GOODWILL OF ORANGE COUNTY RAISES OVER $425,000 FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND OTHER BARRIERS

Santa Ana, CA -- On Thursday, May 18, 2006 Goodwill of Orange County hosted its inaugural Working For Independence Fundraising Luncheon at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa. The luncheon was prompt, starting precisely at twelve noon and finishing 51 minutes later, and made a powerful impact on its guests. "It was the best fundraising luncheon I have attended. You started on time. You ended on time. Do it again next year!" was one of the many positive comments received from guests.

The luncheon was comprised of local businessmen and women, totaling 197 people. Everyone in attendance was invited to make a one-time gift or pledge to Goodwill at the end of the luncheon. Goodwill received an overwhelming response and a recorded a record of over $425,000 (gross) in cash and pledges that will go to support our mission.

Goodwill of Orange County is a nonprofit organization with is Main Campus located at 410 North Fairview in Santa Ana. Now in its 82nd year, Goodwill of Orange County has provided thousands of people with disabilities and other barriers the opportunity to achieve their highest levels of personal and economic independence through competitive employment.

For more information on Goodwill of Orange County and its education, training and employment programs and services, please contact Anne Blasius, Communications Manager at (714) 547-6308 ext. 308 or anneb@ocgoodwill.org.

Information may also be found at www.ocgoodwill.org

--- GOODWILL OF ORANGE COUNTY---