United Way's 14^th Annual Leadership Appreciation Reception took place on May 22, 2007 aboard the Channel Cat luxury catamaran, graciously donated for our use. Leadership and Alexis de Tocqueville donors enjoyed a 2 hour sail in the Santa Barbara Channel, spiced with delicious hors d'oeuvres prepared by Mondial Catering and wine donated by Vina Robles Winery. The event was also partially underwritten by Starbuck Tisdale.

Guests enjoyed the sights, sounds and scents of the sea while they heard first-hand how their donations have changed the lives of children, families and seniors in our community. LuAnn Miller of Isla Vista Youth Projects spoke eloquently about children who would not be where they are without the help of United Way's Partnership programs such as the Pre-Kindergarten Institute and Home Play Learning Kits.

Jim Wolfe, Chair of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society, acknowledged all leadership donors for their role in a successful campaign, which created positive changes in real people's lives in our community. Jim announced the launching of the Alexis de Tocqueville Committee and invited those interested to speak with him about joining. He also described the StepUp Program, whereby Leadership donors can become Alexis de Tocqueville donors immediately by making a 3 year pledge, with smaller gifts in years 1 and 2, with the last year at the Tocqueville level of $10,000. Jim's wife Marcia Wolfe shared stories about the couple's experience at the annual United Way Tocqueville Leaders Weekend, where they learned about the impact major donors are having nationally.

Paul Didier, President & CEO of United Way, described some stunning results from Fun in the Sun, a summer reading and recreation program for low income children, that raised the reading levels of 76% of the children by 12% last summer.

David and Cris Prichard, co-chairs of Leadership Circle, thanked everyone and told those gathered that the Leadership Circle Committee is full of great plans for this coming year. They invited those interested in participating on the Committee to contact one of them through United Way.

United Way gratefully acknowledges the generosity of its Leadership and Alexis de Tocqueville donors. Leadership donors are those who make gifts of $1,000 and up and Alexis de Tocqueville donors are those who make gifts of $10,000 and up. We couldn't do it without you! For more information, please contact Patricia Schwartz at 956-8591 ext.108.