The spirit of generosity was on full display as 230 attendees gathered for this year’s Power of the Purse, an annual event hosted by Central Florida Women’s League. Now in its eighth year, this event that continues to make a meaningful difference right here in our community raised an impressive $55,000 to support local initiatives and scholarships.

At its heart, Power of the Purse is about more than fundraising—it’s about creating real, tangible impact where it’s needed most. This year, that impact included awarding $3,000 education scholarships to 11 local girls in April.

In addition to scholarships, the organization distributed four charitable grants totaling $71,000 earlier this spring. Each recipient was carefully selected through a thoughtful process that begins with member nominations and includes in-person visits by the charitable grants committee. The focus is on supporting local organizations that often receive little or no state or national funding—groups that are doing critical work but may lack the resources to meet pressing needs.

This year’s grant recipients reflect that mission:

    •    The Mustard Seed received funding for a new storage facility.

    •    The Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center will create a dedicated family resource room.

    •    New Image Youth Center will expand opportunities for students with an after-school activity bus.

    •    Samaritan Village was awarded funds for an SUV to better transport its residents.

Unlike many nonprofits, the organization behind Power of the Purse does not have a single primary charity. Instead, it intentionally seeks out underserved local organizations each year, aiming to fill gaps that might otherwise go unmet.

“What makes this so special is that we’re able to step in where there’s a real, immediate need,” one member shared. “In many cases, if we didn’t provide the funding, these organizations wouldn’t have another way to get what they need.”

Beyond the financial impact, the group is also building something equally valuable: community. Many members join not only to give back, but also to connect.

“I joined when we moved here for my husband’s job and didn’t know anyone,” one member explained. “Now I have the best support system I could ask for.”

That sense of connection is a key part of the organization’s mission. While charitable giving is the priority, members also gather for social events throughout the year, creating friendships alongside their shared purpose.

Looking ahead, excitement is already building for next year’s Power of the Purse, which will return to the Four Seasons on Friday, February 5, 2027. The group is also continuing to expand its fundraising efforts, with plans to bring back a newly launched casino night this fall.

As the organization grows, so does its invitation to others: local women who want to make a difference—and make meaningful connections along the way—are always welcome to join.

Because at the end of the day, Power of the Purse isn’t just about what’s raised. It’s about what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose.