We are so grateful for another successful We Work For Change! The event was held at the iconic Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and through a national virtual livestream on September 12, 2024. As always, it brought together women, men, and allies to raise funds and awareness of United WE’s work, priorities, and results.
Thanks to the support of our sponsors and donors, we raised more than $490,000 to further our mission and accelerate progress toward advancing all women’s economic and civic leadership.
The evening started with a beautiful performance of the song “Becoming You” by the Youth Chorus of Kansas City, which really set the tone for the evening.
Next, inspiring messages about the evening's theme, “The Art of the Possible,” were shared by Event Co-chairs Lisa Krigsten, Neelima Parasker, and Pete Browne.
“With your continued support, closing the gender gap in local civic leadership is possible,” said Lisa Krigsten, Office Managing Partner, Dentons.
“With your continued support, a future where women and families have access to quality childcare is possible,” said Neelima Parasker, Founder and CEO of Snap IT Solutions.
“With your continued support, a world where women entrepreneurs can thrive and have equal access to capital is possible,” said Pete Browne, Co-founder and President, Kissick Construction.
Wendy Doyle, President and CEO of United WE, highlighted recent successes and outlined the organization’s vision, highlighting three pillars.
The Institute: A lab for groundbreaking research on women’s economic security and upward mobility
The Appointments Project: A program that works to empower women and strengthen communities by improving the gender diversity of civic boards and commissions.
The Studio: A platform that focus on telling the stories of women that inspire change and highlight the impact of our policy work and civic engagement
Finally, Keynote Speaker, Lindsey Davis, ABC News Live Anchor, delivered a powerful message about the importance of women in leadership, inspiring the audience with her insights.
Following her keynote address, Davis moved into a lively panel discussion with Annalia, Brian, and Tatyana - three members of The DeBruce Foundation Career Corps. Hear their responses to her question, “When you think about the “art of the possible,” what would you like to see the future of our country look like?” in the video below.
Three original paintings by KC artist and Takes Heart founder, Laura Noll Crossley were raffled for the event. Congratulations to our winners: Patti Phillips, Lisa Weatherspoon, and Emma Hochman.
“I am THRILLED!!! I’ve won many times over. First by the impact your event had on my teen daughters, second by its impact on me, and now I’ve won the raffle!!!” - Lisa Weatherspoon
As we look to the future, United WE is painting a vision of a world where all women are civically engaged, have paid leave in the workplace, and enough supply of quality and accessible childcare to launch their entrepreneurial businesses. Please consider the role you can play in this movement. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our work, your engagement is crucial and we are grateful for it.
Your support is crucial in ensuring that our future is bright.
