Jack's Mannequin

I had the distinct honor of being awarded last night with an mtv woodie for the work that I have done over the years for charity. In all the time I have played music I don't think I have been to a single award show and in a way I feel blessed that my first experience celebrated something I hold so dear. The truth is, as I stepped up to receive the award it occurred to me there was not a stage big enough to hold all of the people who truly won this prize. Largely, the acts I was being recognized for, were not my own, but those of my fans, my friends and my family. It is for the people, who in the wake of my own personal struggle took on my cause and my fight to help the sick that I accepted last night's award. It is for the homespun charities and wristband projects, the light the night walkers, the many involved with our amnesty international efforts and those who continue to inspire me through the Dear Jack Foundation that I took the stage last night. Without you all there would be no award, there would be no work and there would be no movement to celebrate. I was beside myself to find that it was, in fact, the fans who voted to put me on stage last night. Thank you! In a category filled with incredible people who have devoted much of their lives to using their celebrity for good it astounds me that I was the one sent to collect. The work of every artist I was nominated with is so substantial and in truth I think it is one award show category that could not possibly have a winner or a loser. To be named next to a hero of mine like Eddie Vedder, who has devoted the past two years of his life to telling the story of a young soldier seems almost surreal, and speaks to the truth that this is not an award I keep but one I share. I share it with anyone who wakes up and looks for ways to make the world around them better and with those of you who deemed me worthy of such an honor. I am truly humbled.

Eddie Vedder
Humanitarian Work
For continued activism surrounding veteran issues, Bridge School benefit, PETA, and Children's music programs.
http://www.pearljam.com/activism/

Emmanuel Jal
"Gua Africa"
A former child soldier himself, he founded the organization to help communities overcome the effects of war and poverty.
http://www.guaafricaonline.com/

Ludacris
"The Ludacris Foundation"
Since 2001, the foundation has donated $500,000 to support grassroots organizations that help connect with youth to build stronger families and communities.
http://www.theludacrisfoundation.org/

Mary J Blige
"FFawn Foundation"
This new foundation's goal is to empower women through scholarships, grants and other educational resources, building confidence and career skills.
http://ourworld.ffawn.org/home.php