Superstars and Sing for Hope

[chris macrae]

The leading collaboration model benchmarked in first 10 years of university of stars is Monica Yunus http://singforhope.org - help atlanta show billions of youth how 21st c singing in perfect harmony nds poverty and empowersyouth job creation

[chris macrae]

Musicians for Microcredit http://wholeplanetfoundation.org/cp/Musicians-for-Microcredit

Musicians for Microcredit™ is an initiative started by Whole Planet Foundation in 2011 as a way to engage the music community and its fans to raise awareness and funds. From digital album and track downloads to in-store performances and benefit concerts, we seek to partner with like-minded musicians and organizations to empower women around the world to change their own lives. 

For more information and to get involved, please contact WPF's Marketing and Outreach Specialist Lauren Evans at [e-mail]. We look forward to partnering with you to leverage awareness and impact to support poverty alleviation efforts around the globe!

Download for a Difference

In Whole Foods Market's Southern Pacific region, we recently piloted a music download program called Download for a Difference. Select Whole Foods Market stores sold cardboard digital download “CDs” featuring 15 tracks for $5, with $2.50 going to Whole Planet Foundation and $2.50 going to our partners Inspire and Four Winds Trading Company. Now, we have launched this program purely in digital format! Support Whole Planet Foundation and download 17 tracks from today's...

Volume 1 Artists
Bonnie Raitt, The Civil Wars, The Alabama Shakes, Ingrid Michaelson, Andrew Bird, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, Matt Costa, Josie Dunne, Josh Ritter, Tim Hanaeur, Phox, Tyrone Wells, Katie Herzig, Wye Oak, OK Sweetheart, Deer Tick, Ivan & Alyosha and Foreign Fields.

Check out a blog post from Volume 1 Artist and Whole Planet Foundat... 

2013 Showcase during SXSW

Check out photos from this great event and the video recap!

On Sunday, March 10, 2013, while Austin, TX rocked out at this year’s annual SXSW festival, Whole Planet Foundation®, Whole Foods Market® and presenting sponsors Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day, Odwalla and Teas’ Tea hosted a showcase of our own to help fight global poverty, right in the heart of the city. Artists, brands and foundation supporters gathered at Whole Foods Market’s flagship store at Lamar and 6th Street for an afternoon of live music to raise awareness and support for the foundation’s work. $2,346 was raised and will enable 13 families to have a chance for a better life through entrepreneurship.

The event featured performances by hometown favorites including the headliner Quiet Company, winner of 10 Austin Music Awards.  Other leading artists included national touring band Honor Society, Seryn, What Made Milwaukee Famous, Courrier, O Conqueror, Suite 709, The Preservation, Belmont Lights, Emily Reid, Frankie, Caroline Brooks and Jordan Bass & His Mixed Bag.

The event was also supported by Stage Sponsors Barefoot Wine, PreSonus/Nimbit, Thrillcall app and Gibson Pro Audio brand Cerwin Vega.  Foundation Partners include The Blessing Basket Project, BlueAvocado, The Miracle Foundation, Teysha, HINT Water, Greyston Bakery and Krochet Kids.  Other event supporters included Aldea Artisans, CTC International, Justin’s, PACT apparel, Reason, TC Electronic and Threads 4 Thought, Tracks photo app, Ultimate Ears and VOS flips.  The showcase was produced by Planet LA Music and Clamorhouse.

 

Whole Planet Foundation 2013 (unofficial) Pre-Grammy® Benefit

Check out the video!

On Wednesday, February 6, 2013, Whole Planet Foundation, Whole Foods Market® West Hollywood, presenting sponsor Sambazon and other valued partners honored Daryl Hannah, Jack Johnson, Jessica Alba and Jason Mraz for their commitment to promoting sustainable practices and changing global environments. The celebration took place at Whole Planet Foundation’s inaugural pre-GRAMMY® benefit at the historic East West Studios in Hollywood.

