[Charlotte, NC – November 28, 2018] – The YMCA of Greater Charlotte will welcome an expected 1,100 people to its 25th Annual MLK Holiday Breakfast at the Charlotte Convention Center’s Crown Ballroom on Monday, January 19 at 8:00 a.m.

The keynote speaker for this year’s breakfast is Soledad O’Brien, an award winning journalist, documentarian, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

As the host of the Sunday morning syndicated political show, Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien, Soledad has established herself as one of the most recognized names in broadcasting by telling the stories behind the most important issues, people and events of the day. A champion of diversity, she gives voice to the underserved and disenfranchised through her Emmy-winning reporting and acclaimed documentary series, Black in America and Latino in America. While also the contributing editor, Soledad reports in-depth news magazine pieces for PBS NewsHour and is a correspondent for HBO Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. A prominent philanthropist, Soledad is the founder of PowHERful, a foundation that mentors and funds college tuition and expenses for young women.

On stage, Soledad draws from her life and career to stimulate thoughtful conversation on the roles we each play within our communities and organizations, leaving audiences with memorable takeaways on the power of individuals and companies to make meaningful and lasting change.

"For 25 years, this breakfast has gathered Charlotteans in celebration of diversity and Dr. King’s legacy," says Dena Paulding, McCrorey YMCA executive director. "We are thrilled to hear from Soledad O’Brien this year as we consider how individuals and organizations can take active roles in creating an inclusive community."

Proceeds from the MLK Holiday Breakfast will provide life-transforming programs for youth at the McCrorey YMCA and provide young people the opportunity to participate in teen leadership programs. Founded in 1936 as an African-American YMCA in a segregated nation, the McCrorey YMCA provided opportunities for spiritual growth, learning and leadership development for the black community in Charlotte.

Doors open at 7:30 AM. The program begins at 8:00 AM and is expected to end by 9:30 AM. Tickets are on sale now and available for purchase at the McCrorey YMCA. Limited tickets will be available day of at the Charlotte Convention Center. Corporate sponsorships are also available by contacting Debbie Smith at 704-716-6513 or debbie.smith@ymcacharlotte.org.

About the YMCA of Greater Charlotte

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte, comprised of 19 membership locations and two resident camps, engages approximately 272,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Deeply rooted in the community for over 140 years, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. www.ymcacharlotte.org