Nearly 800 people gathered in Asheville on Thursday, June 11, to hear Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, novelist, social critic and columnist Anna Quindlen and to celebrate the power of the women's philanthropy at The Community Foundation's fifth annual Power of the Purse Luncheon. The event took place at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa and included the announcement of $264,000 in grants.

Visit the Power of the Purse Photo Gallery. View slideshow.

Anna Quindlen’s remarks about women and philanthropy, mothers and daughters and privilege and poverty touched home with the sold-out crowd. Her talent for connecting with an audience was clearly evident and we have had dozens of requests for copies of her comments. You can download a transcript here.

View video highlights of Anna Quindlen's address.

Women for Women had many new members sign up at the 2009 Power of the Purse. If you would like to be part of this powerful giving circle that provides hope to disadvantaged women and girls in Western North Carolina, you can download enrollment materials here that you can print and mail back to CFWNC. As our membership grows, so does our capacity to help.

Watch the new Women for Women video.

From the handmade vases with stunning arrangements to the silent auction featuring local artists, the 2009 Power of the Purse has received rave reviews including:

Anna's message was spot-on and very entertaining. It all combined to make for a wonderful event, and my guests were all profusely thanking me for inviting them.

Anna is such an inspiring speaker. Many of the ladies at our table, including myself were brought to tears at times.

The luncheon was first class.

I am happy to have my name associated to such a wonderful group of people, doing such good things in our surrounding communities.

SAVE THE DATE for next year’s Power of the Purse on May 24, 2010.