In 2008 alone there will be 1 in 8 women nationally who will be diagnosed with breast cancer, 1 in 150 children born will be diagnosed with autism and 40,000 more people will learn they have contracted the HIV infection. With numbers like these, we often feel helpless in what to do to find a cure for diseases and raise awareness for developmental disorders. However, a California based wine company called Hope Wine has developed a unique way to help in the fight against Breast Cancer, Autism and AIDS all year round.

Launched in June, 2007, Hope Wine, which is an 8 person company made up of twentysomethings, was created specifically to help raise money and spread awareness for causes that affect millions around the globe. This charitable wine label donates 50% of its profits towards organizations that have been specifically created to bring attention to Breast Cancer, Autism and AIDS. Hope Wine is bottled exclusively in Sonoma County through its partner, Sonoma Wine, and consists of a Coastal Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Each bottle has a ribbon printed on the label which tells the consumer what cause they are supporting with their purchase. The Chardonnay supports Susan G. Komen for the Cure (breast cancer), Merlot benefits AIDS/Lifecycle and Cabernet Sauvignon is partnered with ACT TODAY! to promote Autism awareness. The award winning wine starts at $13 a bottle.

The 24 year old founder and CEO of Hope Wine, Jacob Kloberdanz, developed the company after discovering that many for-profit companies would team up with non-profit companies to raise funds for only a short time. He wanted to create a company that would be mutually beneficial for an extended period of time to both the for-profit and non-profit organizations. Hope Wine is a year round company that currently sells their products in over 100 locations, such as restaurants like Ruth Chris Steak House and select stores like Whole Foods and Costco, within the state of California. Hope Wine recently expanded to service Southern California, with the goal being to eventually distribute Hope Wine nationally by the end of 2008. If you want to support any of these causes by buying the wine and you do not live in California, the company's website, www.hopewine.com, currently ships wine across the country.

If you think you can't make a difference just by buying wine, take into account this example. Mr. Kloberdanz estimates that if one bottle a month of Hope Wine's Chardonnay is bought by, for or in memory of a quarter of the women diagnosed with breast cancer, 3.5 millions cases will be sold and therefore over 75 million dollars will be raised in the fight against the disease. Isn't that incredible?! If you want to make an impact in the world and you enjoy delicious wine, Hope Wine is the perfect company for you.

We here at Young Hollywood recently had the chance to meet Mr. Kloberdanz and Kristen Senseman, the VP of Public Relations, when they personally delivered their three wines to us. After having the opportunity to try out each one, we will be the first to tell you that they are a must buy for anyone that is a wine lover! Making a difference in the world while relaxing with a great glass of wine at home or in an intimate restaurant .who can ask for more?

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