Clay was the 2005 National Spokesperson for Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF and, in the weeks following the campaign, he toured several U.S. schools to thank students for their fundraising initiatives
“Everyone deserves the best start in life, which is what UNICEF is working to provide the world’s most vulnerable children,” Clay said. “Education is essential to a child’s development. I hope that as an Ambassador I can encourage people to join UNICEF’s mission, to make education a reality for children throughout the world.”
…Celebrities have been a vital and unique part of UNICEF’s history since 1953, when celebrated actor Danny Kaye became UNICEF’s first Goodwill Ambassador. Since then, celebrities including Audrey Hepburn, Téa Leoni, Sarah Jessica Parker, Laurence Fishburne, Alyssa Milano, and Selena Gomez have joined UNICEF to fight for the survival and development of children worldwide.
UNICEF Ambassadors are leaders in the entertainment industry, representing the fields of film, television, music, sports and beyond. They demonstrate leadership in their professions and serve as positive role models through their work. Over the years, UNICEF Ambassadors have played a critical role in raising awareness of the needs for children, and have continued to use their talent and fame to fundraise, advocate, and educate on behalf of UNICEF.
Together, UNICEF Ambassadors have proven that being a public figure can be a powerful tool in mobilizing the support necessary to improve the lives of children and ensure their basic human rights.
At the first of 2014, Clay’s name was removed from the list of active Ambassadors to Alumni. As you can see in the information above, Ambassadors are leaders on the entertainment industry. Since Clay is now pursuing a run for Congress, he no longer fits the criteria for Ambassador. I feel confident that Clay still will always support the ideals of UNICEF.
The following is a great video that highlights the many trips that Clay took for UNICEF.
The background music is Clay singing It’s In Every One of Us.
Which UNICEF Trip is the most memorable to you?
I could never select a favorite UNICEF trip as each had its heartache and its hope. I will always commend Clay for his part in helping to make known the plight of children around the globe even though some of the places he visited were not the safest. I recall his encouraging his fans to donate to UNICEF, and I believe many of us still contribute to this very day.
Listening to Clay sing “It’s In Every One Of Us” is a definite highlight. He has pure empathy and true grit and will use every means he can for the betterment of others. Thanks, Musicfan, for reminding us of this magnificent song!
Clay has not deviated from his principles and goals over the past decade of our knowing him as a highly successful entertainer. Even though his path may now lead to Congress, he is not about to change his ways – ways that will assuredly impact Senators and Republicans to exchange their childishness for legislation that will restore our people, our nation, and our standing in the world community.
Heck, I'm just proud of everything the man does! Loving all this positive buzz about him. I know we all are!
Amen to that!!!!
Well said Gaymarie, Clay is truly a good man and as you said we're all soooo proud of him.
I think each Unicef trip that Clay did was memorable. They brought attention to their specific causes at the time. You can see how kids gravitate to him. People in general do the same. When Clay enters a room, there is just something so special about him. He's just one of those people that is charismic. The thing is with Clay, he has always been drawn to helping people, long before he became famous, so it's just natural with him. I'm always proud of him.
Thanks for the video again Musicfan. Loved the pictures and I love the song.
AMEN TO THAT!!!!
AMEN TO THAT
Clay You are the best. Now everyone will be able to see what all of us have always seen.A very passionate, loving caring intelligent human being. You go Clay and GOD Bless You.. hugs to you.