Press Release: United WE’s National Women’s Entrepreneur Childcare Project Announces Commission Members and Survey on Women’s Entrepreneurship

Initiatives to lead efforts that propel United States to next generation of childcare policy solutions

As part of the National Women’s Entrepreneur Childcare Project, United WE today announces a childcare commission of national leaders and a nationwide survey of mothers who are entrepreneurs.

The United WE National Commission on Childcare and Women’s Entrepreneurship is a critical component of the National Women’s Entrepreneur Childcare Project, an effort funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, that will generate new policy ideas in the heartland to reduce the childcare barriers limiting women’s entrepreneurship. The Commission will convene in Kansas City, Missouri on November 1-2, 2023, to assist United WE in advancing research and policy solutions to the childcare barriers that are limiting women’s entrepreneurial risk-taking on both sides of the childcare equation – entrepreneurial childcare providers and entrepreneurial mothers.

“Access to childcare is a cascading crisis - a situation that was at its breaking point before the pandemic and loosely held together with pandemic-era relief funding,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President and CEO. “Now that critical childcare funding has expired and sent America over a “childcare cliff,” the potential effects could be disastrous for families, the economy and especially women.” 

A nationwide survey is being conducted to better understand the childcare needs and barriers for mothers who are entrepreneurs in a post COVID-19 environment. Preliminary survey findings will be compiled for a full release in 2024. 

In 2022, United WE was granted $475,000 from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for a two-year national childcare research study. In addition to the Commission of national leaders and nationwide survey of mothers who are entrepreneurs, the project includes a state-by-state childcare licensing research study as part of the United WE Institute, a mid-year Commission report in 2024 and collaboration with women entrepreneurs to advocate for policy change.

“Childcare infrastructure is critical in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in our communities,” said DeAngela Burns-Wallace, President and CEO, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. “The existing barriers limit women’s entrepreneurial risk-taking ability, which ultimately affects us all. By collaborating with United WE and the National Women’s Entrepreneur Childcare Project, we can amplify the voices of those most affected, raise awareness about the existing barriers, and develop more effective policy solutions."

The nonpartisan Commission will generate new policy ideas about childcare barriers that are limiting women’s entrepreneurial risk taking. The Commission is comprised of leaders from across the nation, including:

• Tess Adair, University of Scotland

• Casey Adrian, Office of MO Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe

• Gayatri Agnew, Walmart

• Rhian Allvin, Brynmor Holdings, LLC

• Laura Black, LCB Ventures

• Leslie Borrell, Carefully

• Melanie Bridgeforth, Women's Foundation of Alabama

• Emily Buckman, American Farm Bureau Federation

• Shannon Cotsoradis, Buffet Early Childhood Fund

• Marica Cox Mitchell, Bainum Family Foundation

• John Dearie, Center for American Entrepreneurship

• AJ Griffin, Potts Family Foundation

• Jamee Herbert, BridgeCare

• Shayna Hetzel, American Family Insurance

• Jennifer Kelly, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

• Missy Love, Biostar Renewables

• Aaron Merchen, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Center for Education and Workforce

• Jeanne Olofson, Ex-Officio

• Elle Patout, National Association of Women Business Owners

• Emma Pengelly, Ingeborg Initiatives

• Erica Phillips, National Association for Family Child Care

• Tonja Rucker, National League of Cities

• Leslie Lynn Smith, Themis Strategic Partners

• Helene Stebbins, Alliance for Early Success

• Louise Stoney, Opportunities Exchange

• Julie Trivitt, Heartland Forward

• Sheldon Weisgrau, Missouri Foundation for Health

Learn more about how United WE is creating meaningful change for all women at www.united-we.org.

Press Release: United WE Institute Announced at We Work For Change Event as Newest Endeavor to Advance Policy Solutions

United WE Institute is first-of-its-kind centralized hub for research and policy work

KANSAS CITY, MO – September 26, 2023 – Today during United WE’s annual We Work For Change event, President & CEO Wendy Doyle announced the launch of the United WE Institute, a first-of-its-kind centralized hub for research and policy work across the Midwest and beyond.

Building off years of robust research, the United WE Institute will house national data and research on women’s economic participation and civic leadership and will formalize a Midwest Policy Lab that elevates the voices of women and advances nonpartisan policies. United WE’s first national research study, the national childcare licensing project, will be part of the Institute along with the organization’s next national study on occupational licensing.

