Do Good, Live Well

Altruistic A-listers, distinguished designers, and coveted corporations have gotten extremely creative in the name of good causes. With social media being the recent rage, online auctioning has become an increasingly popular fundraising format. Celebrities are donating dinner dates, resorts are offering luxurious rooms, and fashion houses are opening their doors. Philanthropy has become more than just a buzzword – it’s the new way of life. With the support of charitybuzz, millions of dollars have been raised for a number of non-profits around the world. Here’s a preview of the prizes some big-hearted people have bid on. www.charitybuzz.com

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”
— Winston Churchill

OPRAH WINFREY MEET & GREET
Last fall, Oprah Winfrey announced that 2011 will mark the end of her celebrated talk show – making this particular prize that much more prestigious. Not only do the top bidders receive four VIP tickets to The Oprah Winfrey Show, but they also get an exclusive backstage meet-and-greet with the dynamic ruler of daytime TV.
Estimated Value: $50,000
Final Bid: $36,500
Cause: Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights

A CHANCE TO CHALLENGE BILL CLINTON AT A ROUND OF GOLF
The 42nd president of the United States is offering his time and talent to the lucky recipient who donated the most for a tee-off. The pair will play a round of golf at the distinguished Trump National Golf Course in Briarcliff Manor, New York.
Estimated Value: $100,000
Final Bid: $80,000
Cause: Christie’s Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth

ROCK OUT ON THE SET OF 30 ROCK WITH ALEC BALDWIN
The top bidder will kick back at the Rockefeller Center with Alec Baldwin, star of 30 Rock. Baldwin will take one special guest behind the scenes for a rehearsal, taping and studio tour of NBC’s No. 1 comedy series.
Estimated Value: $10,000
Final Bid: $25,000
Cause: Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights

MAKE SMALL TALK WITH ROBERT DE NIRO OVER COFFEE
Meet the Oscar-winning actor in the Red Apple for a hot cup of coffee and some good conversation.  The godfather of the big screen and famous philanthropist is taking one winner and a chosen friend out for lattes, and dishing out four passes to the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival.
Estimated Value: $7,500
Final Bid: $8,500
Cause: Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights

VIP SCREENING/AFTER PARTY PASSES TO FENCES, STARRING DENZEL WASHINGTON
One generous bidder and a lucky loved one were able to watch double Academy Award winning actor Denzel Washington star in the Broadway revival of the Pulitzer Prize winning play Fences on April 26th, 2010. In New York City style, the star-studded after party left little time for shut-eye.
Estimated Value: $1,500
Final Bid: $2,750
Cause: Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

CALIFORNIA WINERY EXPERIENCE FOR SIX WITH EMERIL LAGASSE
Fly first class with five friends to meet chef Emeril Lagasse and winemaker Bob Cabral for a vineyard tour and dinner at California’s Williams Selyem Winery. After sipping on fine Pinot Noir, the fortunate sextet will rest at the nearby Hotel Healdsburg.
Estimated Value: $50,000
Final Bid: Undisclosed
Cause: Keep Memory Alive

VISIT AFRICA AND STAY AT THE KIFARU HOUSE IN MOUNT KENYA
This awe-inspiring African experience at the privately owned 65,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on the bluff of Mount Kenya defines spectacular. Up to 10 people will spend seven days at the secluded Kifaru House.
Estimated Value: $49,000
Final Bid: Undisclosed
Cause: WINGS WorldQuest

CUSTOMIZE YOUR VERY OWN BOTTEGA VENETA HANDBAG
As a trendsetter in the inventive design of high-end Italian leather goods, Bottega Veneta is offering the top bidder a generous opportunity to meet with an expert to customize a handbag from the luxury brand’s Icon collection. The humanitarian’s handbag will be personalized from inner lining to outer skin.
Estimated Value: $20,000
Final Bid: $17,501
Cause: Christie’s Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth

LOUNGE AT THE AMANYARA RESORT AT TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
Words simply can’t convey the exquisiteness of this oceanside Caribbean resort. Four nights free accommodation in a lavish four-bedroom villa was granted to one lucky guy or girl and seven of their deserving friends. The perfect place to rest, relax and maybe even reef dive.
Estimated Value: $27,800
Final Bid: $13,800
Cause: Christie’s Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth

TOUR JAY LENO’S CELEBRATED CAR COLLECTION
The doors of Jay Leno’s custom-built Big Dog Garage lifted for an exclusive private viewing for two. Known for his coveted car collection that spans generations, Leno’s famed garage houses everything from a Stanley Steamer to a Bugatti Atlantic.
Estimated Value: $5,000
Final Bid: $23,000
Cause: Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights

YOUR KID COULD BE THE NEXT GAP MODEL
Set the stage for your child’s success. In addition to a personal photo shoot and the chance at starring in a Gap ad, your lucky little one will tour Central Park and attend a Universal movie premiere in Los Angeles.
Estimated Value: $20,000
Final Bid: $10,000
Cause: Christie’s Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth

ONE WEEK AT VOGUE
Spend a week with the woman who runs the runways. Iconic Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue has invited one ambitious bidder to spend seven days sharpening their fashion editorial skills at the magazine’s New York City office. The fortunate follower will even get to sit in on a New York fashion week show.
Estimated Value: $10,000
Final Bid: $42,500
Cause: Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights