The United Way of Lewis County hosted its 18th annual Power of the Purse event at the TransAlta Commons on the Centralia College campus Tuesday.
The theme was “Women of the World.”
This year's winner of the Woman of Distinction honor was Amber Buck, president of Toledo Neighbors Program. Additionally, Doris Bier recieved a standing ovation for her role as a Rosie the Riveter during World War II. Many attendees dressed as Rosie the Riveters, sporting the signature red bandanas.
Global Head of University and Recruitment Programs at Pinterest Cristin Rigney, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Melissa A. Grant, with Providence Centralia, and CEO of Eagles Nest Community Kitchen Joy Promise were among the guest speakers.
“I look forward to the Power of the Purse every year,” United Way of Lewis County Board President Gerda Stafford said in a news release prior to the event. “It is a time where women are recognized and celebrated for their contributions to the community. A time where we come together for our community to lift 30% of our families out of poverty by 2030, as well as a time where we can focus our attention on immediate needs, like Supplies Period. It is energizing to watch and be a part of women empowering women.”
Women attending Power of the Purse had the opportunity to network, socialize, participate in raffles and be present as United Way of Lewis County announced Buck as its 2023 Woman of Distinction award winner.
"The award recognizes a local woman who is passionate about improving others’ lives using their own time, talents, leadership, compassion and commitment to serving those in need.," according to a news release.
Supplies Period is a program United Way runs in Lewis County aiming to reduce the number of absences middle school girls go through due to their inability to access period supplies.
“This program addresses the crisis of period poverty, which affects one in four teenage girls in Lewis County. Attendees can contribute monetary gifts as well as period supplies,” a release stated.
Sponsors for this year’s Power of the Purse included Pacific Mobile Structures, Washington State Employees Credit Union, Wagner Orthodontics, Title Guaranty Company, Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel and the Timberland Bank.
Learn more about the United Way of Lewis County at https://www.lewiscountyuw.com/.
