FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 9, 2010

Contact: Jim Leddy · (707) 565-2190
jleddy@sonoma-county.org

Board Of Supervisors Praises Local Businesses Charity

Board Receives First Ever Local Philanthropy Report

SANTA ROSA, Calif. - The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors accepted the first ever local Business Philanthropy Report. Produced by the Sonoma County Economic Development Board, the report highlights the strong participation rate of local businesses and their employees in giving. 86% of businesses respondents donate to local charities as well as 58% of local employees.

Board of Supervisors Chair Valerie Brown said "This Report highlights one of the greatest strengths of our community - our commitment to each other. Businesses and service clubs clearly demonstrate through their philanthropy we can work together to support community needs. It shows what businesses can be doing to support community activities. We are so thankful for their generosity even in such difficult times and appreciates the commitment shown to education and our youth."

The main recipients of local business charity have been education and youth services. Ben Stone, Executive Director of the Economic Development Board commented: "This represents local businesses focus on investing in our community's future." This is the first publication of the report and the EDB will gather additional data in future publications.

The full report is available at http://www.sonomaedb.org

The County of Sonoma is comprised of 26 departments and agencies that provide a full range of services to the community. It encompasses over 1600 square miles and is home to more than 475,000 residents. Sonoma County government has a history of providing excellent and responsive public service while operating under sound fiscal principles. Located less than one hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma County combines in one location the beautiful Pacific coastline, award-winning wineries, majestic redwoods, historic towns, fine dining, and a wide variety of entertainment and cultural activities.