<p> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information contact: Tina Bronson, Director of Development Work: 602-258-0990, Ext. # 16 Email: [email protected]</p><p>YWCA Hosts Kathleen Kennedy Townsend</p><p>PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 25, 2006)… YWCA of Maricopa County announced today that Kathleen Kennedy Townsend will address the Women Taking Power </p><p>Seriously Luncheon on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at The Arizona Biltmore in </p><p>Phoenix. The event is open to the public. A VIP Reception will be held from 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.</p><p>Kathleen Kennedy Townsend is former Lt. Governor of Maryland, a child advocate, and daughter of Robert F. Kennedy. Townsend offers a historic overview of women’s search for power, and how their ambition has often been criticized. She addresses the challenges young women continue to face today, and shows how to identify and overcome them. In a humorous, entertaining, and above all inspiring manner,</p><p>Townsend offers valuable, useful insights based on her personal experiences in “a man’s world”.</p><p>The luncheon is from 11:30a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Table sponsorships are $700; individual tickets for the VIP Reception and Luncheon are $120; tickets for the luncheon only are $70. Purchase tickets by phone by calling the YWCA at (602) 258-0990 or online at www.ywca.org/maricopacounty.</p><p>Due to the expected interest in Ms. Kennedy Townsend’s appearance, it is suggested that reservations be made immediately. Large groups or corporate sponsors </p><p>-- MORE -- Page 2 – YWCA – are asked to contact Tina Bronson, Director of Development, YWCA of Maricopa County at 602-258-0990 directly to ensure appropriate recognition.</p><p>This the first in a series of speakers the YWCA is planning on hosting throughout </p><p>2006-2007. Speakers will be focusing on topics such as: a women’s search for power; religious tolerance and sensitivity; gender, race, and wage issues; healing after domestic violence; and elimination of discrimination and racial tolerance.</p><p>For more information about the Women Taking Power Seriously Luncheon or </p><p>YWCA programs visit www.ywca.org/maricopacounty or call (602)258-0990. </p><p>###</p><p>For over 92 years, the YWCA of Maricopa County has served the community through a variety of programs including advocating for positive change benefiting children, empowering women and girls, economic advancement, racial justice and eliminating racism; The Thunderbirds Haven House, a transitional shelter for abused or homeless women and their children; hot meals, recreation and social programs for low-income seniors; and home-delivered meals for impoverished elderly, and disabled adults and veteran.</p>