PHOTOS: Pop Singer Cher Lloyd Performs at Lemont High School

Lemont High School was be rewarded for its charitable efforts Monday when pop music star Cher Lloyd, a standout on Britain's version of "The X Factor," performed a private concert for students.

Lloyd visited Lemont for Goodwill's "Faul Haul Donation Challenge," which encouraged Chicago-area high schools to donate gently-used clothing and household items to local Goodwill stores throughout the month of November. 

Prior to Lloyd taking the stage for her acoustic set, B96's "DJ Flipside" entertained the crowd of 1,400-plus students, mashing together a medley of today's hottest songs, and J Niice and Showbiz Shelly from B96's morning show congratulated the students on their efforts in the "Fall Haul."

The Lemont Goodwill, located at 1146 State St., received nearly 51,000 donated items from students and community members—more than 50 percent more than the total of the second-place school, according to District 210 officials.

While many students, including the school’s Interact organization, provided support during the “Fall Haul,” students in teacher Jessica Hoag’s Work Experiences class spearheaded the school’s efforts, separating donations that were brought to the school and delivering them to Goodwill.

In addition to the concert, Lemont High School also received two iPads for
winning the contest.

“Fall Haul provides a wonderful community service platform for students to learn the benefits of keeping items out of landfills and helping individuals find and keep jobs,” said Pat Boelter, Chief Marketing Officer for Goodwill, a not-for-profit organization that provides employment services for individuals who have disadvantages or disabilities.

Lloyd rose to stardom in her native England thanks to her performances on Season 7 of “The X Factor,” in which she finished fourth. Her debut album, “Sticks and Stones,” reached as high as ninth on the Billboard 200, and her hit single “Want U Back” was certified double platinum after selling more two million copies in the United States.

Due to space limitations, Lloyd’s concert is only open to Lemont High School students.

Goodwill’s mission is to provide training, employment and supportive services for people with disabilities or disadvantages who seek greater independence. Goodwill Industries employs more people with disabilities (28 percent of its workforce) than any other private-sector business in the area.

In 2012, Goodwill provided services to more than 53,000 men and women with disabilities and disadvantages, according to company officials.

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