We are a network of community-focused leaders ages 21 and over who promote the value of volunteering, philanthropy, and advocacy to create sustainable change across Monterey County.
Emerging Leaders members are inspired to cultivate partnerships and support United Way Monterey County’s mission of connecting people, partners, and pathways to improve lives across Monterey County, while advancing our shared vision of a thriving, united community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
WHY BECOME A MEMBER?
MEMBER VOLUNTEER PROJECTS
Emerging Leaders works closely with United Way Monterey County (UWMC) to identify volunteer projects and fundraising opportunities that align with UWMC’s programs and services. Some of the volunteer projects that our Emerging Leaders has participated in are Read Across America, Stuff the Bus, and the LIVE UNITED Awards.
United Way Monterey County - in collaboration with Emerging Leaders - is dedicated to helping families achieve financial stability so that Monterey County can be a place where children succeed, families are economically self-sufficient, and each of us can lead healthy and productive lives.
For more information on volunteer opportunities, please email Crystal Lopez.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND NETWORKING
This unique and dynamic group offers members a variety of opportunities to volunteer and participate in community-building activities. Our members value the importance of investing in their community and foster that belief by interacting with local leaders and addressing issues aligned with UWMC’s focus areas: Helping families access quality child care and affordable housing, and providing a portfolio of financial support services to help families become self-sufficient.
Members also benefit from opportunities to participate in various social- and business-related events, valuable networking opportunities, and regular updates on the impact of United Way's work.
PHILANTHROPY AND ADVOCACY
Emerging Leaders hosts fundraising events that benefit programs such as Stuff the Bus, which provides school supplies for students experiencing homelessness throughout the county. We partner with businesses throughout Monterey County, such as Alvarado Street Brewery on Main, Alvarado Street Brewery Monterey, and Pizza My Heart in Monterey, to raise funds for our programs.
If you are a business interested in partnering with Emerging Leaders, please email Crystal Lopez.
READY TO JOIN?
A gift of $100 or more annually to United Way Monterey County qualifies you for membership. You can make your gift directly or through your employer's United Way Monterey County Workplace Campaign. You can choose to make a one-time gift of $100 or enroll in reoccurring payments of $8.33 until you decide to opt-out. To make any changes to reoccurring payments, please contact Crystal Lopez at crystal.lopez@unitedwaymcca.org.
EMERGING LEADERS SCHOLARSHIP
Apply for the Emerging Leaders Scholarship
Since 2020, the Emerging Leaders Society has awarded $500 scholarships to student parents working to overcome barriers to education while building brighter futures for their families.
If you're a student parent enrolled at a Monterey County college or university, we encourage you to apply.
Join the Scholarship Review Committee
Emerging Leaders Society members are invited to serve on the ELS Scholarship Review Committee, helping select this year's scholarship recipient.
Serving on the committee is a meaningful way to support local students while developing leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
What to Expect
- Review scholarship applications online during a two-week review period.
- Participate in one virtual committee meeting to discuss finalists.
- Enjoy a fully virtual process with a minimal time commitment.
Your participation helps empower student parents as they pursue their educational goals and build stronger futures for their families and our community.
Interested in Getting Involved?
To learn more about the ELS Scholarship or serving on the Scholarship Review Committee, contact Crystal Lopez at crystal.lopez@unitedwaymcca.org or (831) 318-1971.
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If you're interested in partnering with Emerging Leaders for an event, please contact Crystal Lopez by calling (831) 318-1971 or email at crystal.lopez@unitedwaymcca.org
SIGN UP TO BECOME AN EMERGING LEADERS MEMBER