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.
Why WIP?
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.
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.
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
SC Count Me In
Phone bank City of Columbia residents are needed to help ensure a complete and accurate 2020 Census Count. Volunteers will receive a set list and specific script. This allows individuals to place calls from the convenience of their home. Each list has 50 numbers, so we like to say that give yourself 3 hours.
WIP at St. Lawrence Place
WIP Volunteers are needed to provide breakfast or lunch for the children participating in virtual learning at St. Lawrence Place.
