Join us Tuesday, May 5, 2026 as we come together to inspire, inform and invest in women's futures.
The annual Women United Awards Luncheon brings together leaders from the Tri-County to celebrate women who are making a real difference in our community. Through three distinguished awards, we will honor women whose leadership, compassion and commitment are strengthening families and creating opportunities every day:
- Hands-On Hero - Katrina Carpenter, Founder, Jean's Angels
- Nonprofit Leader - Dorothea Bernique, Executive Director, Increasing H.O.P.E. Financial Training Center
- Role Model of the Year - Laura Ganci, CEO, Pattison's Academy
This year, the luncheon goes beyond celebration. It is an invitation to take action.
You can make a direct and meaningful impact through a special fundraiser and raffle benefiting the Women United Flex Fund. This fund provides immediate support to ALICE households, specifically single mothers and female caregivers with children, who are among the most vulnerable to financial instability.
In our community, many women supporting their families do everything they can to stay afloat. However, unexpected expenses like missed paychecks or gaps in child care can quickly lead to instability. The Flex Fund helps close that gap, offering timely support to remove barriers and help families stay on track.
The program will also include a panel of Trident United Way leaders who will share insights into the daily realities faced by single mothers and female caregivers.
- Ilze Astad, Chief Innovation Officer
- Khalilah Sumners, Virtual Resource Connection Manager
- Latoya Lewis, Director of Family Service Initiatives
You will hear real perspectives, real challenges and real stories of resilience.
As we honor these remarkable women, we’re reminded of the power of compassion in action and what’s possible when we come together to support women and families when they need it most.
Click here to reserve your seat.
Thank you to our sponsors!
_0.png){kind=logo}
