This Thursday, July 1st, artists, musicians and activists worldwide will unite to benefit those directly impacted by the Gulf Coast Oil Spill. Proceeds from all participating venues will be donated to The Gulf Restoration Network, a nonprofit committed to uniting and empowering people to protect and restore the natural resources of the Gulf Region for future generations.

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The organizers have created an ambitious goal: Gather music venues around the country to donate ticket sales on July 1st and create an online giving platform that encourages donations to the relief efforts. The fundraising goal is set to $500,000, which will be directed to the Gulf Restoration Network, a nonprofit providing assistance to the people, wildlife and wetlands affected as well as advocacy work throughout the Gulf Coast.

Artists include: Rebelution / Galactic / Kaki King / Mickey Avalon / Ben Lee / Guitar Shorty / Iglu & Hartly / Ivan Neville / Cisco & Shwayze / Walter Wolfman Washington / Sarah Borges / Coco Robicheaux / Beardo / Wicker / Lost Bayou Ramblers / Rotary Downs / Daryl Hannah / Dave Faustino / Ed Begley, Jr.

The organizers of the event include: Nic Adler, owner of The Roxy on the Sunset Strip; Megan Jacobs of The Roxy, Casey Phillips, talent buyer for venues including Tipitina’s in New Orleans and Viper Room & The Mint in Los Angeles, and Sloane Berrent, founder of Answer With Action and creator of The Causemopolitan.

Revenues from ticket sales will be donated to help the fishermen and their families along the Gulf Coast cope with this disaster in addition to wildlife and wetlands restoration for the Gulf Coast. Over 25 venues have been confirmed and more are being added every day. Artists performing include national as well as local acts across the US.

"We know through music and the generosity of people that we can help make a difference in the Gulf Coast." Adler says. "We hope this inspires others to make a donation, attend an event and get involved."

The wetlands and wildlife are in desperate need of our attention as oil continues gushing from the Gulf of Mexico more than two months after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. Let's come together to shine a light on those most affected and raise funds toward recovery!

Find a July 1 benefit near you at http://www.meetup.com/Gulf-Coast-Benefit-For-Fisherman-and-Wildlife.

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Visit this Live Earth video page for the latest photos, video, and more from the events

Let's make a difference now!