“We seek to advance policies in a non-partisan manner that celebrates and restores civility, hope, and trust in American civil society,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President and CEO. “The United WE Institute will serve as a model for the rest of the country, promoting evidence-based and nonpartisan policies that remove barriers and provide opportunities for all women to lead meaningful change.” 

The United WE Institute was announced to attendees gathered both in-person at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and through a virtual livestream for United WE’s annual We Work For Change event.

This year’s event program featured one of the nation’s most high-profile and truth-seeking political journalists, Mara Liasson, who spoke about the important role media, politics, and civil discourse play in our lives. 

Mara Liasson, National Public Radio’s (NPR) national political correspondent, has dedicated her career to listening, storytelling and amplifying the voices of others. During the event she discussed the importance of media, politics, civil discourse and breaking down barriers for women. Mara also shared her extensive knowledge of politics, current events, and her experience as a woman leader in the media. 

We Work for Change, presented by Bank of America, is United WE's signature annual fundraising event uniting women and allies to raise funds and awareness to advance all women's economic and civic leadership. The event has inspired generations of women and men to work towards a more gender equitable world. 

“Bank of America is proud to be the presenting sponsor of We Work for Change, which celebrates progress and inspires generations of women,” said Linda Lenza, Senior Vice President and Market Executive, Bank of America Kansas City. “Mara Liasson and United WE reminded us not to miss opportunities to listen so we can better understand each other and find common ground – especially for crafting economic solutions for women and their families.”

The 2023 We Work for Change Event raised more than ever before – $704,677 and counting – to support the United WE mission and programs, including the commission of transformative research, support for barrier-removing policy reforms, advocating for the legacies of women, and more. United WE’s strategic investments and passionate work have resulted in work across seven states, including 27 impactful research studies, 57 meaningful policy actions, and 191+ women appointed to civic leadership positions through the Appointments Project®. 

“Change is not a distant echo but a tangible reality that gets closer with every footstep of reconsideration and new perspectives,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President and CEO. “Let the sound of change be our guide, our motivation, and our constant reminder that united, we are stronger.”

Join United WE in creating meaningful change for all women and learn more at www.united-we.org.

Press Release: United WE and the University of Missouri–St. Louis Unveil New Research on Gender Parity and Racial Diversity on Civic Boards and Commissions in Missouri

Study reveals Missouri municipal boards and commissions are not reflective of the racial, ethnic and gender composition of the state  

United WE today announced research conducted by the University of Missouri–St. Louis about women’s representation and racial diversity on Missouri municipal boards and commissions. The research found that boards and commissions in Missouri cities are not reflective of the racial, ethnic, and gender composition of the state. 

The report, “Gender Parity on Civic Boards and Commissions in Missouri,” revealed findings that women and people of color are underrepresented broadly on boards and commissions. While Missouri is home to more women than men (50.6% women), women comprise only 36.9% of boards and commissions members. While 11.7% of the state’s population is Black, the data shows Black Missourians hold only 5.4% of seats on boards and commissions. White Missourians comprise 92.3% of members. 

Factors such as municipal population, average household income, and average educational attainment were found to be largely unrelated to gender and racial parity on boards and commissions in Missouri. While the assumption is that larger municipalities will have better representation given the larger pool of members available to serve, the research found municipalities with fewer than 3,000 people have at least 50% female representation on 41.8% of their boards.

“At United WE, we believe all levels of civic engagement, including boards and commissions, should reflect the rich diversity of the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “As we continue our mission to advance all women’s economic and civic leadership, United WE’s Appointments Project® plays a critical role to convene, connect and celebrate women on their civic leadership journey through a virtual network of support.” 

Missouri women are especially underrepresented on “power boards” that have direct influence on policy making and financial resource allocation. Women in Missouri have the highest proportion of seats in stereotypically feminine areas, such as boards and commissions focused on the arts (60.07%), community development (52.95%), human rights (57.07%), and libraries (71.55%). 

Conversely, primarily white men in Missouri have the highest proportion of seats on “power boards,” which include planning and zoning (74.82%), transportation (81.84%), budget and finance (72.74%), adjustments and appeals (78.85%), and public works (76.41%).

“The voices of women and people of color are diminished on influential boards that influence critical issues, such as home prices and environmental justice,” said Anita Manion, assistant professor of political science and affiliate faculty member in gender studies at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. “This critical research intends to increase transparency and accessibility of information about boards and commissions to better inform policymakers, elected leaders, advocacy groups, and potential members of boards and commissions.”

