Unlocking Potential Through Strong Leadership

What kind of community do we want to be? One that watches from the sidelines as challenges grow—or one that steps up, leads with purpose, and creates meaningful change? At United Way, we believe in the power of leadership to transform lives, businesses, and ultimately entire communities.

Our region is growing—in business, population, and opportunity—but for success to truly matter, it must be accessible to everyone. That’s why strong, compassionate leadership is at the heart of everything we do.

Each year, United Way invests in building future leaders through the 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program. This initiative empowers 35 women annually to strengthen their leadership skills, build confidence, and make meaningful contributions in their workplaces and beyond. Since 2009, 525 women have completed the program—becoming catalysts for positive change. This year’s group of participants is no different. Their drive and determination remind us that leadership isn’t just about titles, it’s about stepping up, making tough decisions, and ensuring a brighter future for all.

Leadership in Action: Addressing Our Community’s Challenges

Great leadership extends beyond boardrooms and businesses. It’s about tackling our region’s biggest challenges head-on. Homelessness, for example, is not just a crisis for those experiencing it— it impacts our workforce, economy, and community well-being. We cannot afford to look away.

At United Way, we know that solving complex issues like homelessness requires more than quick fixes. It demands collaboration among businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders to address root causes such as affordable housing, mental health support, and access to job opportunities. As we continue to collaborate through our newly launched United to End Homelessness project, we see how strong leadership from multiple organizations is the way we will solve homelessness—together. By investing in strong leaders who are willing to listen, learn, and act, we can drive real, lasting change.

Your Leadership Matters

As you read about these extraordinary women, I encourage you to reflect on your own leadership journey. Let their passion for growth reignite your own commitment to learning and self-improvement. Strong leadership has a ripple effect: when we challenge ourselves, we elevate our workplaces, strengthen our communities, and shape a culture of innovation and resilience that lasts generations.

Be Part of the Solution

If you’re ready to make a difference, there are many ways to get involved with United Way:

• Learn more about our mission at unitedwaycassclay.org

• Explore ways to lead and serve at unitedwaycassclay.org/get-involved

• If you’re passionate about leadership growth, the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program might be the perfect fit for you or someone you know. Applications for the 2026 program will be available in the fall of 2025.

The future of our community depends on leaders who are willing to act. Together, we can lift individuals out of crisis, strengthen families, and create a more welcoming community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s rise to the challenge—because when we lead with purpose, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.