Season 2 runner-up and UNICEF Ambassador Clay Aiken is spending time in Mexico to help raise funds for those affected by recent flooding, the most destructive in some regions in the past 50 years. UNICEF estimates that 70% of the schools and all of the crops in the city of Tabasco, where Clay will be spending much of his time, have been damaged by the recent disaster.

Clay and his family are foregoing their own holiday vacation to spend time with affected families in hopes of spreading some holiday cheer in the affected areas. As a UNICEF Ambassador, this international trip is not Clay's first humanitarian effort. Over the past three years, Clay has spent time in Afghanistan, Uganda, and Indonesia on behalf of the organization. With particular focus on families affected by respective situations in each country, Clay's help and hands-on experiences within the regions has helped to raise tens of thousands of dollars for humanitarian causes around the world.

On Christmas Day, Clay wrote about his experience in Mexico, "Yesterday we were privileged to travel with the First Lady of Chiapas to the mountain village of Ostuácan. People here were severely affected by the recent flooding and mudslides. In fact, more than 2,000 people, many of whom are children, have lost their homes and are celebrating Christmas in shelters this year. But, they rolled out the red carpet for us and we celebrated the holiday together singing Jingle Bells and other holiday songs and even taking a whack at a piñata (and, believe it or not, I didn't hit anyone!)."

Hopeful that his involvement will help raise $100,000 through UNICEF's website before the end of 2007, Clay's presence in Mexico is undoubtedly a bright spot in what has been a difficult time for the people of Tabasco and Chiapas, Mexico.

Best of luck to Clay as he continues his international humanitarian efforts! He has come a long way since becoming one of American Idol's best known finalists back in Season 2. Check out this picture of Clay and the gang from Season 2 hanging out with Ryan Seacrest! Clay joins a gaggle of other American Idol finalists that have been helping out in different communities after they have left the Idol stage. Join MyIdol and get in on the discussion in our forums!