YouthAIDS and Ashley Judd Hosted the Second Annual Benefit Gala to Stop the Spread of HIV/AIDS among Youth with an October 27 Celebrity Dinner in New York

NEW YORK, NY Nov. 6, 2003 — Young adults, celebrities, politicians and corporate leaders came together on October 27 for the second annual YouthAIDS Benefit Gala. The dinner, held at New York City's Capitale, raised funds and awareness to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS among the world's youth. Those celebrating included host and actress Ashley Judd, emcee Blair Underwood, special honorees and presenters Miss Universe 2003 Amelia Vega and Congressman Patrick Kennedy. Special musical performances included Grammy Award-winner Wynonna Judd and Ruff Ryders Recording Artist Jin. In a special announcement, Hip-hop producer Timbaland revealed YouthAIDS' plan to create "The World is Ours" — a song set to be an AIDS anthem in the legacy of 1985 classic "We Are the World" — with an all-star cast of musicians.

Ashley Judd, the evening's host, is also the YouthAIDS Global Ambassador. By speaking about the HIV/AIDS issue in Hollywood and around the world, Ashley's efforts raise awareness and funding for the YouthAIDS initiative.

The YouthAIDS Gala highlighted individuals and corporations who have made a significant impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS. YouthAIDS presented Corporate Citizenship Awards to The Coca-Cola Company and Alexander B. Cummings, President of The Coca-Cola Company's African Foundation, and to Kiehl's Since 1851 and Edgar Huber, President, L'Oreal Luxury Products Division. Pioneer Achievement Awards were presented to The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and Kate Carr, President & CEO of the Foundation and to Independent Documentary Filmmaker Rory Kennedy.

Hugh Hildesley of Sotheby's auctioned off an Audemars Piquet watch, VIP tickets to Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, a Hello Kitty Beach Cruiser, a women's leather Tommy Hilfiger jacket signed by Mr. Hilfiger and more at the event.

• Archives

The Judd family was on hand for the second annual YouthAIDS Benefit Gala in New York City. Ashley (left) is the YouthAIDS Global Ambassador.