My introduction to United Way Women’s Leadership Council came through an invitation to the annual luncheon. The speakers spoke about the increasing need and importance for preparing children for kindergarten. Further, I learned how United Way and Women’s Leadership Council were working together in partnership to address this need.

As a business leader, I understand the importance of looking at the core root of an issue to address the problem. As a mother, I know that education is important and getting behind at the beginning can lead to greater challenges down the line. As a compassionate person, I know that our future lies with our youth and that education is a key component for the community’s well-being.

And finding the early childhood education area of focus and the opportunity to work with other philanthropic women interested in creating an impact is why I chose United Way.

Volunteering and helping others has always been a part of my life. My parents were great role models of this and I continue to share this philosophy with my children. To further promote this within the community I accepted the role as co-chair of the Council’s Volunteer Opportunities Committee to further engage members through volunteerism.

I believe that we all need to share the gifts we have been given with others in need, whether they are financial resources, skills or time. By engaging people and focusing energy in the same direction, we can make a greater impact—it’s a we versus me approach. The Council, as an engaged and focused group, along with United Way has that momentum on early childhood education needs.

My commitment to developing the next group of women led me to sponsor a Council membership for a talented young woman. In this way, I hope to continue to create an impact by creating a ripple effect of volunteerism and philanthropy into future generations of women.

Taking the focus from me and putting it on we. That’s how I Live United.

• Read more Volunteer Profiles.