United Way of Lake County's 9th Annual 'Power of the Purse' Raises $15,000 to Support Childhood Literacy Programs in Lake County's Neediest Communities

Aimed at raising funds for the Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund, United Way of Lake County’s Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) hosted its 9th annual ‘Power of the Purse-2014’ on the afternoon of Sunday, November 2, 2014, at White Deer Run Golf Club in Vernon Hills. Over 120 successful women from all walks of life, changing lives in Lake County, came together to celebrate womanhood, friendship and social philanthropy. The annual fundraiser helped raise $15,000 that will be invested in critical early literacy programs. Programs that will ensure the foundation for strong and successful academic futures for Lake County’s most vulnerable children.

“The signature fundraiser event provides a critical source of funding for our Little Kids, Big Futures philanthropy fund to help advance our common good of preparing our children in Lake County to succeed in a changing world through education,” says Judy Kotsiopoulos, Chair of Power of the Purse 2014. “The generosity of our guests, the support of all our sponsors and the dedication of the council members is what makes this event such a success. As this was our 9th Power of the Purse, we certainly raised the bar in terms of fundraising and community support for years to come,” she added.

During the event, the Women’s Leadership Council members and guests enjoyed a networking champagne brunch and celebrated the special women in their life. In between bites, there were light-hearted and high-spirited contests and prizes and great raffles. In addition,guests enjoyed a shopping spree, with friend-themed silent auction baskets, centerpiece bag buy featuring trendy brands like Neiman Marcus, Relic, Charming Charlie and live auction purses with couture bags from Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and Dooney & Bourke, adding even more excitement..

United Way of Lake County recognizes the sponsors for this year’s event including, Cancer Treatment Centers of America and Gurnee Mills.