AIAS Hosts Starbright Children's Foundation Fundraiser

Officials from the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences (AIAS) have that the organization is holding a fundraiser for a Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation Fun Center, described as a mobile entertainment center aimed to distract hospitalized children from their otherwise cumbersome illnesses. Organizers note that AIAS will donate $1 for every member's vote for the 2007 Interactive Achievement Awards to Starlight Starbright, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for seriously ill children and their families. The February 8, 2007 event will be once again hosted by comedian Jay Mohr at a ceremony at “The Joint” at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. According to AIAS, all proceeds from the fundraising drive will be donated towards acquiring a Fun Center for placement in a hospital. Fun Centers are mobile entertainment units containing flat screen televisions, DVD players and Nintendo game consoles, all of which are designed to improve the quality of a pediatric patient's hospital stay. On top of acting as a temporary distraction from illness or even nervousness stemming from the hospital surroundings, Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation representatives add that the Fun Center use may even result in a reduced need for pain medication. "We are overjoyed to support this great program that provides young patients with entertainment, excitement and even a distraction during their exhaustive treatments and long hospital stays," commented AIAS president Joseph Olin. "The gaming community understands the hardships these children face while hospitalized and is pleased to give back and be a part of such a supportive and respected organization." Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation CEO Paula Van Ness added: “We would like to thank AIAS for its support of our Fun Center program. A Fun Center uniquely counters the isolation and fear that hospitalized children often face and is a welcome guest when other visitors aren't around. We hope each and every member of AIAS casts a vote!"