The full research study is available here. To learn more about United WE’s Appointments Project® visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project.  

Press Release: NPR’s Mara Liasson to Headline United WE’s Annual We Work For Change Event on September 26

KANSAS CITY, MO – May 23, 2023 – One of the nation’s most high-profile and truth-seeking political journalists, Mara Liasson, will speak at United WE’s 2023 We Work For Change event on September 26. Hosted in-person at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and live streamed nationally, Liasson is sure to inspire us to listen and understand the important role media, politics, and civil discourse play in our lives. 

We Work for Change, presented by Bank of America, is United WE's signature annual fundraising event uniting women and allies to raise funds and awareness to advance all women's economic and civic leadership. The event has inspired generations of women and men to work toward a more gender-equitable world.

“Bank of America is committed to empowering and advancing women within our own organization and throughout society through equitable policies and opportunities,” said Linda Lenza, Senior Vice President and Market Executive, Bank of America Kansas City. “United WE has a long 32-year history of impacting progress for generations of women, and we are proud to be the presenting sponsor of We Work For Change.”

As a national political correspondent for NPR, Liasson provides extensive coverage of politics and policy from Washington, DC — focusing on the White House and Congress. Each election year, Liasson provides key coverage of the candidates and issues in both presidential and congressional races. During her tenure she has covered eight presidential elections — from 1992 to 2020.

“In my 36 years at NPR, I’ve had the opportunity to listen firsthand to the politics and policy issues facing the country,” said Mara Liasson. “United WE’s non-partisan approach is more important than ever, as their research shows inequities in pay, paid family leave, affordable childcare and barriers for women entrepreneurs are challenges that affect our nation’s economy.”

Liasson’s reports can be heard regularly on NPR’s award-winning news programs, Morning Edition and All Things Considered. She is a three-time winner of the White House Correspondents' Association's Merriman Smith Award for daily news coverage.

“Mara Liasson is one of the most trusted non-partisan voices in political journalism and we recognize and value the power of storytelling that she brings to the table,” said Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of United WE. “We are delighted for Mara to share her extensive knowledge of politics, current events, and her experiences as a woman leader in the media at We Work For Change as we unite with hundreds of women and allies across the country to fuel and advance all women’s economic and civic leadership.”

Event sponsorship opportunities are available now. To view sponsorship opportunities or to become a sponsor, visit https://united-we.org/wwfc2023.  

If space allows, tickets will be available in August. Join United WE in creating meaningful change for all women and learn more at www.united-we.org.

Wendy Doyle Statement on Kansas SB 25

It is with great pride that today we celebrate Governor Kelly’s signing of Senate Bill 25 that includes increased funding to the Kansas Heroes Scholarship Act.

Senate Bill 25 includes $700,000 for the Kansas Heroes Scholarship, a fund created in 2021 to enable eligible dependents and spouses of certain public safety, public office, and military personnel to enroll at higher education institutions with no charge for tuition fees. This is yet another step in the right direction to support the dignity and livelihood of survivors and families of Kansas’ heroes and public servants.

Last May, United WE advocated for the Kansas Heroes Scholarship Bill (Kansas HB 2716) to be signed into law, which provides post-secondary education tuition assistance for a spouse or dependent or an emergency service provider or military service member who died or was disabled in the line of duty.

We appreciate the work of our policymakers to support the families of Kansas’ heroes and public servants.

Press Release: Top National Football League Leaders Advance Conversation about Women’s Equity During Draft Week

Dasha Smith, Sam Rapoport and Kimmi Chex to Headline United WE’s 2023 Champion Breakfast

Kansas City, MO – April 13, 2023 – During Draft Week on April 28, three top leaders from the National Football League (NFL) will discuss their commitment to advancing opportunities for all women. Dasha Smith, Sam Rapoport and Kimmi Chex will speak about diversity, equity and inclusion and how male allies and women can champion these efforts in their own communities and workplaces. 

The conversation is taking place during United WE’s 2023 Champion Breakfast, which brings together all allies to raise funds and awareness for the advancement of women’s economic and civic leadership. Presented by Bank of America and co-hosted by Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan and United WE board member Kathy Donovan, the event will inspire attendees and organization leaders as they hear from three trailblazing leaders. 

