Peterborough has joined a worldwide network of some 70,000 women who are supporting each other and their communities while investing an estimated $1.7 billion for initiatives that give them a stronger and unified voice.
On Wednesday morning at GM Financial, Woman United Peterborough was launched. Its members not only gift at least $1,200 annually to the local United Way to improve the lot of women in vulnerable situations but strive to reduce, and remove, economic and social barriers to the benefit of the next generation.
United Way cabinet member and Women United Peterborough founding chair Maryam Monsef says the initiative not only heralds the achievements of women but also supports agencies that “lift up local women and girls.” She adds there are many examples of women in leadership roles making a mark based on their unique life experiences.
Monsef notes that research shows that when women achieve their potential and do well, that’s good for the community as a whole.
United Way director of philanthropy Anne Ondercin says while Women United members’ financial support benefits member agencies helping women in the community, she stresses the
primary goal is to bring women together and empower them to become engaged in the conversation that will drive social change.
Visit www.uwpeterborough.ca/women-united/ for more information.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
