ACM Lifting Lives Award

Eric Church

Eric Church was honored with the ACM Lifting Lives Award. Singer-songwriter, Sheryl Crow celebrated Church's honor by performing his multi-platinum number one hit, “Drink in My Hand” then sharing, “I’ve known Eric for years, and one of the things I’ve always admired about him is the way he goes about life. He’s incredibly humble, he lets his music speak for itself, and he’s always been someone who gives back without looking for recognition in return. He’s a truly remarkable human being, and I’m so proud to call him a friend.”

To accept his award, Church took to the stage and shared his gratitude and highlighted the continued work of Chief Cares, “I believe that God made music the universal language…It is because of music that this [the work of Chief Cares] happened, it’s changing people’s lives, it’s changing their kid’s lives.”

The ACM Lifting Lives Award honors the contributions of Gary Haber, known as a business manager and past president of ACM Lifting Lives. This award is presented to a Country Music artist, duo/group, or industry professional who is devoted to improving lives through the power of music, has a generosity of spirit, and is committed to serving others. It is voted on by the ACM Lifting Lives Board of Directors.

Eric Church received the ACM Lifting Lives Award for his immense support of others throughout his career and his notable contributions to large-scale disaster relief fundraising and rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Helene.

Church’s Helene efforts started with the Concert for Carolina that he co-organized with Luke Combs, then donating all royalties from “Darkest Hour,” and he remains active in helping NC rebuild after identifying there was a gap of support in the community following the devastation. His charitable fund – Chief Cares – was created in 2013 to serve those in need and strengthen communities through compassion, action, and long-term investment. Through Chief Cares, Eric is currently helping North Carolina rebuild with a housing initiative, Blue Haven, to build rent-free, mortgage-free homes to restore the community. Additionally, he has given millions in support, including helping orphanages in Nepal, relief efforts in Haiti, and humane society no-kill shelters. He has supported ACM Lifting Lives directly, participating in the 2021 Ad Council and COVID Collaborative public service advertisement (PSA) during the 56th ACM Awards.

Past recipients of this award are: Jelly Roll, Luke Bryan, Troy Vollhoffer, Dwight Wiles, Paul Barnabee, Ross Copperman, Lady A, Gayle Holcomb, Darius Rucker, Dolly Parton, and Carrie Underwood.