Power of Supporting Women
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
What a powerful gathering of women united in purpose.
Last week, UNTAPPED POTENTIAL had the privilege of participating in United Way Women United’s 14th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon and Silent Auction, held in Hartford, CT. This event—beloved by the community and impactful by design—brings together hundreds of champions for change. We were proud to be among more than 900 attendees rallying around one mission: lifting women and families out of poverty through education, workforce development, and financial empowerment.
And as a social enterprise committed to advancing women in their #returntowork journeys, the event struck a deeply personal chord.
When Women Rise, We All Rise
The theme of the day echoed a core belief of UNTAPPED POTENTIAL: when women rise, entire communities thrive. From the stirring stories shared on stage to the meaningful conversations at each table, the message was clear—economic mobility for women isn’t a women’s issue. It’s a societal imperative. mission is to help caregivers—especially stay-at-home moms and mid-career women—reignite their professional potential. in unseen ways.
Events like Power of the Purse, we’re reminded that in the journey of life, not one women should walk alone. Women United's annual event offers an opportunity for us to come together and support those most in need in our communities Nationwide.
A Room Full of Possibility
Our delegation included a mix of returners, mentors, and launchers our Flexreturn® program. Across 3 tables UNTAPPED POTENTIAL supporters brought energy to the room reflecting our belief in the power of second chances—and the urgency of making those chances more accessible for those in the greatest need.
A special highlight was celebrating Jan Turner, one of our dedicated mentors, who was honored with the LeadHER Award. Jan’s commitment to guiding women as they step into new phases of career life is an embodiment of what Power of the Purse is all about. Mentors like Jan light the way for women who may be doubting their abilities or struggling to see where they fit in today’s job market.
We also extend heartfelt congratulations to Julia Brinson, Tara Linton, and the full Steering Committee for their outstanding leadership. This event was not only beautifully executed—it was profoundly moving.
A Story That Brought Us All to Our Feet
The keynote speaker, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Andrea Elliott, was joined by Dasani Coates, the subject of her acclaimed book Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival and Hope in an American City. Their dialogue offered a raw, intimate look at the systemic barriers families face—and the strength it takes to break cycles of poverty.
Dasani’s story is one of resilience in the face of instability. As a young girl navigating homelessness while trying to succeed in school, her experience underscored how deeply interconnected housing, education, and employment are. It reminded us why career support isn’t just about jobs—it’s about dignity, stability, and generational progress.
By bridging the gap between workforce re-entry and the evolving needs of today’s employers, we create pathways back to meaningful work for those who may have stepped away to raise children, care for aging parents, or support their communities
The room rose to its feet following their lively discussion.
Women in Connecticut: The Reality We Must Change
At UNTAPPED POTENTIAL, we often talk about the “hidden talent pool.” But there’s another hidden reality—one that United Way’s Women United is bravely working to address:
📊 38% of households in the 860 region struggle to make ends meet.
📊 73% of single female-headed households with children live below the ALICE threshold.
📊 58% of all ALICE households are headed by women.
These are not just numbers. These are our neighbors, our fellow parents, and our future workforce.
Why We Show Up
We attend Power of the Purse each year not only to support Women United, but because our missions are aligned. We both believe in activating the full potential of women in our state. We both know the ripple effects when a woman is empowered to succeed. And we both understand that structural change starts with strategic support.
We are grateful to United Way of Central and Eastern Connecticut for elevating the barriers of women and centering women’s voices in the fight against poverty.
Networking to YOUR Potential
For the stay-at-home moms and mid-career professionals we serve, the return-to-work journey can feel daunting. But events like Power of the Purse serve as reminders that they are not alone. What better way to exercise your networking muscle than in a room with women leaders as well as business executives with the objective to lift women up? Attending alongside our industry mentors works to remove any feeling of uncertainty. But with personalized career support, mentorship, and access to flexible roles through our Flexreturn® model, they gain the confidence and clarity needed to relaunch their careers on their terms.
What’s Next?
Whether you’re a returner looking to re-enter the workforce, a professional ready to mentor others, or an employer seeking inclusive hiring solutions, now is the time to connect.
We invite you to learn more about Unted Way's upcoming programs and opportunities to get involved. Because the power of the purse isn’t just about raising money—although there is always an opportunity to donate.
Together, we can reimagine what’s possible for women at every stage of career and life.
What’s more, our employer partners benefit from a highly skilled, motivated talent pool that brings fresh perspective and proven experience—just in a non-linear package.
Again, much thanks to the organizers brought us this opportunity and who made the Event a success.
Thank you to our attendees, supporters, and to every woman lifting another as she climbs. We left Power of the Purse inspired, hopeful, and even more committed to helping women in their career advancement whatever their current state.
Let’s keep building a future where all women—no matter their path—can thrive.
