United Way of Champaign County's Tenth Annual
Power of the Purse

Save the Date!

May 9, 2024
Pear Tree Estate, Champaign IL

United Way's Power of the Purse is a fun and fabulous Ladies' Evening Out for a great cause.

Guests enjoy an exciting night with live and silent auctions for designer purses, amazing prize packages, raffles, cocktails, and Pear Tree Estate's delicious food.

Proceeds from the event empower women in Champaign County to achieve financial stability.

Read a recap of our 2023 event.

Two Ways to Get Tickets and Support Our Cause

Power of the Purse is an incredibly POPular event and demand for tickets exceeds venue capacity. Make sure your ticket is 'in the bag' by donating a purse or becoming a sponsor! In 2023 we did not have any tickets available for general sale, and we anticipate the same level of demand for our 2024 event!

All Power of the Purse sponsorships include event tickets or table(s), plus a variety of additional benefits.

Purse donation is a great way to secure tickets for you and a friend to attend the event! Guidelines apply.

Details on sponsorship and purse donations will be available in Fall 2023. Please contact Paula Santiago at 217-352-5151 for more information.

Power of the Purse's Cause

Our event builds the financial stability of women in our community. By working with United Way, we are providing emergency supportive shelter and college scholarships.

Scholarships

The Power of the Purse scholarship fund provides assistance to women pursuing job training, technical or vocational certification, or an Associate's degree at Parkland College. Together we are removing financial barriers for women who seek a better future for themselves and their families.

To date, United Way has awarded 1117scholarships to women attending Parkland College.

Emergency Shelter

Cars. Garages. Couches. Campgrounds. These are the places families in our community used to stay when they become homeless. Thaks to the Emergency Shelter for Families, we can provide a safe home and critical support to help families leave homelessness and thrive.

The program provides more than a bed - it includes comprehensive case management, supported by funds raised at Power of the Purse.

The Emergency Shelter for Families is a resounding success. Since 2016, 300+ families have transitioned out of homelessness and into permanent, safe housing.