For women ready to speak up and take action in their community
In September of 2007, United Way launched a component of its Leadership Giving Program called the Women’s Leadership Council. At the time is was one of the first of its kind in Canada. Working together, they use their collective power to provide a “hand up” to women and children who want to make positive changes in their lives.
Women United is a global movement with one network, one brand and one voice to make social change. On a local level, women of Chatham-Kent are still the key drivers of philanthropy through their time, talents and donations as they address local issues and allocate funds where needed.
Who We Are
A philanthropic network of innovative and inspiring women using their collective power to create meaningful social change in Chatham-Kent.
What We Do
Women United provides opportunities to improve the lives of women (and their families) in vulnerable situations by supporting areas where there are gaps in funding, programs, and services in Chatham-Kent.
Vision Statement
A better life for women and their families in Chatham-Kent.
The purpose of the Women United is to
Identify the issues of concern for local women and their families
Mobilize resources to meet existing and emerging needs
Provide networking and social opportunities for members
Partner with other groups and organizations with similar goals
Recruit women interested in becoming leaders in their community
Membership Eligibility
Female donors to the United Way of Chatham-Kent who contribute in excess of $1,200 annually and who direct a portion of this contribution towards Women United are eligible to be members of Women United. All members are eligible to participate on committees.
Allocation of Annual Contribution
Although the allocation of a member’s annual contribution is entirely at her discretion, it is suggested that Women United members direct the first $500 of their donation towards Women United with the remaining allocation being directed towards the Women United, general United Way Community Fund or towards any other registered charity of their choice.
Note also that any donor to the United Way of Chatham Kent can direct a portion of his or her annual contribution towards the United Way Women United Council. (ie. Non-members can direct funds to the Women United).
Annual General Meeting
Each year, all members of the Women United Council will be invited to an annual general meeting (AGM). The purpose of the AGM is to provide updates on the operation of Women United, including the allocation of annual contributions. In addition, should any voting be required for open committee positions, this will occur during the AGM. The AGM will normally be held in June of each year.
There are currently three Women United networking opportunities planned each year – a “Lunch ‘n Learn” in January, an AGM in June and a “Harvest Event” in the summer/early fall. Women United members are encouraged to bring a guest who might consider membership.
If you are currently a female donor at the $1,200 level or more, you are already eligible for membership in Women United and United Way would love to hear from you.
In addition, if you are a male donor to United Way at the $1,200 level or more and would like an opportunity to sponsor (anonymously or otherwise) a female member into the Women United, United Way would welcome your referral OR use your gift to choose a woman in our community to join. This is an exciting opportunity to grow membership in this community building project.
For further information about United Way’s Leadership Giving Program and the United Way of Chatham-Kent's Women United, please contact Margery Muharrem at 519-354-0430 ext 274.
Download the Women’s Leadership Council Grant Application Form.