Boston Celtics Have 17 World Titles and Now One as UNICEF Children's Champion

The last time the Boston Celtics were named World Champions was in 2008 but, Thursday night the Big Green Team earned the title of Children's Champion for their humanitarian efforts in Haiti at a ceremony hosted by the US Fund for UNICEF.

Actor and performer Donnie Wahlberg, actor/comedian Lenny Clarke, R&B artists Boyz II Men and Celtics standouts Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen were all on hand last night at the House of Blues in Boston when the Celtics were honored. The Celtics Shamrock Foundation, with the help of Celtics owners, players, staff and fans, raised $100,000 to help the ongoing relief efforts through in-game donations. No NBA organization has won more titles than the 17-time World Champion Boston Celtics, but this is the first time the team's foundation has been inducted as Children's Champions.

The awards ceremony was part of an annual fundraising event on behalf of UNICEF, which has saved more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world. The organization works in more than 150 countries providing health care, clean water, nutrition, education and emergency relief. Tickets to Thursday night's event began at $500 and featured a performance by Boyz II Men, a live auction and a reception. All proceeds from the benefit will support UNICEF's programs for children in Haiti.

In addition to the $100,000 in-game donations raised by the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation, the Celtics Women's Group created a pubic service announcement featuring all Celtics players and Head Coach Doc Rivers encouraging donations to the earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

The Children's Champion Award is presented by the US Fund for UNICEF to public figures who strive to make a difference on behalf of children. Past recipients include Nelson Mandela, Queen Noor of Jordan and Audrey Hepburn.

Photo courtesy of the Boston Celtics.