United Way of New York City raises $1 million at first in-person event after COVID-19

United Way of New York City raised nearly $1 million at its first in-person event since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 16th Annual Women United Power of Women to Make a Difference Awards Luncheon at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan earlier this month was attended by more than 400 female leaders. 

“The gathering together of our staff, Women United members, host and executive committees, board members, sponsors, guests, and honorees for the first time in two years was a powerful moment to celebrate the impact that women have on the growth and revitalization of our city,” said Eichakeem McClary, senior vice president and chief legal and administrative officer of United Way of New York City.

Proceeds from the luncheon will go to ReadNYC, an initiative that focuses on helping young people achieve grade-level reading. The event also honored successful women in public service, such as Debra-Ellen Glickstein, founding executive director of NYC Kids RISE, and Cheryl McKissack Daniel, President & CEO of McKissack & McKissack. 

“Each year we honor women who have made an impact within the community,” McClary said. “Both Debra-Ellen Glickstein and Cheryl McKissack Daniel have triumphed over the adversity that women often experience in the rise to leadership, and they serve as noteworthy examples of how important it is to persevere and how essential it is for us to continue to celebrate the victories of women leaders.”

The theme of the luncheon was women’s empowerment. For some attendees, empowerment came through professional development and economic growth, while others found it in universal childcare, paid sick leave, and first-rate public housing.

“The Power of Women to Make a Difference Awards Luncheon is a celebration of empowerment, a reminder of how far women have come,” said McClary. “And a look-ahead to a bright and promising future.”