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.