Emerging Leaders Society (ELS)

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Connect Leaders. Cultivate Relationships.
Change Our Community.

ELS is a convener of local, young professionals. ELS members represent a new generation of leaders committed to making a difference in our community by leveraging the power of United Way to connect, serve and grow — both personally and professionally.

Congratulations to the winning team of the 2022 ELS Case Competition the Food Fighters!

As a Member, ELS:

Connects you with your peers across sectors
Introduces you to diverse leaders and unique development experiences
Offers you a variety of ways to make a significant impact in our community

Our Principles:

Listen. ELS hosts virtual conversations to be informed and connected to the voices in our community as well as ways we can support one another.
Educate. ELS takes a holistic approach to education. Whether we are developing as leaders or delivering learning experiences for youth, we seek to grow in our knowledge and understanding of ourselves and our community.
Innovate. ELS is committed to taking action through volunteerism, fundraising, and advocacy. Our members are inspired to create unique ways to cultivate community partnerships and impact positive change.

ELS Members #DoSomething BIG:

ELS members are empowered to use their passions, ideas, expertise, and resources to support education for youth in our community. ELS is committed to equipping the next generation to enter the workforce with the confidence and skills needed to be successful.

Our Impact:

250+ ELS members donate their time, money and skills in support of Education and Youth Success per year.
Since 2012, ELS members have raised more than $500,000!
- Funds raised ensure that youth participating in United Way-supported programs are receiving the support they need to enter fourth grade reading proficiently and acquiring the skills needed for high-school success.

2019 Outcomes:

In 2019, 83% of the 1,300+ middle-school youth who participated in school and out-of-school time programs, acquired the academic skills needed for high-school success
In 2019, 72% of the 3,500 elementary and middle-school students who participated in school and out-of-school time programs, improved their academic performance related to grade-level standards.

How do I get involved?

Engage with ELS on social media @UWELSCT
Attending one of our events or volunteer opportunities is another great way to become involved. Upcoming events are included in our quarterly newsletter as well as on our website.
Become a member: Your gift of $50 or more to United Way qualifies you for membership.

Join or Renew

You May Join By:

clicking ‘Join or Renew’ and selecting Emerging Leaders Society”
Payroll deduction through your company’s annual giving campaign – please select Emerging Leaders Society on your company’s electronic or paper pledge form. Contact Karen Moran at kmoran@unitedwayinc.org with any questions.
Mailing a check to: United Way, Attn: ELS, 30 Laurel Street, Hartford, CT 06106

ELS Membership Levels and Benefits:

ELS members access a variety of unique networking, volunteer, and professional development experiences, receive exclusive invitations to United Way events as well as volunteer leadership positions. Gold-level members are recognized as leadership investors ($1,000+) in United Way’s Annual Leadership Giving Publication.