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NAPLES, FL (November 2007) – Nine individuals and businesses from Southwest Florida will be honored for their selflessness and goodwill at an unforgettable benefit luncheon in recognition of National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15, 2007. Winners of the 2007 Outstanding Philanthropist title include Chico’s, outstanding large business; Preferred Travel, outstanding small business; Bonita Bay Residents, outstanding volunteer fundraisers; Jim & Linda Malone, outstanding philanthropic fundraisers; Berne Davis, outstanding philanthropist in Lee County; Jay & Patty Baker, outstanding philanthropists in Collier County; and Primitivo Garza, outstanding youth. “It is hoped that the giving spirit of the awardees will inspire other individuals and organizations and spread the impact of community giving,” said Mary George, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Collier County. “It’s our chance to step into the spotlight for a brief moment and remind our communities, our society and the world that the spirit of giving is alive and well.” A committee comprised of local community leaders solicited nominations from more than 500 businesses, organizations and individuals to identify those in Southwest Florida who have supported philanthropic endeavors with their time, talents and treasures. Six categories were established, and these businesses and individuals have been selected as guests of honor at the “Honored to Give” luncheon event to be held Thursday, Nov. 15, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs. “The caliber of the nominees was humbling, and made the selection all the more difficult,” said Dr. Julia I. East, president and CEO of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. “We are blessed to have so many philanthropically minded people helping us create an even better tomorrow.” The local Advisory Board of Trustees is comprised of Mary George, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Collier County; Dr. Julia I. East, president and CEO of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation; Dr. Barbara Tarka Leonard, president of the Association Fundraising Professionals (Naples Chapter); and Lynne Groth, publisher, Gulfshore Life. Rena Arellano, Rebecca Loveridge and Myra Williams also serve on the planning committee. All of the 2007 Philanthropists of the Year are profiled in the annual issue of Gulfshore Life’s Charity Register. The event is presented by the Community Foundation of Collier County, Southwest Florida Community Foundation, the Association of Fund Raising Professionals (Naples Chapter), and hosted by Gulfshore Life. The event benefits the Outstanding Youth Scholarship Fund. Tickets for the event are $90 per person, and $900 for a table of 10. Seating is limited. For more information or for tickets, please contact Rena Arellano at (239) 449-4130 or RenaA@GulfshoreLife.com. **We invite the media to cover the event and interview the winners before the awards ceremony. A special press room will be available for interviews. To coordinate, please contact Rebecca Loveridge at (239) 449-4154 or RebeccaL@GulfshoreLife.com. About National Philanthropy Day National Philanthropy Day is the special day set aside to recognize and pay tribute to the great contributions that philanthropy—and those people active in the philanthropic community—have made to our lives, our communities and our world. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of this special day. In 2007, more than 125 communities and 50,000 people around the world will participate in National Philanthropy Day® events and celebrations. These events include award ceremonies, galas, luncheons, seminars and other special events. Many chapters honor outstanding donors, volunteers, corporations, foundations, small businesses, youth in philanthropy and others in their local community who are making a difference everyday. For more information, visit www.nationalphilanthropyday.org. About Gulfshore Life For 38 years, Gulfshore Life magazine has captured the vibrant spirit, style and natural beauty of Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, from Fort Myers and Cape Coral down to Naples and Marco Island. Its coverage of local personalities and pursuits, from arts and entertainment to fashion, real estate and the luxury lifestyle, helps residents and visitors enjoy the best of the region. Deeply involved in the local community, Gulfshore Life is committed to highlighting and preserving the unique character and resources of our region, and partners with local charitable, cultural and business organizations in a variety of ways. Gulfshore Life has hosted National Philanthropy Day in Southwest Florida since its inception in 2003. For more information, visit www.gulfshorelife.com.
For More Information Contact:
Rebecca Loveridge, Marketing Manager
Curtco/GSM, LLC.
Tel: (239) 449-4154
Email: rebeccal@gulfshorelife.com
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