History of Women Who Lead

(Women Who Lead began in September, 2017 and was initially named Wonder Women League.  Due to a conflict with DC Comics and the potential association with Wonder Woman, the organization’s name was changed to Women Who Lead in October, 2023.)

Nancy Jeter, recently retired as director of Big Brothers Big Sisters, was asked by Sherry Dryden, United Way director to serve as the 2017 Campaign Chair.  Nancy believed there were other women like her who genuinely care about making our community better, but didn’t really know where to begin, often thinking they alone are not able to make much of a difference. 

In an effort to raise money for the campaign and engage women in making a positive change in their community, a luncheon was planned.  It was called “Power of the Purse” because women often make monetary decisions on charitable giving in their households.  Local businesses and friends were asked to donate a handbag for a purse raffle and auction, a guest speaker was secured, invitations were mailed, and Power of the Purse was held mid-September, 2017.

Over 50 women attended and as a result, Wonder Women League was created by a small group of 26 women who wanted to make a positive difference in the community. Nancy and Rhonda Meyerhoff served as co-chairs of the newly formed organization. It was decided to name the organization Wonder Women League because the United Way’s theme was “Heroes in Action”.  They held the belief, that as a group with a shared vision, they could accomplish great things and make a positive impact in their community……and they did.

Wonder Women League greatly appreciated the opportunity to operate under the umbrella of the United Way. It was an advantage to be able to utilize their 501c3 classification and have the approval of United Way due to their excellent reputation in the community.  Wonder Women League’s goal is to complement, not compete, with the United Way and many of our projects have focused on helping with United Way’s Community Impact Initiatives.

Wonder Women League became an independent 501(c)3 organization in September, 2023 with the new name of Women Who Lead.  Since that first Power of the Purse, the group has grown to over 160 members who have made a profound impact in their community with lasting projects that make Ellis County a better place to live.  

See a list of the many projects Women Who Lead has been a part of since it’s inception in 2018.