CHARLESTON , SC (February 11, 2008) – Throughout its storied history, the Family Circle Cup has focused on championing the efforts of women professional tennis players by providing them with a platform to showcase their talent.  Over the past 35 years, the Family Circle Cup has demonstrated that same devotion and commitment to helping and inspiring women at every stage of their lives.  Since 2001, the Family Circle Cup Community Outreach Program has helped numerous charitable organizations throughout the Charleston area create awareness and raise money.  In 2006, the Family Circle Cup chose the Center for Women as its charity of choice, and for the third consecutive year, this important organization has once again been selected as the tournament’s official charity.  During the tournament, the Center for Women will have a presence on-site and hold specific promotions and events to help raise funds for the important services they provide for women in the tri-county area.  The 2008 Family Circle Cup’s 35^th anniversary celebration is scheduled April 12^th - 20^th at the Family Circle Tennis Center in Charleston , SC. 

“The Center for Women’s commitment to helping women succeed throughout every phase of their lives reflects our organization’s philosophies and practices, and we’re very excited to have them return as our official charity partner,” commented Robin Reynolds, Family Circle Cup Tournament Director.  “They make such a positive impact in the lives of women on a year-round basis and we are honored to work side by side with an organization that focuses on helping women achieve their goals in life.”   

The Center for Women is the only comprehensive women's resource and development center in South Carolina , and its mission is to help women succeed every day, both personally and professionally. Established in 1990, the Center has reached over 70,000 women in the Lowcountry through educational programs, development seminars, counseling, referrals and support groups. Oprah Winfrey recognized the organization in 2006 with a $25,000 grant from Oprah’s Angel Network.  For more info on the Center For Women, visit their official web site at www.c4women.org. 

The 2008 Family Circle Cup will be held April 12th - 20th at the Family Circle Tennis Center in Charleston , South Carolina . The Family Circle Tennis Center is a public facility owned by the City of Charleston and operated by Family Circle Magazine that hosts a variety of events including concerts, festivals, tennis events and other special activities throughout the year.  With over 21 million readers, Family Circle is one of the most widely read monthly magazines in America and is one of 14 leading subscription magazines owned by Meredith Corporation. The Tennis Center features a 10,200 seat stadium, a Grand Lawn, 17 tennis courts lighted for night play, a racquet club featuring a full service pro shop, and locker room facilities.  Ticket packages, individual session tickets, business hospitality options, and sponsorship opportunities are now available.  For more information on the Family Circle Cup or Tennis Center , please call (843) 856-7900 or visit us at www.familycirclecup.com.