Did you know that 633 million people across the world still lack access to safe, clean drinking water? Founded in 2008 by the admirable Seth Maxwell, the Thirst Project is the largest youth-led water activism organization in the world. The impactful organization has made a drastic impact in the lives of a countless amount of people through education and donations. The Thirst Project has traveled nationwide and spoke to hundreds of thousands of students educating them on the water crisis and informing them on ways they can help. In fact, the Thirst Project uses 100% of their funds to build over 3,000 water projects in 13 different countries, providing over 400,000 people with clean water for life.
Through the years, the Thirst Project has gained an innumerable amount of celebrity supporters including one incredibly special individual who has touched the lives of many – the extraordinary Cameron Boyce. The Thirst Project honored Cameron Boyce’s lasting legacy at its 10th Annual Thirst Gala on September 28, 2019 at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. The spectacular event was hosted by profound actress and The Office star, Angela Kinsey. The marvelous event raised $366,000.
Consummate actor Adam Sandler attended the event and brought tears to attendees’ eyes as he discussed his relationship with the wonderful Cameron Boyce. Libby Boyce of the Cameron Boyce Foundation shared works with the audience about her son during the silent auction. Thirst Project CEO / Founder Seth Maxwell gave a touching speech and discussed the influence Cameron Boyce had on the organization. Maxwell said, “It has to be said that Cameron did more with 20 years than almost anyone does with much more time… a person who knew no bounds in giving of his time and energy.” To continue on his legacy, the Thirst Project renamed the Pioneering Spirit Award, the award given to Cameron Boyce at the gala last year, to the Cameron Boyce Pioneering Spirit Award. This year’s Cameron Boyce Pioneering Spirit Award was presented by Boyce’s best-friends Karan Brar and Sophie Reynolds to Craig Thompson. In addition, Disney helped eight wells be built to bring water to those in need and continue the inspiring work Cameron Boyce did with the organization.
Many terrific individuals were recognized at this year’s Thirst Gala. Adam Sandler and Bryce Dallas Howard presented the Power of Youth Award to high-school student, Diana Baliscao. The Office stars Kate Flannery and Jenna Fischer presented the Board of Governor’s Award to YouTube stars, the ACE Family. The Volunteer Award was presented by Wyatt Oleff and Laura Marano to Patty Roseth, Latreese Klein and Vanessa Wiater. In addition, Drake Bell and Monique Coleman presented the Vision Award to leading gaming culture, 3BLACKDOT.
The outstanding event continued with music sensation Gavin DeGraw performing his songs “Soldier” and “I Don’t Wanna Be.” Other celebrities who attended the event include Jonathan Bennett, Nick Viall, Jillian Rose Reed, Victoria Konefal, Casey Simpson, Drew Seeley, Crystal Reed, Steven R. McQueen, Ashley Iaconetti, Luke Benward, Mace Coronel and more.
Check out some more photos below from the exceptional 10th Annual Thirst Gala! Visit the Thirst Project’s website and the Cameron Boyce Foundation’s website to learn more on ways you can get involved.
Photo Credits: Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images
