As the presenting sponsor of the 9th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) An Enduring Vision gala, American Airlines once again has demonstrated its dedication to helping people living with HIV and AIDS.
The annual benefit was held this month in New York City at Cipriani Wall Street and drew celebrities and other supporters for a night of entertainment and fundraising for Elton John's foundation.
Celebrity guests included the legendary Tony Bennett, Deborah Harry of Blondie fame, Cheyenne Jackson, Christina Ricci and Hugh Jackman, to name a few. After the awards ceremony, guests enjoyed a private concert from Sir Elton John himself and a surprise performance from Leon Russell.
This year, the NGLCC was proud to be part of the event that raised more than $1 million for HIV- and AIDS-related research and causes.
"We're grateful that this event takes place every year for such an important cause, but it was amazing to get to attend and share in the experience thanks to American Airlines," said Justin Nelson, president and co-founder of the NGLCC.
American Airlines is the official airline of EJAF, and is a founding corporate partner of the NGLCC.
EJAF supports many AIDS-related initiatives of other organizations, including the U.S. Fund for UNICEF's work addressing vertical transmission of AIDS in Guatemala, and American Airlines matches EJAF's grants to UNICEF, doubling the funding going to this initiative.
EJAF has raised more than $220 million since its inception, and continues to be a leader in money raised and given to worthwhile causes.
"At least 95 cents of every dollar goes to the field, and we have a four-star Charity Navigator rating," said David Furnish, Elton John's partner and EJAF board member.
"This was an incredible evening for an incredible organization," said Chance Mitchell, co-founder and CEO of the NGLCC. "We applaud the Elton John AIDS Foundation for all its hard work and American Airlines for being a leader in its support."
For more information about EJAF and American Airlines, click here.
