Jon Bon Jovi, Sting, others appear on TV for JCPenney Jam

Jon Bon Jovi, Sting, Mary J. Blige and Kenny Chesney are among the artists scheduled to appear during tomorrow (8/22) night's televised JCPenney Jam, a pre-recorded concert that aims to raise awareness of the need for quality afterschool programs, according to organizers.

Other artists who will turn up during the broadcast include Sara Evans, Martina Mcride, Chris Botti, 3 Doors Down, Andrea Bocelli, Alejandro Sanz and John Legend.

Titled "JCPenney Jam ... The Concert for America's Kids," the event--which was shot June 14 at Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium--will air as a one-hour special on CBS-TV at 8 p.m. Eastern/Pacific, according to a press release. Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw hosted, and David Foster served as the show's music director.

"In order to bring this critical issue into the national spotlight, JCPenney wanted to create an effective vehicle to reach working parents across the country," Michael Theilmann, chairman of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund, said in a statement. "With the help of the participating musicians and influential partners such as the NFL, the JCPenney JAM television special has the potential to reach millions of Americans and generate a great deal of support for the afterschool cause."

On Wednesday, a combination CD/DVD set featuring the entire three-hour concert and behind-the-scenes material shot during the production will be available exclusively at JCPenney stores and online at jcp.com, according to a press release. Additionally, the chain will offer a DVD titled "A Real World Afterschool Partnership." Created by Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, the DVD addresses the need for afterschool programs and includes "helpful advice on how to get involved."

Sales from both items will go to support the JCPenney Afterschool Fund, which will contribute over $7 million in grants to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, YMCA of the USA, National 4-H and United Way of America this school year, according to a press release. Additionally, JCPenney will contribute over $1 million in gift cards in support of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund grants. Each child who receives a grant will also receive a $100 JCPenney gift card to help with the purchase of clothing and supplies for the upcoming school year.

More information about the JCPenney Jam and the JCPenney Afterschool fund is available at the fund's official website.