United Way Women's Philanthropy Connection to Host Author

WATERLOO, IA—Cedar Valley United Way’s Women’s Philanthropy Connection (WPC) invites the public to its education event “A Framework for Understanding Poverty” Wednesday, May 14 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Cedar Falls.

The event will begin with an 11:30 a.m. lunch followed by a presentation by Ruby Payne, Ph.D., author of “A Framework for Understanding Poverty” and co-author of “Bridges Out of Poverty.”

Payne, author, speaker, publisher, business owner and career educator, is an expert on the mindsets of economic classes and on crossing socioeconomic lines in education, work and for social change. Her book, “A Framework for Understanding Poverty,” has sold more than 1 million copies, and her collaboration with other educators has touched countless lives with practical, proven strategies for helping others succeed.

Payne’s work stems from more than two decades of firsthand experience in the public schools—as school department head, principal and central office administrator of staff development, where she became known for helping students from all economic backgrounds to achieve academic success.

“United Way and the Women’s Philanthropy Connection are excited to be able to offer this educational opportunity to the Cedar Valley,” Angie Fuller, WPC chair for the education committee, said. “A greater understanding of the socioeconomic issues people face can help us all create a positive change in our community.”

An opportunity for questions will follow Payne’s presentation.

The Women’s Philanthropy Connection started as an endeavor of Cedar Valley United Way in 2008 and focuses on empowering women to create real and lasting improvement in people’s lives. Its mission is to help women express their philanthropic passion through education, mentoring and volunteering. WPC membership is open to women who are at an annual giving level of at least $1,000 to Cedar Valley United Way or $500 if 40 or younger. Giving can be on an individual basis or through combined household giving. Members can choose to participate solely through their giving or through their giving and volunteering on WPC projects such as Women to Women Career Mentoring—a joint project with Hawkeye Community College.

Tickets for the event are $30 for Women’s Philanthropy Connection members, $35 for community members, $25 for students and $240 for a table of eight. Registrations for the event are being taken online at www.cedarvalleyunitedway.org or by calling Cedar Valley United Way at 319-235-6211.

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