Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons Support GEANCO Foundation's Hospital Project

Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou, his wife, the fashion model and author Kimora Lee Simmons and American Idol finalist Syesha Mercado were at a benefit organized by the GEANCO Foundation at on Ventura Boulevard in Encino Friday night.

The event was held to raise awareness and funds for the GEANCO Foundation, and its mission "to save and improve the lives of the poor and vulnerable in Nigeria." GEANCO is currently developing a world-class hospital in Nigeria, according to a press release issued by the Foundation.

GEANCO was founded by Godwin Onyema, who was born in Nigeria but left to pursue a medical career in the United States. He started GEANCO in 2005 to give back to his country of birth. According to press material, "GEANCO" is a compilation of the initials of his family members' names. He now runs the organization with his son, Afam Onyema.

Later this year, GEANCO plans to spearhead a medical mission to perform hip and knee replacements in adults and repair spine deformities in children.

Guests enjoyed a country-style dinner buffet and live jazz music and festivities continued into the night.