The Avon Foundation for Women recently held its annual charity dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street. Actor Reese Witherspoon was one of the hosts of the event.
I had started working with children's charities a few years ago and realized in that work that the best way to help children is to help woman, empower women," said Witherspoon. "The first company that really approached me about being involved in initiatives for women was Avon, and I was just thrilled to be a part of the company because I think philanthropically they are so committed to issues that are foremost on women's minds."
Andrea Jung, Avon's Chairman and CEO was the other host.
"The Avon Foundation for Women is a 501c charity that again under the umbrella of Avon Products Company is our way to give back to women all around the world," said Jung. "We've raised $725 million for the fight against breast cancer primarily as well as to eradicate domestic violence."
Courtney Cox of ABC's "Cougar Town" was one of the many women who supported the cause.
George Whipple: There are more women here supporting this event, there's one man. You think it's the right thing to do, for women to turn out for women's charitable events?
Cox: Of course it's really important. Is there really only one man?
Whipple: Patrick [Dempsey].
Cox: Well, I can take my makeup off. No

AVON Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade

The mission of the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade is to raise funds and awareness for advancing access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer, with a focus on the medically underserved. From its launch in 1992 through 2007, the multi-faceted initiatives of the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade have raised and awarded more than $525 million to the breast cancer cause worldwide. Funding is awarded to five areas: breast cancer education and awareness, screening and diagnosis, access to treatment, support services and scientific research. Avon now supports programs for breast cancer in some 50 countries around the world.

Knowing that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, the goal of the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade is to benefit all women. However, there is special emphasis on reaching medically underserved women, including low-income, elderly and minority women, and women without adequate health insurance. Reversing historical disparities in breast cancer care is a priority of the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade.