Women United engages driven, passionate women in philanthropy and service that strengthens local families. By providing our youngest children with the social, emotional, and intellectual skills they need to thrive – before they enter school – we can affect long-term change. There are more than 10,000 children under the age of 4 on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, and they need our support now. Just like the model of the Cape and Islands United Way, our goals and strategies reflect a community impact model, as we seek, create and nurture programs that work.
Women United Events
Women United hosts two signature events each year, the Community Baby Shower and Power of the Purse. To engage or learn more, please visit the event pages.
Why we need to act now
There is a widening achievement gap in our local schools—most evident with low income students. When combined with an escalating poverty rate, this trajectory will fuel community challenges of substance abuse, mental health, financial stability, and an inadequate workforce.
The challenges are complex, but we can make a difference.
The first 3 years of life are the period of most rapid brain growth, so getting ahead of this problem is paramount. We know that investing in young children is an investment in productivity and public safety that returns 8:1!
Since our launch in 2017, Women United has:
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Invested more than $275,000 into the community through programming, emergency funding, and micro-grants
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Placed more than 15,000 books in the hands of children through Reach Out and Read, an early literacy program that provides books to families at pediatrician visits
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Supported more than 380 families through our annual community baby showers, including two mobile events during the pandemic
Fundraising proceeds support our Community Baby Shower held each spring, local programs that support women and families, and educational grants and emergency funds that encourage career development and economic self sufficiency for women.
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