For Immediate Release

Governor Schwarzenegger Partners with North Valley Community Foundation to Help

(July 7, 2008) Governor Schwarzenegger visited Butte County this morning to lend support to victims of the fire, and reiterate his commitment to public safety. “Public safety is my top priority,” Schwarzenegger said to the local crowd.

The Governor took time to explain the Governor’s support of the local emergency response groups and his gratitude for the outstanding work of the firefighters on the ground. He was accompanied by his Secretary of Service and Volunteering, Karen Baker.

Secretary Baker explained ways in which local individuals and businesses can help. Understanding there are limitations to what can be provided by state government, the Governor’s Office recommends that individuals and businesses make donations to the local entity most able to address local needs, North Valley Community Foundation.

“Secretary Baker called us to discuss the most effective ways in which we can partner. Currently they are working to help raise awareness and encourage state-wide giving to the four funds we have established,” explained Alexa Valavanis, CEO of the North Valley Community Foundation.

“Our hearts go out to the victims of the fire. Our donors responded immediately! One donor in particular contributed $10,000 to elderly victims of the fire. We are so grateful for the Governor’s support and bringing attention to this disaster. The needs of the victims often continue well beyond the containment of the fire.” Valavanis continued, “We will be here with them.”

The funds established at the Community Foundation are earmarked to help victims of the fires, emergency response organizations, American Red Cross and the Animal Disaster Response Group.

For more information regarding the four funds available please visit www.nvcf.org, or call the Community Foundation at 530-891-1150. More information is also available at the California Volunteers website, a program of the Governor’s Office at www.californiavolunteers.org.