Women's Initiative of United Way of Greater Toledo

09/08/2026

We are mourning the loss of an icon. 💙

Gloria Steinem spent more than six decades fighting for a world where women could define their own lives.

We are grateful that she was part of our 25 years of impact. In 2008, she was the keynote speaker for what remains one of the largest events in our history.

Standing at our podium, she reminded a room full of women that change does not come from waiting. It comes from organizing, from showing up, and from refusing to accept things as they are.

Thank you, Gloria. Your legacy will continue on through the millions of women you have empowered.

09/02/2026

Kimberly Danes saw something 25 years ago that changed our community: the power of women coming together to lift up other women and children. 💛

In two weeks, we are celebrating her and every woman who has shaped Women's Initiative into what it is today. We would love to have you in the room with us!

📅 Wednesday, September 16 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
📍 201 Morris St.
🎟️ Tickets: $35
🔗 https://events.humanitix.com/women-s-initiative-25th-anniversary-celebration

08/25/2026

There are few people in this world who leave it better than they found it. Dolly Parton was undeniably one of them. 💙

Women’s Initiative is proud and humbled to have been part of Dolly’s incredible legacy through Imagination Library, a program born from her belief that literacy could change a child’s life forever. Because of her, thousands of children right here in Toledo have grown up surrounded by books, stories, and the promise of a brighter future.

We are deeply saddened by her passing but forever grateful for the light she brought to this world and to our community.

08/19/2026

25 years of harnessing the philanthropic power of women in Greater Toledo. 💛 Next month, we are gathering to celebrate everything Women's Initiative has accomplished and we would love to have you there!

Join us for our 25th Anniversary Celebration for an unforgettable evening of reconnecting with the women who have shaped WI and meeting the future leaders who will carry it forward. This is your celebration too! 💙

📅 Wednesday, September 16 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
📍 201 Morris St.
🎟️ Tickets: $35
🔗 https://events.humanitix.com/women-s-initiative-25th-anniversary-celebration

07/29/2026

We are so excited for Pursuing Inspiration on Thursday, October 15!

Get your tickets today at https://uwtoledowomen.org!

07/21/2026

Congratulations to Mary Sabin and Pat Appold on being recognized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals!

These women have served in various roles for Women's Initiative, and we are grateful for their many contributions to our group over the past 25 years! 💙

📢✨SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

On Friday, November 6, 2026, The Association of Fundraising Professionals of Northwest Ohio (AFP NWO) will celebrate our 39th Annual National Philanthropy Day. In their longstanding partnership with AFP NWO, Greater Toledo Community Foundation will continue as the presenting sponsor for the event, bringing their support and collaboration. Each year, AFP NWO honors those who, through their hard work and dedication, have advanced philanthropy, enhanced our community and have created positive change.
Additionally, through the Community Catalyst Awards, The Greater Toledo Community Foundation, recognizes organizations that create collaborative initiative in Northwest Ohio, meaningful community change through partnership, shared leadership and measurable results. The Northwest Ohio Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals along with the Greater Toledo Community Foundation is proud to recognize 8organizations/individuals for 2026. Join us in celebrating this year's award recipients! 👏🎉

07/15/2026

25 years ago, some of Toledo's most powerful women came together with a shared vision: to build a philanthropic network dedicated to serving women and children in our community. 💙

That vision became Women's Initiative, and on Wednesday, September 16, we are recreating that founding moment to celebrate the legacy, the impact, and the incredible people who made it all possible.

This evening is a tribute to our founding members, our board members, and the thousands of women who have contributed to WI over the past quarter century. We hope you will join us as we honor what we have built and fuel the next 25 years of impact together. 💛

📅 Wednesday, September 16
📍 201 Morris St. | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets: $35
🔗 https://events.humanitix.com/women-s-initiative-25th-anniversary-celebration

06/01/2026

06/01/2026

Free tomorrow? Sign up and volunteer to help a teacher pack up their classroom! https://givepul.se/v0ukdi

Looking for a way to get involved? We have an exciting new volunteer opportunity on our platform!

Donate your lunch hour and help our local teachers close down their classrooms!

To view opportunities, and sign up, visit: unitedwaytoledo.givepulse.com/event/880332-be-a-lunch-hour-hero-for-teachers

05/22/2026

25 years of impact, celebrated in the most beautiful way. 💛

Women's Initiative was deeply honored to be recognized at the United Way of Greater Toledo's Campaign Celebration yesterday.

This anniversary belongs to every woman who has ever been part of our community.

We were so grateful to be joined by founding members Kimberly Danes and Sara Jane DeHoff for this special recognition. Their courage and vision 25 years ago planted the seeds for everything we have grown into today. Thank you for being there with us. 💙

And a huge congratulations to Jessica Biggs, recognized as an Outstanding Advocate for her exceptional service.