What We Do
We strive to stimulate positive change in community leadership by increasing women’s involvement in the community, women’s community networks and personal development of all women involved. We promote the idea that every woman can and must be a philanthropist if the challenges facing women and families are going to be addressed.
Through social and fundraising events, such as Power of the Purse (one of the most unique events in Midlands), and educational and volunteer opportunities, WIP offers investors a variety of ways to stay involved throughout the year. There are numerous networking and personal development opportunities provided throughout each year. Additionally, we make annual grants through United Way's request for proposal (RFP) processes.
How to Join
Any donor who makes an annual contribution of $500 or more to WIP is an investor. New investors are considered WIP members as soon as their pledge is received. Pledges can be made through United Way workplace campaigns or as individual donations.
Required donation to join WIP:
- Ages 21 & up: $500 annually | $42 a month
Individuals: Give online now to join WIP!
Workplace Campaigns: Fill out this membership form to join.
Please return form to:
United Way of the Midlands
Attn: Sarah Brennecke
1818 Blanding Street
Columbia, SC 29201
OR
Scan the form carefully and email it to Sarah Brennecke.
Events
WIP offers many opportunities for socializing and philanthropic giving throughout the year, including:
-
Power of the Purse is WIP's annual signature fundraiser and features a one-of-a-kind auction of designer handbags and other unique items. Funds raised benefit WIP's grantees.
-
Our Leadership Breakfast, held each December, features a dynamic speaker and chance to network with well-known women in our community and other Women in Philanthropy investors.
-
Food for Thought breakfast series is designed to bring awareness and educate us on topics related to our signature issue: financial stability.
-
WIP on the Town is WIP's quarterly pop-up event held at different places around the Midlands.
Upcoming Events
United for the Future with Peter Buffett
Tuesday, October 22, 2019 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Please join United Way of the Midlands at the Columbia Museum of Art for United for the Future: A Concert & Conversation with Peter Buffett – a free multimedia performance filled with music, storytelling and an exclusive opportunity to participate in an interactive conversation on community...
Volunteer Opportunities
Support women in our community by volunteering with WIP!
Opportunities include:
- Reading to children in families currently experiencing homelessness
- Serving snacks to children at local homeless shelters
- Teaching life skills to women and families trying to get back on their feet
Breaking Down Barriers to Employment
This event is to provide Columbia and surrounding community members who are unemployed and underemployed with job opportunities, and resources for economic advancement. Breaking Barriers Employment Resource Fair will empower participates to realize their individual potential. This is a free event for vendors and participants.
WIP volunteers will serve as "Navigators" and will help vendors with set-up, help unload their materials from car, and help navigate participates in common areas with questions and direction. Station navigators- on first and second levels by elevators and, escalators will greet during event.
Please help us inspire these job seekers to find prospective careers by donating your time!
Ready, Willing, & Able Course
WIP is seeking volunteers to assist with the implementation of the Ready, Willing, and Able course. Overseen by WIP's grantee, Homeless No More, the Ready, Willing, and Able Program is a six week series of one hour classes on personal and professional development for a career foundation of self awareness, self confidence and life skills for employment and life. Participants keep a portfolio of strengths, areas for improvement and goals.
Volunteers will help to facilitate small group discussions and act as team leaders/facilitators. Volunteers do not need to commit to six weeks. No specific experience or training is required.
