Women United Global Leadership Council Welcomes New Members

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA July 12, 2022 — United Way Worldwide announces the appointment of five new members to the Women United Global Leadership Council. Linda Demmler, Teresa Edwards, Jan Brown Helgeson, Tessie Johnson, and Aimee Norasingh join the global advisory body that serves as a key mobilizer of women leaders and advocates for gender equity globally. 

“We are so grateful to have these leaders join the Women United Global Leadership Council to bolster our strategic harnessing of ideas, sharing effective practices, and modeling philanthropy and advocacy,” said Kimberly Smith, Chair, Women United Global Leadership Council. “The five new members are already changemakers in their local communities and we look forward to working together to mobilize the power of Women United.”

The new members underwent a rigorous nominations process and were selected by the Council for their experience, ability to contribute a diverse perspective, and proven investment in United Way’s mission. 

The new class joins as the Women United Global Leadership Council announces a focus on a singular issue within the gender equity platform - expanding access to quality, affordable, educational childcare. The COVID-19 pandemic put a strain on mothers and childcare providers with 1 in 4 women considering leaving the workforce or downshifting their career. Additionally, it is estimated that 90% of childcare franchise owners are women, over 50% are women of color and women make up 92% of childcare workers in the U.S. 

“The new members are joining at a critical time for the Council,” SMith said Kimberly Smith, Chair, Women United Global Leadership Council. “We will be working with the Women United membership, governments, and nonprofit partners to lift up innovative solutions and advocate for improved policies and increased funding for quality, affordable, educational childcare programs.” 

Women United® represents 75,000 members working with United Way in almost 200 communities. Members of the Women United Global Leadership Council serve an initial three-year term. 

To read the full bios of the members or for more information about Women United visit www.womenunited.org. 

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