Thank you for supporting Power of Your Purse 2026
The Power of Your Purse gala was a huge success, raising $361,349 and exceeding our fundraising goal. Hosted by Women United at the Asher Adams, the gala was a sold-out event with 280 tickets sold, plus virtual silent auction participants. Attendees donned their florals, fascinators, and garden chic attire for a fun and impactful evening—all benefiting kids and families in our community.
Thank you to the gala attendees, Power of Your Purse sponsors, in-kind donors, silent auction and paddle raise participants, the Women United Power of Your Purse Committee, and everyone else who made this incredible event possible. Read more about the event and its impact on our blog.
Rooted in Purpose
This year’s theme, Rooted in Purpose, celebrates the resilience and vision that inspires our work. Even as we grow, innovate, and rise to meet the evolving needs of our community, our mission remains a steady foundation that guides us forward. Together, we are united by a shared vision, and when we stand rooted in purpose, there is no limit to the impact we can create.
Cecilia Gutierrez | Keynote Speaker
We’re honored to welcome our gala keynote speaker, Cecilia Gutierrez, Managing Director at Blue Meridian Partners. Cecilia leads strategy and execution across key initiatives that expand Blue Meridian’s philanthropic investments. Previously, she served in a key leadership role at the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance and served for five years as President & CEO of the Miami Children’s Initiative.
This year’s theme, Rooted in Purpose, celebrates the resilience and vision that inspires our work. Cecilia will share her powerful personal and professional journeys and share insight into what it takes to strengthen entire communities—so more kids and families have access to basic needs, high-quality education, and the opportunities that lead to lasting economic mobility.
Deanie Wimmer | Emcee
Deanie co-anchors KSL News and is an Emmy Award–winning reporter who covers education. She has been a supporter and member of Women United for more than 20 years.
Jennifer Williams | Speaker
Jennifer Williams is the Baby & You Facilitator for Davis School District. She is a former elementary school teacher and mother of five who holds a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from the University of Missouri. Jennifer is passionate about literacy and loves helping families support their children’s learning from the earliest years.
Women United: Purpose in Action
The Power of Your Purse Gala champions United Way of Salt Lake’s vision of 100% of Utah kids and families thriving.
This year, the silent auction and paddle raise will support Women United’s two priority programs: Promise Baby & You and the Deborah S. Bayle Scholarship Fund for Youth. These two programs are vital to local students’ education journeys.
Please join United Way of Salt Lake and Women United as we share inspiring stories and opportunities for you to make a difference by helping build a foundation of opportunity for every Utahn.
Interested in becoming an event sponsor?
Contact Adrienne Smith at adrienne.smith@uw.org for more details.
For information about donating silent auction items, contact Megan Dunn at megan.dunn@uw.org.
