Women's Initiative
Strengthening Girls. Empowering Women.
Ignite positive change for girls through philanthropy and women's leadership.
Women's Initiative of the United Way of Central Massachusetts is a dedicated group of women volunteers committed to improving and empowering the lives of adolescent girls. Partnering with volunteer committees of female community leaders, the Women’s Initiative engages hundreds of members and donors to support programs that reduce the incidence of violence affecting girls ages 9-15 (grades 4-*) through mentoring, educational opportunities, and financial literacy.
The Women’s Initiative was established in 2002 by Lois Green and Meridith Wesby who joined forces with other influential women leaders in Central Massachusetts to raise funds to prevent and reduce violence in the lives of adolescent girls in the community.
BECOME…
a Member
Join like-minded women focused on cultivating a leadership network, community engagement, and addressing girls needs in Central Massachusetts. Annual membership is $100.
Invest in real impact for girls and women
Drive community change, locally and nationally
Network with women who have a passion for the community
Develop your personal and professional skills
Participate in events and volunteer projects that make a meaningful difference in our community
Sign up today!
INVOLVED
Leadership Council: Work as a member of the leadership team to help drive overall strategy and direction
Community Impact: Help determine the distribution of funds raised by Women’s Initiative and evaluate their impact
Diversity: Develop WI’s diversity, racial equity, and inclusion strategy
Financial Literacy: Support the execution and growth of Financial Literacy programming
Fundraising Strategy: Provide input and development of fundraising strategies
Marketing & Membership: Develop recruitment and retention programs to grow membership while generating awareness of Women’s Initiative
EVENTS
The Women’s Initiative hosts annual fundraising and member events to drive awareness of our philanthropic and leadership group, highlight our support of adolescent girls, and raise funds to increase our impact.
For more information and to register, contact Anabelle Santiago at anabelle.santiago@unitedwaycm.org.
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Dollar Scholar
Empowering Youth Through Financial Literacy
Money matters — and 70% of young girls feel unprepared to manage their finances. That’s where Dollar Scholar steps in.
Through interactive workshops and real-life simulations, students learn essential skills like budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and managing debt. This hands-on approach builds confidence, independence, and financial security.
Contact
Idaliana Medina, Director of Community Engagement
idaliana.medina@unitedwaycm.org
(508) 757-5631 ext. 261
Financial knowledge = a brighter future.
Studies show that financially literate individuals are more likely to avoid debt, build savings, and achieve stability.
By investing in girls today, we’re shaping financially responsible leaders for tomorrow. Join us in breaking cycles of financial insecurity — because every student deserves a strong financial foundation.
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SPONSORS
Dollar Scholar Program is made possible due to our sponsors:
Additional Sponsors: The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation, Fuller Foundation, Savers Bank