SELF took a break from tracking Jennifer Lopez's triathlon training triumphs and caught up with her in Denver for a different sort of impressive undertaking. Yesterday, our 2008 Most Inspiring Woman hosted a reception to honor a woman who inspires her, Marian Wright Edelman, founder and president of the Children's Defense Fund. The event, cohosted by Capitol File magazine and Viacom (with a little help from SELF), paid tribute to Edelman for all the amazing work she's done on behalf of those who can't vote, lobby or speak for themselves.
The Denver Art Museum was buzzing with political stars and politically minded celebs in town for the Democratic National Convention. Everyone there was talking about how this was the most star-studded event of the week so far. We spotted New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson; Ken Salazar, senator from Colorado; Antonio Villaraigosa, mayor of Los Angeles; plus Angela Bassett, Connie Britton, Fran Drescher, Cameron Crowe, J.J. Abrams and more.
Jennifer was busy as host, but she of course stopped to talk to SELF about the event and what's next for her with her triathlon training (more swimming!). Everyone seemed so energetic and excited; you could feel the positive energy, which grew as Jennifer took the podium (looking incredible, with a new, blonder 'do, courtesy of the fabulous Ken Paves) to introduce Edelman.
Jennifer talked about the work Edelman has done and what an inspiration she's been now that Jennifer herself is more involved in philanthropic projects. (Aside from partnering with SELF to raise money for Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, which you've been reading about on this blog, she's in the process of starting her own foundation!)
"After the birth of my children, I felt even stronger about making a difference. If I had a dollar for everyone who told me, 'Jennifer, don't start your own foundation, it will be such a headache,' I could have provided health care for all the children in the country," she said.
But all the obstacles have only strengthened her resolve to follow Edelman's example, she added. If the dedication she puts into triathlon training and raising money for the hospital is any indication, we know Jennifer's foundation will be a huge success.
Keep checking back to read more about Jennifer's triathlon training progress and charity initiatives.
August 28, 2008
Hey guys, please don't forget to donate anything you can below.
Please help Jen, and the women and children she is trying to help by donating money for Jen's triathlon run. All proceeds go to the CHLA mentioned above.
Please click image blow to donate, any amount helps.
