WEST PALM BEACH — United Way of Palm Beach County’s Women United is a group of 450 local female leaders dedicated to empowering the next generation of youth in Palm Beach County with the skills and tools needed for success. Most recently, Women United rallied their members to promote literacy among underserved youth in our community.

Each spring, Women United traditionally hosts a literacy event with one of United Way’s partner nonprofits in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday to encourage the love of reading in kids in kindergarten through third grade. Due to the pandemic, they pivoted this annual event into a book drive in partnership with Farmworker Coordinating Council of Palm Beach County (FWCC) to give their students access to new books.

After sharing this drive with Women United’s members, more than $500 was raised and over 500 books were donated, including donations from United Way of Palm Beach County partners like the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, and Resource Depot.

“The Women United book drive perfectly illustrates the energy and impact that can happen when local female leaders work together to make a difference and empower the next generation of young people,” shared Laurie George, President & CEO, United Way of Palm Beach County.

FWCC plans to distribute the books to the youth in their programs.

“These books will complement the Farmworker Coordinating Council’s food distribution and educational efforts to help us nourish our students’ bodies and minds. We are grateful for the partnership and support of United Way of Palm Beach County and Women United,” commented Carlos Perez, Executive Director of Farmworker Coordinating Council.

Women United continues its efforts to share experiences and inspiration with young people across Palm Beach County. On April 24, Women United will host its This Girl Can! Workshop to provide virtual career inspiration and leadership training to local middle school girls. More information on that event can be found here: https://unitedwaypbc.org/event/this-girl-can-career-inspiration-for-young-women/