With a mission to build stronger , healthier and more compassionate communities , United Way California Capital Region first realized the powerful force of women working together when it formed its Women United action group 20 years ago with 35 members , then known as Women in Philanthropy , to prepare local foster youth for a successful transition to independence so they would not experience poverty as adults .
Women United has since grown to 250 women , leveraging their passions , ideas , expertise and resources . Since its inception 20 years ago , Women United has raised $ 2 million for United Way California Capital Region ’ s foster youth programs . Since 2011 , the group has helped nearly 1,500 foster youth open bank accounts called Individual Development Accounts that include matching funds when they leave the foster care system . Women United is now part of a global United Way network of more than 75,000 women taking action and impacting change .
On Mar . 25 , all nine of the local United Way ’ s women in leadership will mark the 20th anniversary of Women United at the Croatian American Cultural Center in Sacramento for the 20th Annual Women United Luncheon . At the event , influential professional women from across the state will gather to raise awareness and funds to support local foster youth aging out of the foster care system . All proceeds from the event will benefit the local United Way ’ s work with foster youth .
Gathering during Women ’ s History Month , the 200 expected guests will hear from foster youth as they share their stories and plans for the future — many of them girls ready to make their own mark on the world . The women leaders of United Way will be listening and ready to guide them .
For more information : YourLocalUnitedWay . org
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