WOMEN IN PHILANTHROPY - A POSITIVE FORCE

At the United Way of Essex and West Hudson, we recognize and applaud the talents of women. By unleashing their strengths, we can generate a positive force in our community and provide women with some of the most rewarding, challenging and uplifting experiences and relationships of their lifetime.

United Way of Essex and West Hudson Women's Leadership Council (WLC) hosted an April event with an educational and social aspect. Founded in 2004 by United Way Board of Trustee, Dr. Sabina Porcaro-Petillo and former United Way Board of Trustee President, Linda Spradley-Dunn, the WLC identified the needs of women and families affected by HIV/AIDS within our local community.

The first WLC luncheon at Newark Liberty International Airport with UW Board of Trustee member and Airport manager Susan Baer as the keynote speaker and was attended by over 60 women. Building upon the positive response to the event in June 2005, Dr. Porcaro-Petillo hosted a panel discussion with nationally-known experts from the Gates Foundation and specialists speaking about the issues facing women with HIV/AIDS both here in the US and abroad. From that meeting came the Women's Leadership Council steering committee.

On April 6, 2006, over 100 women gathered at the Newark Museum to experience the passion behind a community program that is committed to supporting women and families affected by HIV/AIDS. The evening began with a private tour of the exhibit OFF THE PEDESTAL New Women in the Art of Homer, Chase and Sargent.

The focus of the evening became serious as Dr. Sabina Porcaro-Petillo presented women in attendance with the charge of the WLC: addressing the needs of women and families affected by HIV/AIDS within our local community. Their mission is to raise funds to address the needs of women and families affected by HIV/AIDS through mobilizing the caring power of women in our communities. Brenda Boone, HIV Prevention Counselor at Isaiah House spoke candidly about her diagnosis and living with this disease for the past 22 years. Her personal mission of HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention and a positive outlook gave a very personal face to the WLC's mission. Ms. Boone has been named an honorary member of the Women's Leadership Council and vows to work diligently with the women in their commitment to Essex and West Hudson's women and families.

In the fall of 2005, the Women's Leadership Council steering committee partnered with the UW CARES Vision Council. The Women's Leadership Council strives to encourage women to become philanthropists, and volunteer their expertise to create solutions to meet the needs of the Essex and West Hudson community. Through their partnership with the UW CARES Vision Council and the community this goal is being attained. To date there are 21 Council members, contributing over $22,000.

The future for the WLC includes events for women that offer networking, education, and enjoyment with a philanthropic purpose. It is our objective to learn more about our ability to effect change in the community.

For more information on the Women's Leadership Council contact Sarah Brelvi, call 973-624-8300 ext 230.

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