United Way of Central Missouri’s Women United committee hosted its sixth annual—and successful—Power of the Purse fundraiser in November at the Jefferson City Country Club. This event brought together nearly 300 community-minded women who are passionate…not only about purses, but about the bigger message beyond the gorgeous Michael Kors, Coach and Stuart Weitzman handbags…joining in the fight for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of every person in our community.
Thanks to the generosity of community supporters, the event offered over one hundred purses for the silent and live auction, mystery jewelry boxes, permanent jewelry linking, a variety of quality wine selections in the wine pull and Women United t-shirts. Purses ranged from vintage collectibles to brand name favorites, and thirteen selective purses were elevated from silent auction to live auction status.
It was a perfect evening that concluded with local celebrity gentlemen modeling the live auction purses that had unique experiences tucked inside…experiences such as a Brewer’s Experience inside Last Flight Brewery, Indy 500 tickets, a weekend stay in Eureka Springs with restaurant gift cards and a spa experience, and a New Year’s Eve weekend in Kansas City; complete with hotel stay, restaurant gift cards and tickets to the Chiefs vs. Broncos game.
Our accolades to the ladies who vision and dedication saw the Power of the Purse to a successful $58,000+ conclusion—a record amount in Power of the Purse history! Thank you to planning extraordinaires Vicki Myers and Ashley Wilde, and their host committee comprised of talented, creative and compassionate women! And a special thank you to our two emcees, Doug Otto and Kyle Shimmens!
Power of the Purse was created to provide an avenue for women to get more involved with the United Way at a community level. The United Way needs passionate women—because in truly great communities like ours, we take care of each other! Power of the Purse is one example of the type of events and networking opportunities that is available through United Way of Central Missouri’s affinity group: Women United.
Women United is an opportunity for women of all ages, backgrounds and skills sets to come together to help children, families and seniors in need through volunteering, advocating and special-event fundraising.
If you are interested in being a part of this dynamic, philanthropic group please visit www.unitedwaycemo.org/womenunited to learn more and sign up.