Dasha Smith oversees all administration for the NFL including HR, technology, data & analytics, strategy and business intelligence, diversity and inclusion, social responsibility, and philanthropy. 

“Diversity and inclusion is a top priority for our league and we are committed to advancing opportunities for all women,” said Dasha Smith, NFL EVP & Chief Administrative Officer. “Until we reach a gender-equitable world, we will continue to use our voice and platform to help pave a smoother path for future generations.”

A former professional American Football player, Sam Rapoport has been named to People Magazine’s “25 Women Changing The World” and named one of Sports Illustrated’s Most Powerful, Most Influential and Most Outstanding Women in Sports. 

“Both on or off the field, advancing girls and women is a critical priority for the League and a personal passion of mine in my role at the National Football League,” said Sam Rapoport, NFL Senior Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “Dasha and I look forward to sharing the initiatives, procedures, and steps we’ve taken to create even more gender equity in hopes of inspiring other companies to do the same.” 

Champion Breakfast moderator, Kimmi Chex, is an on-air host for NFL Network and NFL Media. As a full-time personality for the league, she uses her voice to raise awareness of issues Black and Brown communities are facing, liaise with League leadership and advocate for programming that reflects the population of the players in the league.

“As a Kansas City native, I’m proud to see my hometown and United WE stepping up as a national leader for the advancement of all women,” said Kimmi Chex, NFL Network On-Air Host. “It will take all of us to reach gender equity and these types of transparent conversations with male allies and women are an example of the forward momentum that should be replicated across the nation.”

The event will take place on Friday, April 28, 2023, from 8:00 – 9:30 a.m CT. This event will be hybrid, with attendance available both in-person at the North Club at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium and through a virtual live stream.

Press Release: NAWBO and United WE Launch Partnership to Educate and Empower Women to Serve in Civic Leadership

Programming will empower women to effectively serve their local communities

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and United Women’s Empowerment (United WE) are proud to announce a new partnership that will educate women on how to make a positive impact and build skills that will benefit their communities and businesses. Together, they will provide virtual programming with a focus on civic leadership and community service, along with relevant policy topics and important professional skill development.

This affiliate partnership joins together two strong national women’s organizations with rich histories of advancing women’s business and civic interests.

“We are excited about our partnership with United WE as it strengthens our advocacy foundation and efforts to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power, with a unique focus on local civic leadership,” said Jen Earle, NAWBO National’s CEO. “So many of our thousands of NAWBO women business owners are servant leaders in addition to business leaders, wanting to positively impact their communities through increased representation on public boards and commissions.’’

United WE’s ongoing research with the Universities of Notre Dame and Tulane show women make up approximately 40% of civic board appointments, with some cities having over 75% of boards with zero or one-woman representation. Increasing the number of women at decision-making tables, like public boards and commissions, can bolster effectiveness, build public trust, and improve the lives of all residents, according to United WE’s research. The NAWBO and United WE partnership will provide free, valuable webinars and skill-building audio vignettes that will prepare women to serve in these important local positions.  

“Women business owners can bring a rich diversity of skills and talent needed to best serve their communities by their involvement on local boards and commissions,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “We are thrilled that this partnership with NAWBO will empower many talented women to build upon their skills and to bring their unique experiences to their communities in civic leadership positions.”

The planned webinars and audio vignettes include how to deal with burnout, improving executive presence, negotiating techniques, presentation tips and more. The first webinar, titled “Advocating for You, Your Business and Your Community,” will take place on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 9 a.m. PT/11 a.m. CT/12 p.m. ET. Register here.

Wendy Doyle Testimony on Missouri House Bill 870

Madam Chair, Members of the Committee:

My name is Wendy Doyle, the President and CEO of United WE, and I’m here to support House Bill 870, as a step forward in the work to increase Missouri families’ access to childcare. As you may recall, the mission of United WE is to advance all women’s economic and civic leadership. When we talk about barriers to women’s economic and civic leadership, childcare is one of those issues that is multifaceted in its impact and transcends both of our focus areas.

United WE is proud to present nonpartisan quantitative and qualitative research that policymakers, like yourselves, can draw upon when making public policy. To that end, the Status of Women in Missouri tells us that Missouri families struggled to find affordable childcare long before COVID. However, the pandemic created what many call a “cascading crisis” when it comes to childcare. According to our research, 14% of the state’s labor force have children under age six, making the ability to access childcare a necessity for working families. We also know that childcare is a significant expense for many families, averaging 12% of a married couple’s income. Single parents in Missouri on average spend 40% of their income on center-based infant care and married couples at the poverty line spend an average of 67% of their income on center-based care.

