Country music sensation Carrie Underwood received a great honour this weekend—by being inducted to the Grand Ole Opry.

The “American Idol” season four winner made her debut on the television program in 2005 and told the sold-out crowd, “this really seems like a great family to be part of. I promise I’ll do everything I possibly can to not make you regret it.”

Opry member and country music star, Garth Brooks, presented Underwood with the prestigious award telling her, “Nothing will last as long or be more important than this award right here tonight. Congratulations.” Opry only accepts members through invite and it is based on the artist’s commitment to the show and overall contribution to country music.

Underwood, 25, is the current Female Vocalist of the Year for the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association, and is also currently headlining her Carnival Ride tour.

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Country music’s biggest stars will stage a special concert at the Grand Ole Opry House as the entertainment industry continues to raise funds for the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

“Country Reaches Out: An Opry Benefit for the American Red Cross” will be broadcast live and commercial free on Sept. 27 at 9 p.m. EST on the Great American Country (GAC) network. Simulcasts can be seen on the DIY and Fine Living networks and heard on the Nashville radio station WSM, Sirius Satellite Radio and at www.opry.com.

Performers will urge viewers to make contributions to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which will help those caught in Hurricane Katrina’s wake throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. Profits from the show’s ticket sales will also go to the Red Cross.

“Country music, in particular, is a powerful and unifying force that inspires individuals to action and initiates the process of healing in times of personal tragedy, or national crisis,” said Ed Hardy, president of Great American Country. “It is our hope that the national television audience tuning in for the simulcast of this special Opry event on GAC, DIY and Fine Living will be moved to action in support of hurricane relief.”

Some of the biggest talents in country will appear on the benefit show including Alan Jackson, Alison Krauss, Keith Urban, Craig Morgan, Julie Roberts and Billy Currington. Additional country artists are expected to sign on before the concert.

“Without fail, country music and its fans show compassion and support for those in need,” said Colin Reed, chairman and CEO of Gaylord Entertainment, the Opry’s parent company. “The Opry is the heart and home of country music, and the Opry family, its employees and artists alike, wants to do everything it can to make sure country’s heart is extended to our neighbors who have suffered such unspeakable losses this week.”

Additionally, the Grand Ole Opry and GAC are planning to host an online auction of country music memorabilia at opry.com and gactv.com. GAC is also producing a series of public service announcements featuring artists and network personalities pleading for donations to the hurricane relief effort.

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