On October 30, 2018, WOMEN UNITED hosted its 2nd Annual Leadership Breakfast in celebration of women leading in business and philanthropy. The event was also serve as a call to action for women and all members of our community to create positive change through sharing their time, talent, and treasure.
Our guest speaker this year was Lisa Ling, executive producer and host of CNN’s This is Life, a leader, and philanthropist who spoke on the impact and success of women who lead and inspire change.
Women united is an affinity group within the United Way of the Big Bend, comprised of women leadership givers* who are passionate and committed to the work of the United Way. Originating in 2005, the group has grown to become an influential force of women philanthropists who give, advocate, and volunteer to impact the lives of women and children throughout the Big Bend.
Women throughout our community are brought together to flex their philanthropic muscles, improving the lives of children and families. Women United spearheads two critical fundraising events each year. The Women’s Leadership Breakfast brings in top national speakers for an inspirational breakfast. Dress Down & Dine is a fun girls’ night out for a cause, benefiting early childhood education.
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Experience the power of uniting for a cause by attending a Women United event. Join us to organize a Women United event, partner with us to help address critical needs in the community through the Small Business Partnership Program, or explore the many other ways to invest in UWBB with you time, talents, and treasure.
Michelle Ubben, 2018 Women United Chair
Mckenzie Burleigh Lohbeck, Women’s Leadership Breakfast Chair
Dena Sokolow, Dress Down & Dine Co-Chair
Michel Gregory, Dress Down & Dine Co-Chair
Tracey Cohen, Small Business Partnership Chair
Women United Founder: Susie Busch-Transou
WU Chairs:
Michelle Ubben – 2018
Karen Walker – 2017
Diana Cureton – 2016
Flecia Braswell – 2015
Tanya Wilkins – 2014
Nan O’Kelley – 2013
Brooke Hallock – 2012
Mia McKown – 2011
Monesia Brown – 2010
Karen Walker – 2009
Liza McFadden – 2008
Robin Safley – 2007
Martha Barnett – 2006
If you are interested in becoming a Women United member, please contact Molly Lord at molly@uwbb.org.
Throughout the year, Women United raises money for early literacy efforts. WU focuses on early literacy in the community with the vision of getting kids reading on grade level before they reach third grade. WU members host a one-of-a-kind kickoff event and numerous parties at local businesses to raise awareness and money for UWBB’s Education Initiative. These events help fund and support evidence-based programs, ReadingPals, and READ UNITED.
ReadingPals focuses on intervention and reading readiness. Caring adults are matched one-to-one with a student who has been identified as a struggling reader. Using a developed curriculum, ReadingPals commit one hour a week for the school year to read to the same child and work on literacy skills. Each student takes home a brand new free book every week.
This year on March 25-29th, UWBB’s ninth annual READ UNITED initiative will provide volunteers an opportunity to share the love of reading with thousands of first grade students in the Big Bend region. The Cat in the Hat, Curious George, and many other childhood favorites will be read and distributed to every first grade student, resulting in countless smiles and widespread inspiration for reading. Sign up to be a volunteer today!
