In recent years, the music and entertainment industry has seen a shift towards using their influence for philanthropy and social change. A prime example is Emmy® Award-winning casting director and talent executive Robi Reed’s annual “Sunshine Beyond Summer Celebration.” This post takes a nostalgic trip back to the 2014 edition of this event held at the opulent estate of philanthropist and healthcare entrepreneur Lorna Johnson in Beverly Hills, California. Reed, who is renowned for her legendary end-of-summer event, brought together a diverse group of over 300 influencers for a unique fundraiser. The event was filled with music, comedy, and a healthy dose of celebration, all for a good cause.
Robi Reed’s Annual Sunshine Beyond Summer Celebration
On Saturday, September 13, 2014, the Reed For Hope Foundation benefited from a day filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt conversation. The event was hosted by actress/model Eva Marcille and actress/comedian Kym Whitley, with music by DJ Tendaji Lathan and performances by Goapele and the Hidden Beach Experience.
Reed For Hope Foundation (RFHF)
Reed’s RFHF focuses on health, wellness, and disease prevention. The Love Healthy campaign, one of RFHF’s initiatives, aims to spark conversations on how influencers can use their social currency to affect public attitudes about health disparities, disease prevention, and general wellness. The foundation is also doing commendable work, such as building wells for clean drinking water in Africa and producing a documentary about sickle cell anemia.
Who Was There?
The event was attended by notable personalities like Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Jill Scott, actress Regina King, former NFL player Terrell Owens, hip-hop pioneer MC Lyte, and many more. The pre-event reception hosted by actor/producer Wren T. Brown saw special awards presented to Lorna Johnson, Tony Lee, Samantha Granberry, Toure Roberts, Eric and Maleka Beal, and Eva Marcille.
Sponsors and Partners
The 2014 SBS Celebration was presented in association with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Co-sponsors included the American Heart Association, Bling H20, Chef Judson Todd Allen, Chef Works, Healthy Infused Cuisine, Hidden Beach Recordings, Lorna Johnson, NIKE, Ralph’s, and Wings Limousine.
Remember to join the conversation on social media with the hashtags #MusicIndustry, #EntertainmentEvents, #MusicForACause, #RobiReed, and #SunshineBeyondSummer.