The Backstreet Boys selected Special Olympics as their charity of choice for their first concert in Beijing on Sept 24, 2004. The band and their promoter, Emma Entertainment, donated a portion of ticket sales to Special Olympics International, which will use the funds to support local programs in Beijing. A block of tickets to the concert was also donated to Special Olympics athletes and families. At the press conference on Sept 22, 2004, Special Olympics China athletes Judy Yang and Xin Yue thanked the Backstreet Boys and presented them with Special Olympics Unified Sports T-shirts and baseball caps. Band member Brian Littrell put the Special Olympics t-shirt on and wore it for the remainder of the press conference. In response to a reporter's question, Howie D said "We are delighted to support Special Olympics, they are near and dear to our heart." Special Olympics athlete Judy Yang also got to participate in the Q&A session of the press conference and asked the Backstreet Boys about their interest in martial arts! The support of the Backstreet Boys is raising awareness amongst Chinese youth about Special Olympics programs in China. In addition, Special Olympics footage was shown on jumbo-trons prior to the start of their concert in Beijing.