Thank you to everybody who took part in this year's International Tom Hanks Day. Your generous efforts helped this become the best ITHD since it started eight years ago and, importantly, raise the most money ever.

A big thanks to Kevin Turk - the man who started it all. If it were not for him, this day wouldn't be the big success it is.

This year's proceeds will go towards Lifeline Energy's projects in sub-Saharan Africa. This includes providing lights to school children in a Nairobi slum in Kenya. Lifeline Energy has been providing solar-powered and wind-up lights since 2009 to help children safely study at night and cut down on the use of dangerous kerosene and candles.

If you would like additional information on Lifeline Energy, please "Like" us on Facebook.

Below are some of the highlights of this year's festivities. These include a Forrest Gump look-alike, a grill personally signed by Tom Hanks and some inventive drinks. Or click here for a video tutorial of how to create a special Tom Hanks-inspired Taco.

We sincerely appreciate your contribution and support of our important work.

The Lifeline Energy Team

(From left: Kevin Turk with a memorable Forrest Gump look-alike; the auction room at the Fizz Bar & Grill in Chicago)

(The winner of an auctioned George Forman Grill signed by Tom Hanks)

(From left: Bosom Buddies; Joe vs The Volcano; The Wilson)