First Coast Register August/September 2015 | Page 13

The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation
announced last week that former World No. 1 tennis
champion Chris Evert will be the featured speaker at
this year’s Current/Sherman Group of Merrill Lynch
Champions for Children Gala.
“Chris’ first appearance at the Gala was in 1997
and we are so pleased that she has chosen to return
to support us at our 19th event,” said MWYF Founder
and Ponte Vedra Beach resident MaliVai Washington.
“Chis’ work ethic and accomplishments both on
and off the court make her a great example for our
students.”
During her career, Evert won 18 Grand Slam titles
and appeared in either the finals or semifinals in 52
of her 56 Grand Slam appearances. Evert’s career
highlights include holding the No. 1 rank in the
world for seven years, being the first player to win
1,000 singles matches and having a .904 win average
during her 17 year career.
In addition to her accomplishments on the court,
Evert has been involved in many philanthropic
endeavors. She founded Chris Evert Charities, Inc. in
1989, which helps at risk children due to drug abuse
and alcohol addiction. Since 1989, her efforts have
raised over $21.9 million to combat substance abuse
and to help neglected, drug-exposed and abused
children. She also opened the Evert Tennis Academy
in Boca Raton, Fla. in March of 1996. Evert also serves
on the board of several nonprofit organizations.
This year’s Gala will take place on Thursday, Oct. 15
at the