Kris Allen Fan Fundraiser a Huge Success: $28,000 Raised for Music Empowers Foundation

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Jan. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The "Alright with Music" fundraiser honoring American Idol winner and platinum-selling recording artist, Kris Allen, exceeded all expectations as many hundreds of fans donated to raise over $28,000 for the Music Empowers Foundation and music education for kids.  The event, which ended just days ago, raised over $10,000 in the last week of the initiative alone, allowing the fundraiser to surpass its original goal of $25,000 by over 10%.

"Alright with Music" was conceived and sponsored by a group of Kris Allen fans who were inspired by his spirit of giving and wanted to bring focus to one of his passions, music education.  "I've always said that my fans are the greatest and their generosity and support for Alright with Music solidifies my point," said Mr. Allen when asked about the fundraiser.  "Music education is very important to me and I'm glad that my fans share the same passion."

Since winning American Idol in 2009, Kris Allen has become a strong advocate for music education for children.  He has lent his support to music education causes, especially Music Empowers Foundation, with which he partners on several initiatives.  In October of 2010, Mr. Allen was honored by Little Kids Rock at their annual "Right to Rock" gala for his contributions to music education for children.

Organizers of the event were understandably pleased.  "It has been an honor and pleasure for all of us to work on this project," said Kathy Tibaldi, leader of the Alright with Music team.  "Of course, we would not have been nearly so successful without the help of many people.  We'd like to thank Andy Davis, founder of Music Empowers for his encouragement and energy, Kris Allen, his family, and his management team for all of their support, and our fellow Kris Allen fans for spreading the word and sharing our enthusiasm for Music Empowers Foundation."

"Music Empowers Foundation is humbled by the great generosity of Kris Allen's fans and others who supported this event," expressed Andy Davis.  "I'd like to thank Kris Allen for inspiring his fans to such generosity and for his awesome support of music education for kids." Mr. Davis went on to explain that funds raised will be used by Music Empowers Foundation to continue supporting music education programs offered by organizations such as Little Kids Rock, Berklee City Music Network, and Blackbird Academy of Arts.

To learn more about Music Empowers Foundation, visit www.musicempowersfoundation.org, visit their Facebook or follow them on Twitter @musicempowers.

SOURCE Music Empowers Foundation