Savannah Celebrates at Record-Breaking ‘Women Who Rule’ Event

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Attendees of the Women Who Rule event celebrate empowerment and community support.

News Summary

Over 1,000 attendees gathered at the Savannah Convention Center for the United Way of the Coastal Empire’s ‘Women Who Rule’ luncheon, honoring women leaders and raising funds for the Women United Transportation Fund. The event raised $105,000, showcasing community support and emphasizing the connection between transportation and economic stability for women. The atmosphere was festive, coinciding with local Mardi Gras celebrations, as attendees highlighted the importance of empowering women to become leaders in their communities.

Savannah Celebrates at Record-Breaking ‘Women Who Rule’ Event

This past weekend, Savannah came alive as over 1,000 attendees filled the Savannah Convention Center for a spectacular event celebrating the power and impact of women in the community. The occasion was the United Way of the Coastal Empire’s (UWCE) annual Women Who Rule luncheon, and it turned out to be more than just a fundraiser—it was a testament to all women who inspire change.

Honoring a Community Leader

At the heart of the event was the recognition of Stacy Jennings as the Woman of the Year. As the executive director of communications for the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, Jennings has spent over 30 years volunteering with UWCE, dedicating her life to uplifting others. Her experience and commitment make her a true beacon of hope and lead in the Savannah community.

Record-Breaking Fundraising Efforts

This year’s event was nothing short of extraordinary, raising an astonishing $105,000 for the Women United Transportation Fund. The luncheon itself contributed nearly $26,000, showcasing the generosity and support from the community in achieving this milestone.

Transportation Fund—A Lifeline for Women

The Women United Transportation Fund plays a crucial role in empowering women and caregivers by providing financial assistance. This fund covers essentials such as gas cards, bus passes, minor car repairs, and ride-share programs. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, the fund has already supported almost 600 women, allowing them greater access to jobs, education, and health appointments. Notably, 37% of the assistance recipients used the support for health-related appointments, emphasizing the importance of mobility in accessing essential services.

Understanding Economic Stability

The morning’s program also included an insightful panel discussion, underscoring the link between transportation and economic stability for women. Esteemed panelists such as Ivory Brown, Molly Lieberman, and Denise Watts shared their perspectives on how reliable transportation can significantly impact a woman’s ability to thrive within her community.

A Community Coming Together

With nearly 32% of households in the UWCE’s five-county area being classified as ALICE—meaning they are asset-limited, income-constrained, and employed—the discussions surrounding transportation become critical. Suzanne Kirk, the chairwoman of the event, emphasized that the community must continue to work together to ensure that reliable transportation is available for all women looking to succeed.

Celebration in the Air

As if the atmosphere needed any more excitement, the event coincided with local Mardi Gras celebrations, adding a layer of festivity and fun to the occasion. Guests enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere filled with energy, laughter, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of women across the region.

An Inspiring Message

Throughout the event, recurring themes of empowerment and community support were highlighted. The campaign’s success reflects the extensive role of the Women United Transportation Fund in fostering local women’s mobility and independence. It’s through initiatives like this that women are not only supported but are also encouraged to become leaders within their communities.

The Women Who Rule event was a beautiful reminder of the strength and resilience of women and a call to action for everyone to continue supporting their journeys. Savannah truly shone this past weekend, proving that together, we can drive change and improve lives.