The 9th annual Power of the Purse event was hosted virtually this year. The Power of the Purse is the biggest event of the year for Women United, an initiative of United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley. Close to 300 people registered for the virtual event.

Women United is a network of dynamic women leaders who engage the community through the works and programs of United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley. Their mission is to mobilize the power of women to advance the common good in the community.

Women United member Susan Wiggins was the emcee again this year. Proceeds from this event benefit the Women United’s signature initiatives. This includes “Wear One Bring One,” in which undergarments are collected for women in need and distributed to United Way community partners. Last year, nearly 2,800 undergarments were donated as a result of the luncheon, and several thousand dollars were donated by attendees to fund an undergarment voucher program and the Women United Scholarship. We will not be gathering in person, but there will still be an opportunity for you to “Bring One”! We will be holding an Undergarment Parade to make your donations. The day after the luncheon on October 30th, The United Way parking lot will be set up for a drive thru drop off from 8:00am-9:00am and 4:00pm-5:0pm. No need for you to leave your car, Women United Advisory Board Members and volunteers will be there to take your donations of undergarment items for women and girls in our community.

A Women United Scholarship recipient will be featured at the event. The scholarship funds higher education for women who utilize the services of a United Way community partner. This year’s Women United Scholarship recipient is Shirlene Brunson.

Shirlene Brunson

Clinical Medical Assisting Certification

Featured speaker, Vera Jones, is a Motivational Speaker, Professional Development Trainer, Author, Award-Winning Television and Radio Broadcaster. She brought energy and inspiration with her personal stories of growing up and being a single mother of a son with special needs. Real Woman, Real Adversity, Real Victory and Inspiration!

Tammy Briggs with Aflac, the Women United Power of the Purse Volunteer Chair, said “Each year the Power of the Purse brings women across the Chattahoochee Valley together in support of one another. While this year, looks different and has its own unique challenges, the focus is the same, “Women Helping Women”. Our Women United volunteers have been inspiring in their work this year while recognizing that needs in our community are greater than ever. We’re looking forward to another great Power of the Purse and helping to meet some of those essential needs of women and girls in our community.”