Reese Witherspoon

Oscar-winning actress Reese Witherspoon heeded¹ Avon's call on Wednesday to become the direct-sale cosmetics² company's first ever "Global Ambassador."

Her duties include acting³ as a spokeswoman for Avon's cosmetics and its army of sales representatives. She will also be the honorary chairwoman of the Avon Foundation that focuses on such issues as breast cancer and domestic abuse.

"As a woman and a mother I care deeply about the well being of other women and children throughout the world and through the years, I have always looked for opportunities to make a difference," said Witherspoon, who has two children by ex- husband, actor Ryan Phillippe.

In a brief interview with Reuters after her news conference, she said she got involved because Avon has a real interest in helping⁴ women across the world.

"I tried to do the best with balancing work and family. My children are the biggest priority in my life," said the actress who filed for divorce from Phillippe last November after seven years of marriage.

Witherspoon, who won the 2005 Oscar for best actress for her portrayal⁵ of June Carter Cash in "Walk the line," signed a multi-year agreement, but her compensation was not disclosed.

In addition to her other duties, Witherspoon will also be involved in product development initiatives, and appear globally in Avon advertising⁶, web sites and in the company's brochures.