• Registration is now open for in-person and virtual attendance
• Event aimed at transforming lives of Orange County families and children in need
• One of the top-rated breakfast events in Orange County

Irvine, CA (March 1, 2022) – Orange County United Way will host its annual Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast in person on May 19, 2022 from 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at the Westin South Coast Plaza featuring a special Q&A with Misty Copeland, the first African American female principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre.

Attendees will learn about the growing needs for Orange County’s most vulnerable families and children facing poverty and housing instability, and how Orange County United Way is helping to ensure they can thrive.

The event will also be livestreamed virtually.

“The Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast is something I look forward to each year. Orange County’s most prominent leaders, philanthropists and change makers gather to share their passion for empowering local families, inspire action and work to raise much needed funds for our most vulnerable families and children,” said Susan B. Parks, president and CEO of Orange County United Way and founder of the Women’s Philanthropy Fund. “As these needs continue to grow, so too, does our responsibility to help them thrive. We invite community members to join us for what is sure to be an inspiring and rewarding morning.”

As the event’s celebrity guest, Misty Copeland will participate in a Q&A during the program. Raised in San Pedro, California, Misty began her ballet studies at the late age of thirteen. In August 2015, Misty was promoted to principal dancer of the American Ballet Theater, making her the first African American woman to ever be promoted to the position in the company’s 75-year history. With a passion for giving back, Misty has worked with many charitable organizations and is dedicated to giving her time to work with and mentor young girls and boys.

Dilanthi De Alwis, vice president of finance for UPS West Region, and Melinda Masson, co-founder, and CEO of Lifestyle of Giving, will serve as this year’s Breakfast Co-Chairs.

“I have been a strong supporter of Orange County United Way for many years so when the opportunity came to support unique women’s issues, I immediately became a founder. I have seen first-hand the many outstanding accomplishments the Women’s Philanthropy Fund has made over the years, and the annual Breakfast to me is a “reunion” of like-minded women and men looking to renew our passion and commitment to making a difference uniquely,” said Masson.

“As a longtime supporter and Board member of Orange County United Way, I wanted to get more involved in programs that have a sustainable impact on local communities with a focus on assisting women and children. Attending the Women’s Philanthropy Fund Breakfast and hearing firsthand accounts of how their efforts have changed lives really moved me,” said De Alwis.

UPS and Bank of America are the Champion Sponsors of this year’s Breakfast. These companies are longtime supporters of the Women’s Philanthropy Fund and United Way’s initiatives to create a brighter Orange County.

Interested parties can register for in-person or virtual attendance and submit a question for Misty Copeland at WPFbreakfast.com. The in-person cost to attend is $250 per person. Virtual attendance is free.

If you are not able to join the event, you can still support Orange County United Way’s life-changing initiatives and programs by making a donation at WPFbreakfast.com.

To learn more about the Women’s Philanthropy Fund and Orange County United Way, visit UnitedWayOC.org or contact Jessica Vanderwell at JessicaV@UnitedWayOC.org.

ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY UNITED WAY

Orange County United Way mobilizes our community to create brighter futures for all, today and for generations to come.

True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way is there. Through advocacy, collaboration, and innovative programming, our work is comprehensive and action-oriented, effectively addressing our county’s unique challenges.

From strengthening local resilience to expanding youth opportunity, financial stability, and access to stable housing, we’re working toward an Orange County where everyone has the support they need to reach their full potential.

To learn more visit www.unitedwayoc.org.

Orange County United Way is a standalone, independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

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Media Contact: Annie Noebel, anoebel@cornerstonecomms.com or (949) 449-2527