Recap of Power of the Purse: A Women United Event
A woman’s handbag can be a style statement, a practical tote for life’s necessities, a proud symbol of success, a catch-all so she is always prepared. At the inaugural Power of the Purse, held at the Hyannisport Club, the purse was a metaphor for strength. More than 100 women came together on September 26th to lift up the children and families in our community, by bidding on some very special purses, bags, and accessories.
The event was hosted by Women United, an affiliate group of the Cape and Islands United Way. The fundraiser benefitted Strong from the Start, a platform of programs designed to ensure local children ages 0-3 are given the social, emotional and language skills they need to thrive.
The evening featured accomplished and dynamic women - keynote speaker Dr. Gina Barreca, author of If You Lean In, Will Men Just Look Down Your Blouse?; musician Trish LaRose, associate artist at the Cape Rep Theatre and performer of a one-woman show featured on Cape and in NYC; and Leah Kingman, auctioneer and head of the European and Decorative Arts Department at Eldred’s Auctioneers and Appraisers in East Dennis.
The real stars of the show, however, were the bags of all shapes and sizes, many filled with gift certificates for experiences and services. Some were signed, and even carried, by legends. Hot items included a Boston Bruins duffel bag, filled with team memorabilia all signed by the legendary Bobby Orr, and the Louise et Cie bag signed and owned by Elizabeth Banks, containing a five-star spa treatment and dinner at Pain d’Avignon.
Whether you won the Italian villa getaway, a top-to-bottom tote from Lilly Pulitzer, the Floridian beach vacation, or the family fun staycation - what mattered most was that the winnings went on to benefit the young children of our community, the future of Cape Cod.