GRAMMY winners Ozomatli and leading artists including Meiko and Stephen Perkins of Jane’s Addiction performed at the benefit, which will also featured celebrity presenter Ed Begley, Jr., emcee Geno Mitchellini and more.Hosting a benefit event during such a high-profile music week was a great opportunity to raise awareness about how by donating small change, shoppers can make a big difference for poor entrepreneurs around the world.

Whole Planet Foundation honored recipients of the Whole Planet Foundation Vanguard awards: Daryl Hannah, a cultural icon who has been a life-long activists in promoting sustainable practices. The foundation also recognized the recipients of the Whole Planet Foundation Trailblazer awards Jack Johnson, Jessica Alba and Jason Mraz who have been proactive leaders in the changing global environments.

“As entrepreneurs operating under the Triple Bottom Line philosophy, measuring our success economically, socially and environmentally has always been the foundation for everything we do,” said Ryan Black, Sambazon co-founder and chief executive officer.  “We deliver on this mission through our partnership with over 10,000 independent family farmers and bio-diversity protection efforts in the Brazilian Amazon, which is why we’re so stoked to align with Whole Planet Foundation and its purpose.”

The event was also sponsored by Whole Foods Market West Hollywood, Chivas Regal and Gibson Pro Audio brands Cerwin Vega and Stanton, and was produced by Planet LA Music and Clamorhouse. The event featured innovative cross-promotional efforts between the Whole Planet Foundation, Whole Foods Market, artists, brand partners and technology platforms including Talenthouse, Thrillcall and Viddy apps.  In addition, brand partners including Sambazon, popchips, KIND Healthy Snacks and others launched cross-promotional campaigns to raise awareness for the benefit and their continuing support of Whole Planet Foundation.

Event partners included Hubert’s Lemonade, Tito’s Vodka, popchips, KIND Healthy Snacks, VOSS Water, Ciao Bella Gelato Co., Stone Brewing Company, Uber Cars and Wild Soul.  Other supporters included Essentia, Hand in Hand Soap, Hint, Justin’s, Late July Organic, PACT, Pretzel Crisps, Reason, The Republic of Tea, Steaz, Tasty Brand, VOS, World Centric, Zevia and others.

2nd Street Soundcheck 2012

On June 2nd, the 2ND Street District and nonprofits Whole Planet Foundation and Comfort The Children International (CTC) invited Austinites to attend 2ND Street Soundcheck, a free, fun-loving downtown celebration of social responsibility, philanthropy and live music, presented by Stonyfield Organic. More than 9,000 Austinites rocked out to bright emerging acts as well as artists who have graced the pages of Paste and Rolling Stone magazines. Brushfire Records’ Rogue Wave and the exploding talent of Polica headlined the festival along with sets by Alpha Rev, Ponderosa, Seryn and Cowboy & Indian. 

For an exclusive preview of the performers, tune into the Spotify playlist. 

Festival-goers also chowed down on global cuisine and snagged souvenirs from more than 40 food vendors, restaurants and brands that stand for ethical progress and change – all raising awareness and funds for CTC’s community development work and Whole Planet Foundation’s poverty alleviation efforts. “Live music is a huge part of Austin’s heart and soul. We’re thrilled to partner with CTC, 2ND Street District and our sponsors to host an event that not only showcases talented artists the city will love, but helps people recognize the power of their choices and the impact they can make on our global communities,” said Philip Sansone, president and executive director of Whole Planet Foundation. “Together, we can create real change for the working poor in developing communities around the world.”

“Launching Austin’s first philanthropic festival with Whole Planet Foundation and the 2ND Street District has been so inspiring,” said Zane Wilemon, founder and executive director of CTC. “It’s amazing to be a part of something that will bring positive impact to the people in Kenya. Collaborating with innovators whose hearts are dedicated to alleviating poverty locally and around the globe is powerful."

