STAR SPOTLIGHT: Sheryl Lee Ralph still giving back

DYNAMIC DIVA: Sheryl Lee Ralph performing for a worthy cause

Jamaican-born actress and humanitarian Sheryl Lee Ralph continues to fight the good fight, crusading and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS for nearly 20 years through her star-studded musical benefit, ‘DIVAs Simply Singing.’

Hosted by Emmy-nominated comedienne Niecy Nash, DIVAs (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation this year welcomes American Idol alum Frenchie Davis, soul singer N'dambi and fellow original Dreamgirls star Loretta Devine.

"We have never missed one year to tell folks what's really going on in our community," Ralph recently told Essence. "It's been hard because I'm always aware that they shoot the messengers.”

For almost two decades, DIVAs has donated thousands of dollars to raise awareness and help prevent HIV/AIDS in the United States and further overseas. This year Ralph plans to reach one and teach one by donating $150 per month to provide meals for 50 students and rebuild school yards with swings and ball courts.

Showtime begins on Saturday, October 10, at 7:30 P.M. at the Saban Theatre (formerly the Wilshire Theatre), located at 8440 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250.