Weekend Spotlight: Stars Will Turn Out for Russell Simmons' Art for Life

Russell Simmons will host the 12th annual benefit for his foundation Rush Philanthropic at his East Hampton estate on Saturday evening, while honoring songstress Mary J. Blige and actor Edward Norton for their career achievements and work in philanthropy.

CNN's Soledad O'Brien will host the gala, and Star Jones will serve as "Rush Kids Auctioneer." Jennifer Hudson will perform.

All proceeds will be donated to Rush Philanthropic, a charity founded by Simmons with his brothers, the artist Danny Simmons, and Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons of Run DMC, to bring art programs to disadvantaged youths in less fortunate areas.

The organization is committed to providing access to the arts as well as offering exhibition opportunities for underrepresented artists and artists of color, according to the group's mission statement. The charity began in 1995, and serves about 2,500 students annually. In addition, Rush Education Programs provide alternatives to high-risk behaviors and support academic performance.

Throughout Saturday evening guests will be invited to bid on a silent auction which includes art from 12 to 15 artists including Danny Simmons, and celebrity packages, such as a behind-the-scenes day with Tracy Morgan on the set of "30 Rock."

Serving as honorary chairs of the star-studded benefit are Amagansett homeowner and actress Gwyneth Paltrow, model and reality star Kimora Lee Simmons, who is also Russell Simmons' former wife, and Kimora's boyfriend and father of her son, the actor Djimon Hounsou.

Actress Uma Thurman, La La Anthony, an actress and the wife of NBA star Carmelo Anthony, fashion model and actress join as Event Chairs.

Also being honored on Saturday are nutritionist and author Oz Garcia, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Jimmy Choo shoes Tamara Mellon, and JPMorgan Chase Foundation President Kimberly B. Davis. 

Norton is being recognized for his work with Crowdrise, of which is a co-founder. It's a social-good website that helps people create their own grassroots fundraising efforts. The site offers incentives and prizes to encourage charitable activity and allows users to engage with donors and fundraisers through social media.

The cocktail party starts at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7. Tickets cost $1,500 each, and can be purchased online.