Power of the Purse 2026
We couldn’t have been more thankful for the perfect spring day for our fourth annual Power of the Purse event, hosted by the Women’s Leadership Council of United Way of Northwest Georgia. The skies were clear, spring was in full bloom, and more than 340 local women gathered at Walnut Hill Farm on April 29 to connect, laugh, and leave inspired.
Together, we raised critical funds to support United Way’s literacy initiatives, Community Partners, and programs that help individuals and families move toward self-sufficiency—made possible by the generosity of our sponsors, purse donors, and guests. Thank you for making it a day to remember!
Purpose Behind the Purses
Yes, the purses and gift baskets were stunning—10 in total, featuring everything from designer favorites to curated local finds—but this event is about so much more.
Every ticket purchased, every membership, and every raffle entry fuels real change. Together, we’re helping individuals build stability and creating a stronger, more connected community.
The Day’s Highlights
The day began with check-in, hugs, and reconnections with friends—both old and new. Guests had a blast at our photo booth by Marq It Up, and ARC Studios and Jessica Carnes captured all the smiles and style!
United Way President Amanda Burt welcomed everyone and gave a huge shoutout to our sponsors, purse donors, and every guest who helped make this day so special.
Designer Level Sponsor:
Shaw Industries
Handbag Level Sponsors:
Brown Whitworth Reynolds Foundation • Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty • Debbie Macon • Emerald Carpets • Engineered Floors • Marketing Alliance Group • Mohawk Industries • Nancy Collins, Fairway Mortgage • Textile Rubber & Chemical Company Inc.
Clutch Level Sponsors:
BDL Advisors • Dalton Utilities • Diann Thompson • Kinard Family • Walnut Hill Farm
Wristlet Level Sponsors:
Perry Property Partners • Steve & Cathy Snyder • Truist Wealth: The Baigas, Rabinowitz, Upton Group
Pouch Level Sponsors:
Barbara Adamson Interiors • Cara Sandlin • CMI Designs • Hamilton Vitruvian Health • Karen Gonzalez • Raspberry Row • Simply Organized by Carla Fain • The Spa on Cuyler • The Pine Needle
Amanda also shared a snapshot of the impact behind the Women’s Leadership Council—more than 300 members strong, investing over $1.6 million each year into local solutions. Talk about women getting things DONE!
Keynote Speaker: Ellen Skrmetti
A special thank you to Ellen Skrmetti for making us laugh, lifting us up, and leaving us inspired with a message we won’t soon forget:
“Dreams don’t have deadlines.”
That’s a Wrap!
To our incredible Women’s Leadership Council: thank you for your dedication and for pouring your hearts into this event. Power of the Purse has become one of our most fun, fabulous, and meaningful fundraisers—and that’s all because of YOU.
As one guest said, “This is the BEST event of the year!”
We couldn’t agree more. Thank you to everyone who came out, bought a ticket, donated a purse, or simply showed up to support. This event wouldn’t be what it is without you. 💜
Mark your calendars for April 2027—you won’t want to miss it! To be the first to hear about next year’s event or to donate a purse, reach out to Amy Ross or Stephanie Hogshead.
📸 Click here to view our 2026 Facebook album!
📱 Follow along on social: @unitedwaynwga