Raleigh, N.C. — Clay Aiken performed in Raleigh Saturday night during a gala held by the Bubel-Aiken Foundation.

The 2008 “Champions of Change” event honored companies and individuals who help promote the foundation’s mission to promote programs which give children with disabilities the opportunity to experience life with their typical peers.

The event was held at the Raleigh Marriott City Center. It included a silent and online auction of Aiken-related items including photos; clothing worn by the “American Idol” runner-up and a bust of the Raleigh native’s head signed by him and Jimmy Kimmel.

Also up for auction was a New York travel package which includes a Tiffany bracelet, tickets to “Spamalot,” which Aiken has been starring in, and dinner with Aiken.

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation grew from the friendship between Aiken, Diane Bubel and Diane’s, then 13-year-old son, Mike, who had been diagnosed with autism, according to the foundation’s Web site. Aiken met the Bubel family while pursuing a career in special education.