OAK BROOK, Ill. — World Children's Day at McDonald's, the company's largest annual fundraiser for children, turned 5 Nov. 17.
Entertainers, musicians, executives and children came together in New York City for a worldwide celebration to support fundraising efforts conducted in more than 100 countries for Ronald McDonald House Charities and other children's causes.
Just hours after judges announced the winning couple on the hit television series "Dancing With The Stars" season finale, winner Emmitt Smith and dance partner Cheryl Burke, along with runner-up Mario Lopez and dance partner Karina Smirnoff, joined McDonald's chief Jim Skinner, World Children's Day global ambassador Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, actress Sofia Vergara and other entertainers at the 42nd Street McDonald's.
After meeting with children and families staying at the Ronald McDonald House of New York City, event participants stopped behind the counter to help raise funds for World Children's Day.
"McDonald's has a rich tradition of being a good community partner and neighbor," said Skinner. "As the needs of the world's children have increased over time, so has the need for companies and citizens to play a more active role in affecting positive change."
