Raleigh, N.C. — "American Idol" runner-up Clay Aiken is sporting a new look these days, but he hasn't changed his favorite cause.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation charity for the inclusion of children with developmental disabilities hosted its annual Champion of Change Gala in Raleigh, where Aiken spoke to WRAL's own Lynda Loveland about what the sold-out event supports.

"We have a lot of different programs,” Aiken said. “We give out a lot of grants throughout the year to YMCA programs, Boys and Girls Clubs, you name it -- any community organization, educational organization, extracurricular activity organizations that are able to include kids with disabilities into their programs, we give out grants.”

The foundation also helps train organizations to build curriculums for children with disabilities.

This was the first time the gala was held in Raleigh. Organizers said they expect to raise more than $100,000 for the foundation.