United Way of La Porte County’s affinity group, Women United, celebrated their Power of the Purse event last Thursday night at Uptown Social in downtown Michigan City. The venue was filled with those who came out for a night of fun, networking, and learning more about the group’s mission. Women United is at the forefront of United Way’s movement to build stronger communities. “Our women leaders fight for the financial stability of every person here in La Porte County by providing community education and raising funds to help support local United Way partner agencies that provide services to struggling families,” said Kris Pate, President and CEO of United Way of La Porte County.

The night kicked off with a warm welcome and some brief history about Women United from the group’s two co-chairs, Cindy Kirkham and Bobbi Petru. Kris Pate then took the stage to explain the evening’s agenda. Throughout the evening, guests purchased raffle tickets to drop into the buckets of the purse packages that caught their eye. Some popular purse packages included: Kate Spade Back to School (backpack filled with fast food gift certificates, pens, and more!), Michael Kors Wine Night In (MK purse, wine, candles, etc.) and a DKNY Animal print package (matching cheetah print bags, dog toys, tea towels, gift cards etc.). 

During the dinner, catered by Agave Mansion, the group welcomed Guy Fisher and Amber Terry from Goodwill Industries to the stage. The speakers shared information about programs offered by Goodwill, key financial stability data specific to La Porte County, and the importance of having a local United Way in our community.

After dinner, Dave Sisk, director of corporate engagement at United Way of La Porte County, entertained the crowd with a live auction. An incredible Fox-themed Baby Bundle donated by Dunebrook, a Dooney & Burke purse with Cubs tickets, and a Zadig & Voltaire package were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Congratulations to the live auction winners: Michelle Goebel, Gail Johnson, and Angie Nelson-Deuitch!

Special thanks to Jeremy Rossi from Uptown Social, members of the 2022 Power of the Purse planning committee, Guy Fisher, Amber Terry, and everyone who came out to spend a night with Women United! Stay tuned for Power of the Purse 2023!