In 1946, thousands of Americans came together to support a new charity called CARE. By sending packages of food to Europe for survivors of World War II, these early supporters helped avert famine on the war-torn continent.

Sixty-two years later, CARE is a global organization, reaching 65 million people in more than 71 countries in our fight against poverty. As one of the first large-scale international charities in the United States, we have brought hope and opportunity to countless families and communities around the world.

The Anniversary Celebration

The Anniversary Celebration is an annual commemorative event in Washington, DC, and CARE’s only national fundraiser. Commemorating the sending of the first CARE package in 1946 to Le Havre, France, the event brings together diplomatic, congressional and administration officials, and civic leaders to highlight CARE’s humanitarian work and raise the important funds that make our work possible.

This year's theme, “The Power of Partnerships,” underscores the importance CARE places on working in collaboration with communities to find lasting solutions to poverty. Our work also hinges on the power of people being champions for others: women helping women find their own voices, husbands helping wives realize their untapped potential and supporters like you helping improve education, health and economic opportunities for millions of families and communities around the world.

With exclusive events over the next several months, the 62nd Anniversary Celebration will culminate with the Diplomatic Celebration at the historic residence of the International Chairs, His Excellency Sir Nigel Sheinwald, the British Ambassador, and Lady Sheinwald on Tuesday, June 17, 2008. This formal evening serves to highlight the diplomatic relationships and recognize the individual and corporate philanthropy that make CARE’s work possible. It also serves to honor individuals who have helped bring greater awareness to the global development dialogue. The program will feature the presentation of CARE’s International Humanitarian Award, special honorees and music.

On Thursday, June 19, 2008, dozens of ambassadors will open their doors to welcome CARE guests into their residences for a private dinner. These much-anticipated Embassy Dinners are an opportunity for diplomatic and congressional members, corporate and individual donors, advocates and senior CARE staff to enjoy an intimate evening together in one of Washington’s many historic residences.

This year's Anniversary Celebration Co-Chairs are Dr. George and Rima Bitar. George is the medical director of the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute. Rima is a doctoral candidate in engineering. The Bitars chose to support CARE not only because CARE provided emergency relief to their homeland Lebanon, but also because CARE’s amazing work and global reach represent the incredible spirit of America’s generosity for the world at large. We could not be more thrilled to have this dynamic couple with their warmth and spirit of giving, join us underscore to the importance of partnerships not only within a family, but across the world in the fight against global poverty. Learn more about Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute.

The 62nd Anniversary Celebration

Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Diplomatic Celebration
7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Cocktail Attire
Open to all sponsorship levels

Thursday, June 19, 2008
Embassy Dinners
7:00 - 9:00 p.m
Business Attire
Open to all sponsorship levels

Contact Us
For more information about this event, please contact Oliver Truong at CARE:
p: (202) 595-2819
e: celebration@dc.care.org

Afghanistan
Belgium
Canada
Colombia

Croatia
Denmark
Ecuador
Finland

France
Indonesia
Lichtenstein
Mexico

Monaco
Russian Federation
Singapore

Abbott
Delta Air Lines
Merkle

Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
Maersk Line Limited
Nationwide
ProJet Aviation
Richmond Capital
Target
Weyerhaeuser