We would like to thank our sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor Stonyfield Organic; Platinum Sponsor LÄRABAR; Gold Sponsors Sambazon and Alexia Foods; Silver Sponsors ONE Campaign, TRIBE, Cascal, Car2Go, SooFoo, Threads 4 Thought, O.N.E. Coconut Water, Annie’s, Inc., and Center 61; and Bronze Sponsors Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day and Whole Foods Market.

Check out our Facebook album for photos.

 

 Aziza & the Cure

Symphonic Soul Pop duo, Aziza & the Cure, is devoted to cultivating a happier, healthier Earth. The duo's debut album (available Jan.7th 2014), portrays the trials and triumphs of the first few years of their relationship and has been called "Symphonic Magic" by Black Star News and described as "having outstanding, unforgettable melodies" by founder of MetroSonic Studios, Pete Mignola. 

"We're working to identify and cure our own personal ailments and those at large in society, so we're elated to work with Whole Planet Foundation to alleviate global poverty," said the couple. "The more resolutely we come together for the good of our neighbors and our planet, the more swiftly we will usher in the joyous future we were born to experience." 

1% of all Aziza & the Cure sales goes to Whole Planet Foundation. Learn more about Aziza & the Cure.

Lourds Lane

Lourds Lane is the creator of the 2013 Broadway-bound original musical, CHIX 6.  She wrote the book, music, and lyrics and is one of the stars of the show --  the electric-violin playing superhero, "Rise." Critically acclaimed, the NY Daily News raves: "It's only a matter of time before [CHIX 6] is a smash hit."  

A classically trained prodigy on violin and piano at age 3, Lourds toured with youth orchestras in concert halls around the world. Eventually, with a sparkly, new electric violin as her main axe, she kicked in the distortion pedal and shredded her way on tours across North America, fronting her rock band, LOURDS and amassing a diehard nation-wide fan base. Lourds Lane is the creator, host, and promoter of the NYC-basedMedusa Festival, featuring the best emerging female-fronted bands in the country.  She is also the founder of "The Lightning Girl Fun-Dation," an arts-based after school program for girls to discover a complete and visceral connection to their most empowered selves.  

Look out for Lourds as a featured speaker and performer in theTEDx Women's conference in Washington DC on December 1, 2012.  As producer, multi-instrumentalist, and charismatic singer and songstress, Billboard hails, "Lourds Lane breaks the rules while poised to break into the big time!" 

Download "I Know What I Am." 100% of proceeds from the sale of this song will support Whole Planet Foundation. 

Please join us in celebrating Lourds for her amazing talents and generosity!

Steph Carse and Timothy Lewis Band

Steph Carse and the Timothy Lewis Band are donating proceeds from the sale of songs “That’s Life” and “I Am” respectively to Whole Planet Foundation to help alleviate poverty worldwide. The artists’ contribution will help fund our mission to provide poor entrepreneurs in developing countries with a chance to lift themselves out of poverty through microcredit. 

Download "That's Life" by Steph Carse 

Download "I Am" by Timothy Lewis Band 

Steph Carse is no stranger to dedicating his inspirational vocals to great causes. Donating a song in 1999 to the Special Olympics album, “Holiday Heroes," together with artists Alan Jackson, Donna Summer, Brooks & Dunn and Kevin Bacon, they raised over $2 million for the cause. Sure, Steph reaches for the hearts of his audience, but not many are as 
successful when it comes time to instill a message that will inspire the soul as well. Joining Steph Carse both on and off the stage is the Timothy Lewis Band.  Rooted in rock, the five members of the band intoxicate their audience with soaring vocals, complemented further by haunting guitars mixed with warm keyboards. 

“We are all grateful to have the opportunity to supply our talents to Whole Planet Foundation and the funding ofmicroloans, providing others with an opportunity to fulfill their hopes and dreams,” said Carse/Lewis. “We all believe in “paying it forward” and it is our honor to give back to those in need.” 

We hope that you enjoy these awesome tracks and join us in thanking Steph and the Timothy Lewis Band for their generosity!  

