2008 CNN Hero of the Year, Liz McCartney, Keynotes Orange County United Way’s Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Heroes will be in abundance at Orange County United Way’s 6^th Annual Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast on Friday, May 1, 2009 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Irvine. CNN’s 2008 Hero of the Year, Liz McCartney, will inspire guests and five surprise unsung local heroes will be honored for their commitment to others.

In March 2006, after volunteering to help St. Bernard residents rebuild their lives after Katrina, McCartney co-founded the St. Bernard Project as a means to provide tools and support to these families. In 12 weeks and for about $12,000, the organization can transform a gutted house into a comfortable, safe home for families. So far, about 200 houses have been rebuilt, 30 more are currently under construction and many more are planned. Learn more about the St. Bernard Project.

At the Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast, McCartney will share her remarkable story with the more than 600 anticipated guests. Not on a scheduled speaker’s circuit, McCartney agreed to take a quick break from her work in New Orleans to visit and inspire the women philanthropists in Orange County. Vikki Vargas, Orange County Bureau Chief for NBC-4 Los Angeles will be the event emcee. In addition, five local women and girls will be recognized for their own everyday heroic efforts here in Orange County.

Last year’s breakfast drew more than 500 guests and raised more than $200,000 to support Orange County programs that help women and girls meet their basic needs and provide them with the resources to become self sufficient.

Founded in 2002, Orange County United Way’s Women’s Philanthropy Fund has more than 140 members who each give $10,000 or more per year to Orange County United Way. In the seven years since the Women’s Philanthropy Fund came together, the group has raised more than $8 million to support programs that empower Orange County’s women and young girls.

Individual tickets and sponsorship packages are available. Sponsors include: Owl Foundation, Orange County Business Journal and others. Get complete details at http://wpfbreakfast.kintera.org or by calling (949) 263-6176.

ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY

Orange County United Way focuses on supporting programs providing basic needs for families and individuals in addition to programs and partnerships focused on education and financial stability. By investing in these key areas, Orange County United Way and its community partners are moving people to self sufficiency. Orange County United Way is a local, private, 501 (c) (3). We invite you to Live United. For more information, visit www.unitedwayoc.org.