A Note from Our Development Director

May 2008

Worldfund is welcomed in Miami at two high-level events

On Saturday, April 5, LatinFinance celebrated its 20th Anniversary with a Gala dinner at which Worldfund was recognized as the philanthropy of choice.  Nearly 300 guests, all involved one way or another with Latin America, were present and heard Luanne Zurlo speak briefly about our mission as well as view the premiere of the Worldfund video [now available online at www.worldfund.org].  A silent and live auction, led by famed auctioneer Archduke Dr. Geza von Habsburg, benefited Worldfund programs; we are grateful to all of our donors and bidders.  At the Worldfund table, kindly donated by LatinFinance, Luanne Zurlo was joined by Education Leadership Council founding members, Gov. and Mrs. Jeb Bush.

Archduke Geza von Habsburg auctions a painting for Worldfund at the LatinFinance 20th Anniversary Gala

On Monday, April 7, Worldfund was also recognized as the philanthropy of choice at the U.S. Governor's Dinner comprising part of the IDB Annual Meeting. Nearly 450 people attended the dinner comprising of senior U.S. and Latin American government officials, senior private sector representatives, and press and NGO officials.  Luanne Zurlo once again spoke on behalf of Worldfund and thanked US Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson for the honor as well as outlined Worldfund's strategic plan for the future.  Jorge Arrizurieta, Chair, Host Committee for the IDB Annual Meeting, presented Luanne with a donation for Worldfund from the IDB.

Worldfund's Education Leadership Award Dinner and Gala

Worldfund's fourth annual Education Leadership Award Dinner and Gala is fast approaching in early June, and will once again honor two persons for their outstanding leadership in education philanthropy and in business.  We are pleased to honor Jose Sergio Gabrielli, Chairman and President of Brazil's Petrobras, and Steve Shindler, Chairman of NII Holdings, Inc.

To date, close to 440 people have confirmed their attendance at our gala at what promises to be an evening spent celebrating Worldfund's mission and your involvement as keen supporters of what we do.  We also look forward to celebrating the vast contributions of Mr. Gabrielli and Mr. Shindler and to hearing their personal story.  A young Brazilian student will also join us and share with us first-hand his story and the impact Worldfund has had on his life.

Additionally, on Tuesday, June 10th, Worldfund will ring the NASDAQ opening bell.  You can watch it live on the internet at www.nasdaq.com.