Patrick Bradley

As a supporter of Whole Planet Foundation, Whole Foods Market Southern Pacific Regional President Patrick Bradleyoffered to make his second CD "Under The Sun" available at Whole Foods Market stores companywide and will be donating $2 from the sale of each CD to Whole Planet Foundation. The CD is contemporary Jazz Fusion with elements of Smooth Jazz, R&B, Urban, Funk, Upbeat Grooves and Progressive Rock. The CD was produced by Jeff Lorber with special musical guests Dave Koz, Rick Braun, Eric Marienthal, Dwight Sills, Dave Weckl and Michael Thompson. The album hit #6 on Smooth Indie Charts (Independent Radio Charts) and has been on the charts for 48 weeks now. Patrick has also won the Sesac 2011 Jazz Award and the Future of Jazz – Album of the Year.

To date, Patrick's album has raised $662, and we hope that you will join us in celebrating his generosity!

 

Press for the album: Randall Parrish - Jazz Reviews.com 
"Under the Sun is the title of the outstanding contemporary jazz release on Patrick's Song Factory from the masterful keyboardist/composer Patrick Bradley. His initial solo release, Come Rain or Shine, appeared four years ago serving as the artist's formal introduction. On Under the Sun the artist has emancipated all his enormous creative chops to craft a modern tour de force that provides gratifying classy excellence throughout. Bradley states that the idea lying at the root of this record, after reflection of his own life, was the philosophized principal to enjoy life during the brief time we partake of under the sun pursuing ones dreams, hopes and aspirations. He has wisely recruited Jeff Lorber to adeptly produce the record, aid in co-writing several of the songs, and to also provide a measure of his
singular trademark Philly funk/fusion flavored keyboards to the mix. Numerous other distinguished contemporary jazz heavyweights are also on hand. These imaginative, sleekly resourceful artists ardently give their significant support to Bradley, tightly embracing these marvelous melodies, with the entire package sumptuously enhanced by its jewel-like production."

Ginnette Ward

Ginnette Ward loves to perform and share her talents. Her love for singing has provided her with many opportunities to entertain audiences and support community events. For the last several years prior to the Space Shuttle fleet retiring, she performed for the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Pre-Launch Ceremonies. She has performed the National Anthem for the Orlando Magic NBA and Predator Arena football games at the Amway Center as well as many other local community and sporting events. In addition to singing she has appeared in commercials for Disney, Universal Studios, and ESPN NFL Monday Night Football. She has also worked on several television shows. 

Ginnette has enjoyed performing for several local charities and fund raising events. She was the featured performer for the 2012 Sentinels of Freedom annual fundraiser to help provide financial assistance to local disabled service men and women and their families. She shares her love for animals by volunteering at the Central Florida Animal Reserve, helping to care for rescued “Big Cats.” 

In 2009, Ginnette teamed up with her music producer, Michael B. Cochran. Together they recorded her first pop album “Questions” and in 2010 they recorded her second album “Here I Am” releasing both albums on iTunes. Production of these albums led her to the Country pop genre where she and Michael are currently working on new songs. Ginnette is excited to be performing Country Music because the songs allow her to tell stories and share life experiences, and she has decided to donate proceeds from the sale of one her songs to support our work.

Download Ginnette Ward's "What If Your World Changed Tomorrow" to s...

The Green Children

The Green Children Foundation was established by two musicians to support microcredit, education and 
healthcare. Through music sales and donations, Milla Sunde and Tom Bevan managed to raise the
 funds for a new eye care hospital in rural Bangladesh, a project of Professor Muhammad Yunus. The Green Children have supported Whole Planet Foundation over the last few years through CD sales at Whole Foods Market stores, fundraising concerts and in-store performances. To date, the Green Children have donated$10,527.51 to support microlending projects through Whole Planet Foundation. That's enough to create 65 new microloans that will change the lives of nearly 380 people!

Learn more about the Green Children and their great work!

[chris macrae]

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