Membership Updates and FAQ
How has the membership structure changed?
Beginning in 2025, we’re introducing a $1,000+ annual giving level as part of our Women United membership. This change reflects the growing needs in our community and ambition of our work: to help more women and their families find pathways out of poverty and achieve financial security. This change helps us invest in long-term solutions that empower local women such as workforce training, stable housing and retirement planning. We are committed to remaining inclusive and accessible for all women.
What if I can’t give $1,000 right now?
If $1,000 isn’t doable right now, we invite you to join through our United Way Step-Up Program at $500+ and grow your gift over three years. Our Step-Up Match Fund boosts your giving to $1,000 in the first two years!
If that’s still not quite right, you can join as a Supporter and give at a level that is meaningful to you, because we believe every gift matters and every woman belongs. Supporters receive newsletters and invitations to all Women United activities.
What if I can’t give $1,000 right now?
If $1,000 isn’t doable right now, we invite you to join through our United Way Step-Up Program at $500+ and grow your gift over three years. Our Step-Up Match Fund boosts your giving to $1,000 in the first two years!
If that’s still not quite right, you can join as a Supporter and give at a level that is meaningful to you, because we believe every gift matters and every woman belongs. Supporters receive newsletters and invitations to all Women United activities.
What are the benefits of being a member? What is Lead United?
Women United members that give $1,000+ or commit to our Step-Up Program join our largest donor network, Lead United. These philanthropic leaders are dedicated to tackling the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and some of them gather throughout the year to learn, engage and connect as a community.
As a member of both Women United and Lead United, you will be invited to all activities hosted by both donor networks, expanding your opportunities for connection with like-minded business and community leaders. You’ll also be invited to celebrate your impact, together, with complimentary tickets to our annual member appreciation event, Small Plates, Big Impact.
How do I join Women United?
Please opt in each year to keep your membership status active, either through our interest form or when you pledge your annual gift.
If you give through our online portal or ePledge: check the box on your pledge form to opt in as a Member or Supporter.
If you give through a third party or have already pledged your gift for the year, please fill out our interest form to opt in.
Does my gift directly support Women United funded programs?
Joining Women United adds you to our Member and Supporter rosters, but it doesn’t change how your annual gift is invested. When you give an undesignated gift, you are supporting United Way’s Plan for Community Well-Being, our comprehensive strategy for addressing Dane County’s most urgent needs.
A donation from longtime supporters Dan and Patti Rashke and their Dan & Patti Rashke (TASC) Family Foundation amplifies the impact of your generosity by covering the administrative costs connected to undesignated, individual giving.
If you’d like your gift invested in women’s financial security, you can indicate that in the Optional Directed Giving section of your pledge and direct all or part of your gift to the Financial Security focus area. Directed gifts will have no administrative costs applied, ensuring 100% of your gift supports local programs within this focus area.