The Women’s Leadership Council, a membership program benefiting United Way of Southern Nevada, recently held its inaugural Women’s Leadership Luncheon honoring Carolyn Goodman, Selma Bartlett and Dr. Florence Jameson for their significant contributions in the areas of education, income and health respectively. The philanthropic organization enlisted 16 new members as a result of the event, and now benefits from a network of 89 local influential women who are tasked with raising money for United Way’s community-based agenda to promote lasting change.

“We are thrilled to welcome the newest members of the Women’s Leadership Council, who have been moved by United Way’s mission of creating lasting change and improving lives,” stated Beth Miller, United Way’s vice president, major gifts. “The luncheon was the perfect way to launch what we expect to be an exciting, meaningful year ahead of giving, advocating and volunteering to advance the common good in southern Nevada.”

The luncheon was held at Caesars Palace on Feb. 24 and featured an empowering keynote address by Marilyn Winn, president of Bally’s, Rio and Paris Las Vegas. Over the past year, the Women’s Leadership Council has raised more than $200,000 in support of United Way of Southern Nevada. Its 2009 goal is $250,000, which will contribute to United Way’s total 2008-2009 campaign fundraising goal of $14 million.

About United Way of Southern Nevada’s Women’s Leadership Council
The Women’s Leadership Council, co-chaired by Cathy A. Jones and Judy Kropid, brings local female leaders to the front line to address the community’s most pressing needs. Members of the Women’s Leadership Council have committed an annual, individual investment of $2,500 or more to United Way of Southern Nevada, and enjoy benefits such as participation in meaningful leadership and educational activities, hands-on volunteer involvement, executive-level networking opportunities, favorable tax benefits, and visible recognition as a woman leader. Now with 89 members, the council expects to increase its membership to 100 in 2009. For more information about joining the Women's Leadership Council email BethM@uwsn.org.