Youk Could be the Next “Idol”!
- Details
- Published on Wednesday, 18 January 2012 11:45
- Written by Matt Robinson
Sox star and other stars come together to help kids in need
While it may not be possible for most players guarantee a home run on command, some players go out of their way to help kids.
The Red Sox’ Kevin Youkilis is one such player and on January 26, his Youk’s Kids Foundation will host the second annual Not Your Average Idol benefit at the State Room in Boston (www.youkskids. org). The event, which is being sponsored by New Balance, will feature a silent and live auction, drinks from Harpoon Brewery, food from a number of Boston’s top restaurants, including Bina Osteria, Blue Ginger, Bokx 109, Davio’s, Eastern Standard, The Fireplace, Sweet, Upstairs on the Square and Not Your Average Joe’s, and performances by platinum-selling pop artist Gavin DeGraw and some of Boston’s most talented performers, including comedian Tony V and American Idol contestant Ayla Brown (whose father, Senator Scott Brown, is an honorary chairman for the event). There are even rumors that new Sox skipper Bobby Valentine may drop in!
Youk’s Kids was created by the Sox star to support and advocate for the health and well-being of children in need. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $2.5 million and touched the lives of more than 1,000 children in Boston and beyond. “As a professional athlete, I have the opportunity to give back and make a difference for kids who are facing significant challenges in life,” Youkilis explains.
“That’s what Youk’s Kids is all about.” Unlike other athlete-affiliated organizations in which the athlete just lends their name, Youkilis is deeply involved with Youk’s Kids. And takes a real interest in the kids his eponymous foundation serves. “Kevin is an integral part of the organization and the event,” says Co-VP and Board Chair Tina Cantu. “As a music lover and philanthropic figure in Boston, he knew the best way to engage a dedicated group of supporters was through a fun event with live musical and comedic performances, food from Boston’s best restaurants, and dynamic auction items.”
As he was fortunate enough to be raised by a supportive family, Youkilis knows the importance a proper upbringing can have and what it could men to go without such privileges. “I was fortunate to grow up with a loving family that supported me in all my endeavors,” Youkilis recalls, citing such vital lessons as the importance of hard work and the rewards the come of giving back.
“As an athlete, I have experienced the camaraderie, confidence and pride that comes from being part of a team. These values and experiences are the foundation of Youk’s Kids” T h o u g h the “Idol” event has quickly become the foundation’s biggest annual fundraiser, Youkilis also hosts other popular events each year, including an intimate tour and tasting at the Harpoon Brewery and an annual anniversary party at Davio’s.
Youkilis also invites the children the foundation helps to a special batting clinic and a meet and greet at Fenway Park. For this year’s “Idol” event, Youkilis was able to get DeGraw to be the featured talent in a night full of talent.
“Kevin...generated a short list of entertainers [he] thought would be an exciting fit for the event,” Cantu recalls, “and with the help of Kevin’s friends in the music business we were able to reach out to Gavin and his team and make it happen!”
So come to the State Room on January 26 and help “make t happen” for kids in need.
“It’s going to be a great night,” says ‘Youk’.
