LETTER
United Way
In a difficult fundraising year, the residents of Orange County have stepped up to support our community. As United Way organizations reported a national drop of 3% in their campaigns, Orange County United Way was up by 2%.
Support was seen in community and workplace giving, event sponsorship and major gifts. One area of considerable success was United Way’s Women’s Philanthropy Fund, which reached its goal of 100 founding members this year. Members of the fund give $10,000 or more to United Way and have founded the Women’s Empowerment Initiative that supports financial independence for women in Orange County.
The efforts of the Women’s Philanthropy Fund drew national attention from the chair of the board of United Way of America, Dr. Johnnetta Cole, a distinguished educator and humanitarian. Dr. Cole’s recent visit here was an affirmation of the powerful work being done in Orange County to better the health, security and well-being for local children, the elderly and families in need.
I am proud of the leadership provided by the United Way staff and volunteer efforts of our local business leaders who continue to strengthen our United Way and make it possible for us to effectively fund local organizations that provide measurable results.
Maria Chavez Wilcox
President
Orange County United Way
Irvine
