About P.O.W.E.R.
POWER is a Women’s Initiative group of the Shelby County United Way. The Shelby County United Way is a local 501c3 Non-Profit organization. The Shelby County United Way funds 27 different programs and agencies that positively impact the community by improving the Health, Education and Income of our community.
In 2013 the Shelby County United Way determined that a Women’s Initiative group would do well in our community. In June 2013 local female community leaders, donors and philanthropists formed a steering committee and within the year 23 Charter Members founded P.O.W.E.R., which stands for Passionate. Optimistic. Women. Encouraging. Results.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to build a powerful force of women philanthropists who develop financial resources, unite in service and are advocates for programs and initiatives that benefit children and their families in Shelby County.
Who We Are
A powerful local network of caring, philanthropic women that takes action and addresses the immediate needs of children and their families in our community through a holistic, hands on approach. POWER addresses the more time sensitive, immediate needs of children and families in our community.
P.O.W.E.R. Committee Chairs & Members
Julie Edelen
POWER Chair
Jeanne McDonagh
POWER Vice-Chair
Nikki Loudenback
Membership Chair
Committee Members
Rhonda Keister, Sheryl Sherer, Connie Barhorst, Kari Stewart, Kristy Sherman
Sandy Beer
Projects & Programs Chair
Committee Members
Tawnya Gaier, Jodi Siegel, Karen Schlagetter, Pam Cox, Betty Cole, Mary Beth Monnier, Lynne Dunham, Peggy Dixon
Marisa Couchot
Networking & Events
Ines Couchot
Networking & Events
Kim Doak
SCUW Board Liaison
Kristen Arnett
Social Media & Website
Amy West
SCUW POWER Associate
Membership
Experience
- Networking and Social opportunities with other women who live and or work in Shelby County
- Hands on volunteering and mentoring opportunities
- Gain professional experience
- Give back & make a difference
- Personally strengthening your community
Project & Volunteer Experiences
Through collaborations between the Shelby County United Way, our community partners and members we consistently have new projects and opportunities developing. There are many current volunteer opportunities available to members. For information about these volunteer opportunities, visit our Volunteer Opportunities page.
What We Do
Our members take a hands-on approach to driving change in our community by implementing programming and volunteering for events. POWER provides the opportunity for you to participate at the level that meets your needs, and your lifestyle. You can attend events, volunteer, join a committee or simply make a financial contribution.
P.O.W.E.R. Member Benefits
We want your membership in POWER to benefit you personally as well as help fill the needs in our community? When you become a member of POWER, events are available to you free and some for a small fee, and usually include a meal or light refreshments. Listed below are some of the programs that we have conducted in order to give members information on health, fitness and personal growth.
Luncheons
Annual Membership Luncheons include a keynote speaker, lunch and social time.
POWER-ful You Events
These events feature topics for women’s health and wellness
POWER of the Purse
POWER of the Purse Champagne Luncheon & Fashion Show: This is our signature fundraiser held in April.
POWER Tour to Understand
Members take a bus to many United Way Agencies and have the opportunity to understand first hand how local dollars and volunteering help those in our community.
Appreciation Events
Appreciation Events are an opportunity to truly appreciate our members. They typically include an activity or speaker, food and drinks and socialization.
