What Happened at Covenant House's Star-Studded Virtual Gala?

On Monday, May 17, Covenant House held its annual Night of Covenant House Stars gala virtually. The event, named “Stand Up, Stand Strong,” was sponsored by Kia and honored the organization’s front-line workers as well as the young people experiencing homelessness with whom the group works. It was hosted by Audra McDonald and John Dickerson, both members of Covenant House’s board of directors.

Produced by Jeff Calhoun, and with musical supervision by Jason Howland, the event featured appearances by Covenant House supporters including Rachel Brosnahan, Meryl Streep, Robin Roberts, Dolly Parton, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and more as well as musical performances from Jon Bon Jovi, Vanessa Williams, Stephanie J. Block, Sara Barilles, and the cast of the Broadway musical Six.

“These stars have stepped up because they recognize that our young people don’t have the option to shelter at home without a home,” said Covenant House President Kevin Ryan. “For thousands of young people in this past year and for 1,900 young people tonight, Covenant House is their home. Night of Covenant House Stars will help us keep our doors open, 24/7, when youth experiencing homelessness need us more than ever.”

Proceeds from the event, which is streaming for 90 days at sites including CovenantHouse.org, Amazon Prime Video, Broadway On Demand, Facebook, and YouTube, go toward funding food, clothing, healthcare, education, job training, and s housing for youth overcoming homelessness at Covenant House across the United States, Canada, and Latin America.