Reba, James Otto and Jason Aldean Are ‘Lifting Lives’

The Academy of Country Music's Lifting Lives program has found a unique way to celebrate women. The charitable arm of the ACM, which shines a spotlight on a different cause each month, is focusing February on a 'Country Cares for Women' theme, with three of Nashville's biggest names -- Reba McEntire, Jason Aldean and James Otto -- helping to promote their efforts.

Reba's charity of choice is Thistle Farms -- a Nashville-based enterprise created by songwriter Marcus Hummon's wife, Becca, which teaches employable skills to women who have faced struggles such as addictions and domestic violence.

Jason and James are both doing their part to raise funds and awareness for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, which is one of the world's leading organizations for breast cancer research. It's a cause that is personally important to both men.

"The reason I support that cause is a good friend of mine passed away of [breast cancer] a few years back," Jason explains to the ACM. "She had two kids, two daughters. If we get a cure for that, it would be something women wouldn't have to worry about. Check it out."

James reveals that he also has a family connection to the deadly disease. "My favorite cause is Susan G. Komen and it's because my family has had a history of breast cancer," says the singer. "I lost my grandmother to breast cancer. My mom beat it because of the amazing research that's being done on behalf of Susan G. Komen. It's something that's near and dear to my heart and always will be."

Last month's focus for Lifting Lives was 'Resolve to Help Your Country,' and included another one of Reba's favorite organizations, the American Red Cross, plus one of Trace Adkins' favorites, the Wounded Warrior Project.

The ACM will also host a special televised concert, 'Girls Night Out: Superstar Women of Country,' with performances by Reba, Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert and Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles. The show, which will tape on April 4, will donate proceeds from the ticket sales to Lifting Lives. Tickets are available for purchase here.

Reba's 'Turn on the Radio' Video