Effecting Positive Change

Emerging Leaders

Emerging Leaders

Networking powered by service. Leadership inspired by impact. Giving driven by change.

The Emerging Leaders (EL) group at United Way of Southwest Alabama is a dynamic community of young professionals aged 21-40 who are committed to effecting positive change throughout Southwest Alabama. By pooling their resources and expertise, EL members collectively contribute over $30,000 annually to support various United Way initiatives across the region.

Exclusive Benefits for Members

As an Emerging Leader, you will enjoy exclusive benefits designed to enhance your professional and community impact.

  • Build Relationships and Expand Your Network: Forge life-long friendships and valuable professional connections within diverse industries across Southwest Alabama. Enjoy priority access to social events, networking/professional development opportunities, and focused volunteer events.

  • Engage in Hands-on Volunteering Initiatives: Participate in volunteer events specially organized by United Way and the EL Steering Committee. These initiatives provide opportunities to work alongside fellow ELs and make a tangible impact in our community.

  • Gain Insights and Contribute to Solutions: Learn about the pressing needs within our community and the nonprofit organizations addressing them. Through United Way’s comprehensive approach, which focuses on fostering healthy communities, establishing financial security, expanding youth opportunities, and building community resilience, you will be actively involved in creating solutions.

Join Us

Join a network of young professionals driven by service, leadership, and change. As a member of Emerging Leaders, you’re not just donating; you’re investing in a brighter future for Southwest Alabama.

Emerging Leader membership is open to individuals aged 21 to 40 who are ready to take a step forward in their professional and personal development by contributing at the following levels:

Ages 21-30: Minimum annual contribution of $125
Ages 31-40: Minimum annual contribution of $250

Here are the ways you can begin your journey as an Emerging Leader:

  • Individual Donations: Make your qualifying donation via cash, check, debit, or credit card. Options for one-time or recurring donations are available.

    Click here to donate online today!

  • Workplace Giving Campaign: Check if your workplace has a United Way Employee Giving Campaign. Contributions through such campaigns may qualify you for Emerging Leader status. Call us at 251-433-3624 to verify your employer’s participation.

  • Employer Sponsorship: Employers can sponsor and cover employee participation fees as part of professional development. Contact United Way to arrange this.

Emerging Leaders Steering Committee

Take your community engagement to the next level. The Emerging Leader Steering Committee takes the lead in the planning and implementation of events, professional development opportunities, and volunteer initiatives. Are you interested in joining this group of dedicated peers focused on community impact? If so, contact Lauren Luckie-Merz at 251.433.3624 or [email protected] for more information.

2024 Committee

  • President: Samuel Fiebelman, Trustmark Bank

  • Vice President: Joshua Crownover, Burr Forman

  • Secretary: Katy Wrona, Communities of Transformation

  • Member at Large: Christopher Andrews, Bienville Bites

  • Member at Large: Alan Edeker

  • Member at Large: Hilary Granger, Penelope House

  • Member at Large: Nancy Manlangit, Airbus

  • Member at Large: Haley Vallas, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Gulf Coast