News release from the United Way of Allen County:
United Way’s Women United Hosts Unique Lunch and Learn
Community Leaders Help Early Childhood Programs(March 21, 2013) – United Way’s Women United hosted a Lunch and Learn today featuring local store-owner, Julie Eckert Clancy. Clancy has owned Jophiel, a women’s fine clothier in Covington Plaza, since 1994. She is also the fashion editor for Fort Wayne Magazine and hosts many presentations and seminars at her store about attire in the workplace. Community leaders attending the luncheon were treated to Clancy’s presentation, “Purse Speak: What Your Handbag Says About You.”
While this topic was certainly catchy and fun, the Women United group is on a bigger mission than just affecting trends and styles. Women United is preparing for their signature event, Power of the Purse, set for May 9 at 5 p.m. in IPFW’s International Ballroom. This event raises awareness and funds for quality early childhood programs in Allen County. Attendees of today’s Lunch and Learn had the option to pay for the session or donate a new or like-new designer handbag, which will go into the auction for Power of the Purse.
“This is the third year for Women United’s Power of the Purse event, which has been very well-attended and raised thousands of dollars for local early childhood services,” said Irene Walters, executive director of university relations and communications at IPFW, United Way board member and Women United co-chair. “We are continuing to evolve with this event and our Lunch and Learn with Julie Clancy was a perfect way to have a little fun and recruit for auction items at the same time.”
“I’m proud to be a part of United Way and Women United and the work they do in Allen County,” added Debra Williams, senior vice president/chief human resources officer at Parkview Health and United Way’s board chair. “They continue to come up with unique events that, in the end, get people focused on helping young children in our community.”
Women United is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children in Allen County through focused philanthropic giving, advocacy and volunteerism. If you are interested in attending or donating to Power of the Purse or you’d like information on joining Women United, contact Kelly Wehman at kellyw@uwacin.org or 260-469-4009.