Emerging Leaders Society FAQs

Are you 40 years of age or younger? Looking for a meaningful way to make a real impact in our community? Join United Way of Lee County's Emerging Leaders Society and start changing lives today!

What is the Emerging Leaders Society (ELS)?

The ELS is a United Way affinity group composed of the next generation of leaders who want to make a positive difference in the community.

What is the mission of ELS?

The ELS will inspire, educate, and empower emerging leaders who are seeking ways to Give, Advocate, and Volunteer.

Who can join ELS?

The program is designed for leaders 40 and younger (but we're not checking ID's!). Eligibility is based on an annual undesignated gift of $250 (less than $21 per month) or more and a commitment of a minimum of 16 hours of volunteer time within our community. Donations can be made through payroll deduction or in equal monthly payments by credit card.

What are the benefits of joining ELS?

  • New member welcome package including an Emerging Leaders Society T-shirt and pin
  • Hands-on volunteer opportunities with community nonprofits and programs, including United Way partner agencies
  • Exclusive access to educational and professional development events, including invitations to exclusive Leader Lunch events with UW board members, partner agency directors, and other community leaders
  • Other networking events offered occasionally

How is ELS making a difference in our community?

ELS is hands-on and fired up! These are some of their projects and events:

  • Host annual Write Start for Students school supply drive to benefit Lee County Schools
  • Host food drives to benefit hungry families in Lee County
  • Volunteer for Summer Backpack Pals food delivery to children in Lee County
  • Volunteer for Salvation Army summer meals program
  • Salvation Army Angel Tree
  • Salvation Army bell-ringing during the holiday season
  • Serving Thanksgiving dinner at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Carolina
  • Helped at El Refugio's Festival Latino
  • Exclusive group tour of Manufacturing Day sites in Lee County
  • Assisted in the Point-in-Time Count conducted by S3 Housing Connect, Lee County's homelessness task force
  • Saved lives by participating in a Red Cross blood drive

​To join or for more information about Emerging Leaders Society, please e-mail info@leecountyunitedway.org.