The Ludacris Foundation Announces
5th Annual Benefit Dinner

The Gala will recognize the achievements of three individuals with a rich history of giving back and who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service

Atlanta, GA --- The Ludacris Foundation announces its 5th Annual Benefit Dinner to take place Wednesday, May 14, 2008, 7:00 PM at The Foundry at Puritan Mill, 916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd, Atlanta, GA. The gala will be filled with special performances and festive activities while supporting the foundation’s efforts to raise funds for community groups and special programs.

The foundation will recognize three outstanding individuals for their tireless work and strong commitment to community service. Honorees are selected in acknowledgment of the excellence and integrity embodied in their work, as well as their willingness to support and participate in programs benefiting their community. This year’s honorees include Earvin “Magic” Johnson and The Magic Johnson Foundation, The Chairman’s Award; Anheuser-Busch accepted by Johnny Furr, Jr., The Corporate Award; and Frank Ski and Frank Ski Kids Foundation Inc., The Community Service Award. 

The event will commence at 6:00 PM with red carpet arrivals beginning at 6:30 PM. Doors open at 7:00 PM for a VIP Press Reception lasting until 8:00 PM. The 5th Annual Benefit Dinner begins at 8:00 PM and the Casino Night will start immediately after the dinner in a special VIP area at 10 PM.

The dinner features a silent auction with of one-of-a-kind music and film memorabilia as well as other fantastic items and special live performances by surprise guests. The invitation only dinner will be hosted by Grammy winning & multi-platinum hip-hop artist Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and comedian DeRay Davis. 

Invited and confirmed guests include: Fergie, Bob Johnson, LA Reid, Lyor Cohen, Jay Z, Kevin Lyles, Usher, Mary J. Blige, Nas, Lil Jon, Ciara, Bow Wow, Dallas Austin, Chris Brown, Gabrielle Union, Jermaine Dupri, Don Paulo, Tyler Perry, CeeLo/Gnarls Barkley, Andre 3000, Big Boi, Terrance Howard, India.Arie, Common, Damon Stoudamire, Butch Lewis, Bobby Brown, Terrell Owens, Larenz Tate, Ying Yang Twins, Mark Wahlberg, David Banner, Lil Wayne, Lyfe Jennings, Jazzy Phae, Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and a host of other celebrities and VIPs.

All proceeds from the dinner will benefit The Ludacris Foundation: LudaCares Program, The Standup Initiative and other local and national programs. 

Media can direct questions/inquiries to Barry Florence, BDC World Public Relations at 202-365-5401. For media credentials call or send an email to bflorence1@verizon.net.

About the Ludacris Foundation

The Ludacris Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization created to help young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of “Principles of Success.” We aim to show young people in America that they are the builders of their future. We primarily use music and the arts to connect with young people by listening to their views, issues, and challenges. Our efforts reach youth at all age levels.

Founded in 2001 by multi-platinum selling, GRAMMY® award winning artist and actor, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, TLF has achieved notable success. TLF has been named as one of the top twenty "Leading Philanthropy Foundations" by Black Enterprise magazine and featured in The Robb Report’s Worth magazine and The Chronicles on Philanthropy, The Newspaper of the Non-Profit World, for outstanding efforts provided to urban communities. For more information, visit www.theludacrisfoundation.org.