Women United

Women United Logo

Women United is a diverse, powerful and passionate network of women who influence positive change in our community through focused investment of time, talent, and resources. Women United members are a unique, driven, and diverse leadership community.

On a Mission, Igniting Change
Founded in 2018, United Way of Greater New Bedford’s Women United initiative focuses on igniting positive change in the areas of early childhood development and literacy through programs, initiatives, and collaborations.

Research shows that the early years of childhood are critical for establishing social/emotional skills, communication skills, and other foundational skills for school and life success.  For every $1 invested in early learning, research shows, there is a $4 to $9 return on that investment in the form of reduced special education costs, graduation success, increased earnings (and tax revenue) as well as reduced welfare and crime costs. Early learning experiences, often with a parent or caregiver, are critical to developing these skills.

Women United leaders and members work with and through community collaborators, local and regional stakeholders, area business leaders, and early childhood development partners to support and develop programs and initiatives to support this important work. Strategic directions for our Women United initiative is led by our Women United Leadership Council.

Women United Leadership Council
Women United Leadership Council (WULC) is an advisory body providing leadership and strategic recommendations to United Way of Greater New Bedford’s Women United initiative. The WULC works to foster participation, commitment and growth of philanthropic-focused women in furthering United Way’s mission and Women United initiatives.

Women United Network
Women United members donate $1,000 or more annually to United Way.
 
Being part of Women United provides opportunities for:

  • Belonging to a community of like-minded women
  • On-going involvement through volunteer opportunities
  • Networking at fun and engaging member-only events
  • Investment in impact-focused and collaborative community efforts supporting women and children
  • Collaborating with business and community leaders
  • Special recognition at Women United signature event, Power of the Purse
  • Opportunity to join and participate in Women United committees

Donations can be made by check, credit card, payroll deduction through workplace giving, stock transfer, or qualified IRA charitable distribution.

Membership Step-Up Program
Women United offers a membership option known as the Step-Up program for new members. Step-Up members make a three-year commitment and are recognized as members starting in year one. To learn more or join, contact Paula at 508-994-9625 ext. 213 or pmontgomery@unitedwayofgnb.org.

Initiatives Powered by Women United
To further our impact in the community, Women United leads several initiatives in support of our focus areas of early childhood development and literacy.

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Baby Bundles Logo

Supports new moms by providing carefully packaged bundles filled with baby essentials like diapers, wipes, bibs, and more! Plus, important information about early childhood development, literacy, and local programs and services. Click here to learn more.

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bbt logo

Delivers expert tips, child development resources and information about local events directly into the hands of anyone caring for children 0 – 8.  Bright by Text is free and available in English and Spanish.

Sign up now by texting GREAT to 274448.

Click here to learn more.

 

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w&r

Creates reading corners at area laundromats for children to read while there and provides free books to take home and build their own library. This effort focuses on increasing literacy and developing a love of reading. Click here to learn more.

Early childhood development and literacy community partners
Women United furthers impact on early childhood development and literacy through engagement and collaboration with key stakeholders. We are proud to partner with the following organizations and initiatives to provide all children an equitable opportunity for healthy development and learning. 

basics

nbto3

mass ed

      soco 

Deepen your engagement
Women United members are encouraged to get involved in ways that fulfill their interests while helping further our mission and increase community impact.  There are a number of opportunities available and others are added throughout the year.  

Create a profile on Volunteer Southcoast and stay connected to the Women United page. 

Volunteer and engagement opportunities:

  • Become a Bright by Text ambassador
  • Join an event committee
  • Host a Baby Bundles drive among friends or at your place of employment
  • Team up with other members to support a Wash & Read site  
  • Donate products and services to an event
  • Attend Power of the Purse (or donate a purse)
  • Host a Women United recruitment gathering at your home
  • Host a book drive for Wash & Read
  • Create a Women United fundraiser using your social media (Birthday’s are a great time)

Events
 

POP logo

Power of the Purse

Women United’s signature event, Power of the Purse, brings women together for a fabulous night in support of our Women United initiatives focused on early childhood development and early literacy.

Power of the Purse is the quintessential ladies’ night complete with entertainment, networking, cocktails, and our exquisite online designer handbag auction with brands and styles you know and love - all for a great cause! Check out our highlight reel from 2023!

Save the date: April 25, 2024!

Women Run United Mother's Day 5K Run

United Way of Greater New Bedford’s Women United and WOMEN RUN Inc. teamed up for a Mother's Day run in 2023. Women Run United Mother's Day 5k run is a fun & healthy event where family and friends come together to honor the amazing women in their lives and raise funds to bridge the gap and ignite positive change for women in our community.

Contact
Have questions about Women United? Contact Paula Montgomery at pmontgomery@unitedwayofgnb.org or 508-994-9625 ext. 213