Additionally, during our 2021 town halls across Missouri, we heard from women of all backgrounds about their childcare struggles. The stories we heard told a bleak story:

• The supply of childcare providers does not meet demand.

• Staff shortages occur because of barriers for workers, who must have a certificate or specialized degree and are often paid low wages.

• Accredited childcare facilities in rural areas don’t accommodate non-traditional work hours, some even close before the end of the typical workday.

• Social norms often dictate that women take on the responsibility for planning or providing childcare.

• State funding for childcare providers is unpredictable and can cause providers to close or reduce services unexpectedly.

We understand that fully addressing the childcare crisis will take a variety of solutions. However, the Childcare Contribution Tax Credit is a meaningful step forward. This legislation addresses many factors within the childcare landscape, including the cost of care, workforce and entrepreneurship challenges, and bricks and mortar costs.

Thank you for your time and attention to this issue. Feel free to contact me if I can provide any additional information.

Sincerely,

Wendy D. Doyle

President and CEO

United WE

Wendy Doyle Testimony on Kansas Senate Bill 63

SB 63 would expand the scope of uses of campaign contributions to allow for the cost of childcare and other family caregiving services. The hearing for SB 63 took place in the Senate Transparency and Ethics Committee on February 8, 2023.

Below is Wendy’s testimony:

Mrs. Chair, Members of the Committee:

My name is Wendy Doyle, the President and CEO of United WE, and I’m here to applaud Senate Bill 63 as a critical solution that could encourage more women to run for office. As you may recall from previous sessions, the mission of United WE is to advance all women’s economic and civic leadership. When we talk about barriers to womens’ economic and civic leadership, childcare is one of those issues that is multifaceted in its impact and transcends both of our focus areas. 

United WE is proud to present nonpartisan qualitative and quantitative research that policymakers, like yourselves, can draw upon when making public policy. To that end, the Status of Women in Kansas tells us that Kansas women vote at a higher rate than men, yet make up only about 28% of the state legislature. Clearly, there is more work to be done in eliminating barriers that keep women from running for office. 

Additionally, during our town halls across Kansas this summer, we learned that childcare is a specific issue that inhibits womens’ interest and ability to run for office. Allowing campaign funds to be spent on childcare would certainly be a transformative step forward in leveling the playing field for women to serve their communities in elected office.

Thank you for your time and attention to this issue. Feel free to contact me if I can provide any additional information. 

Sincerely,

Wendy D. Doyle

President and CEO

United WE 

Wendy Doyle Testimony on Kansas House Bill 2123

House Commerce Committee

Dear Mr. Chairman, Members of the Committee:

My name is Wendy Doyle, and I am the President and CEO of United WE. As you may recall from previous sessions, the mission of United WE is to advance all women’s economic and civic leadership.

It’s my honor to submit this written testimony for your consideration in support of House Bill 2123. Our organization feels strongly that fostering entrepreneurship is a key strategy in unlocking womens’ economic potential. To that end, the Status of Women in Kansas illuminated a stark fact that Kansas women have lower rates of self-employment compared with the national statistics. The report also tells us that women bring tremendous value to state economies:

“McKinsey and Company estimates that 25% of the growth in U.S. GDP between 1970 and 2009 can be attributed to women’s increased labor force participation. GDP growth is fueled by an expansion of the labor force and increased productivity, and women can contribute both key ingredients to economic prosperity.”

Focusing on entrepreneurship is an effective way to engage women in the state’s workforce. During our town halls across Kansas this summer, we learned that women cited reasons such as flexibility with children and the need for additional income as reasons for starting their own full-time or part-time businesses. In addition, women told us that limited business resources, connections and networks have negatively impacted their business endeavors. Addressing these issues could provide short-term and long-term economic impact to the state.

Prioritizing entrepreneurship by creating this office is innovative and strategic. We would be happy to work with policymakers to define the Office of Entrepreneurship’s focus on women entrepreneurs as this legislation is further considered.

Thank you for your time and attention to entrepreneurship in the State of Kansas. Feel free to contact me if I can provide any additional information.

Sincerely,

Wendy D. Doyle
President and CEO
United WE