Judith Leiber, the American
luxury brand known for its crystal and exotic skin accessories often seen on the
red carpet, will team up with Nelly for a private in-store event next Thursday
(May 5.)
The VIP fundraising event will benefit Nelly’s non-profit foundation, 4Sho4Kids,
which provides literacy and other educational and social programs to underprivileged
inner-city youth.
"What I am trying to do with 4Sho4Kids and children nationwide, is to
encourage them to use their minds and provide them with a positive environment,"
Nelly explained.
The event will feature a live auction with Nelly as auctioneer and will boast
one-of-a-kind items including a diamond encrusted Hello Kitty minaudiere co-designed
by Judith Leiber and Kimora Lee Simmons valued at $125,000 (opening bid $50,000!);
an alligator and diamond PDA case co-developed by Judith Leiber and Simmons
Jewelry Co.; VIP backstage tickets to Nelly’s upcoming Sweat & Suit tour;
and, an autographed "Nellyville" jacket and Nike Air Force 1 sneakers
contributed by the rapper himself.
Proceeds from this event will benefit4Sho4Kids, a nonprofit foundation, which
is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children born with developmental
disabilities and children born, addicted to drugs.
“Collaborating with Judith Leiber allows us to raise funds for the foundation
and provides children with a better alternative other than the streets,”
Nelly continued. “So not only is this is an exciting joint venture for
both Judith Leiber and myself but an event for a good cause."
4Sho4Kids also supports the Jes Us 4 Jackie campaign, a national marrow registry
in honor of Nelly’s sister, Jackie Donahue, who recently lost her battle with
leukemia.