Western New York has a long and proud heritage of generosity and caring through philanthropic suppport and volunteerism. As rich as we are in caring, our community is challenged, as are all communities, to keep our eyes on the future and to encourage the next generation of philanthropists. With this vision in mind, the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County created the Emerging Leaders Society within our Leaders of Change program.

Mission

The Emerging Leaders Society (ELS) is a diverse group of community-minded individuals committed to building a better future for our community, through charitable giving and active involvement. The Emerging Leaders Society encourages a social, educational, and civic relationship among young business professionals and community leaders, and serves as a networking forum to encourage community awareness.

Members

ELS is comprised of just under 400 Leaders of Change in their 20's, 30's and 40's. Members of United Way's Emerging Leaders Society are committed to improving the quality of life in our community and to growing both personally and professionally. They understand that the stronger and healthier we are as a community, the more successful we'll be as individuals and organizations.

Service

ELS members have the opportunity to participate in collaborative projects with Community Care funded programs throughout the year, allowing them to have hands-on volunteer experiences with their families.

Through ELS Board Leadership Training, members are afforded the opportunity to offer their time, talent, and resources to boards and committees in the community.

During the annual United Way Campaign, Emerging Leaders serve as ambassadors for United Way. As ambassadors, they play a vital role in educating potential new members about the work of United Way, the importance of Community Care, and the benefits of ELS.

Benefits

Members of the Emerging Leaders Society enjoy:

• Invitations to special events and local cultural activities throughout the year.
• Networking opportunities with prominent community leaders.
• Participation in community-building projects and volunteer committees.
• Access to Board Leadership Training, development, and placement assistance.
• A variety of different professional and personal learning opportunites.

Because of our generous sponsors, all Emerging Leaders Society events, trainings, and luncheons are free and exclusive to ELS members!

Join Today

This engaged and dynamic group offers you multiple avenues to become involved with both the United Way and the community!

Individuals in their 20's, 30's and 40's, who annually contribute an individual or combined gift of $ 1,000 to the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County as Leaders of Change can become members of the Emerging Leaders Society.

Programs of the Emerging Leaders Society are made possible through the generous sponsorship of Univera Healthcare and Savarino Construction.

Call us at 716-887-2686, or email us at kelly.wilkens@uwbec.org to have a pledge card and ELS materials sent to you today!