Teen actors compete for a good cause on ‘Star Kids Challenge’

The games have begun. Again. For the past three years, young celebrities have gathered together in relay sporting events to raise money for charity. Some of TV’s most popular kid stars team up to compete in events ranging from a virtual-reality computer game to a tug-of-war.

“We wanted to focus on youth-oriented programs with positive messages,” says David Rovsek, executive producer of The Star Kids Challenge, which has attracted 85 young celebrities for its three shows.

“The response from the young celebrities is unprecedented. We have continual support from them,” he says.

This year’s show features 28 team participants with six hosts and guest hosts. Included among the celebrities are Joey Lawrence (“Blossom”), Alfonse Ribiero (“Fresh Prince of Bel Air”), Jenna Von Oy (“Blossom”), Dawn Lewis (“Hanging With Mr. Cooper”), Josie Bissett (“Melrose Place”), Soleil Moon Frye (“Punky Brewster”), Carol-Anne Plante (“Harry and the Hendersons”) and Lark Voorhies (“Saved By the Bell”).

“I liked the events where there were rigorous activities,” says Voorhies, 19, of “Saved By the Bell.” “I think kids are gonna really like seeing their favorite teen celebrities playing games and having fun. It’s great raising money for kids who otherwise wouldn’t have a chance unless this organization put this event together.”

The show’s charity partners include Heal The World, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the United Cerebral Palsy and Easter Seals foundations. Each of the four charities share in a $100,000 competition prize.

“The Star Kids Challenge” airs Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon on KNBC and KUSI.

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