Mission Statement - The Women's Leadership Circle is committed to engaging women by helping others through the giving of Time, Talent and Treasures and making a lasting difference by giving to our United Way.

Click here for a printable copy of the Women’s Leadership Circle Brochure

“It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”      -Mother Teresa

By joining the United Way Women’s Leadership Circle:

• You will become a pioneer in the philanthropic field.
• You will improve the partnership between women and United Way through volunteerism and financial support.
• You will have the opportunity to combine your strength and compassion with other   women in order to make a difference.
• You will help raise contributions that are specifically earmarked to assist women and children.
• You will  engage in activities that support and assist the development and advancement of women and children in the Bismarck-Mandan and surrounding communities.
• You will serve in an advisory capacity to the Missouri Slope Areawide United Way.

Some of the programs that benefit and assist women and children are:

• Girl Scouts
• Burleigh County Senior Adults
• Charles Hall Youth Services
• Catholic Charities of ND
• Lutheran Social Services
• Retired Volunteer Program (RSVP)
• Village Family Services
• Abused Adult Resource Center
• Youthworks
• Aid, Inc.

Impacting the Community
This touching story was written by Lindsie Shoenack, a volunteer with the local Big Brothers Big Sisters, about her relationship with her Little Sister, Kristina.
I met my little sister” Kristina almost two years ago. Prom that moment, the similarities between us were uncanny. Our mothers share a birthday; our birthdays are in the same month; breaking limbs at a young age; sharing the same interest in sports. Kristina and I discovered new similarities every time we visited.

          Kristina was a few weeks shy of her 13th birthday when we met. She’s 16 now, but has the wisdom and candor of a person much older. I have learned a great deal from her, and she from me. Just this week, Kristina was relaying to me the importance of “letting things be and not forcing things that are not meant to happen” in life. This kind of wisdom I have only learned in the last year.

          Kristina and I have done many new and different things together. We have visited the animals at Pet Connection (she reminds me of this when we talk about picking out our adopted dog), cooked dinner together, tried new recipes (some good, some bad), and walked our dog (who adores her).

          Kristina has spoken to my Girl Scout troop about how to “Be our Best: We’ve Christmas shopped together, and gone to movies. I’ve attended her basketball games, and we’ve watched several games at the University of Mary. Each activity has been a pleasure and a joy as I get to know this girl who is funny, caring, smart, and athletic. I know that, at age 16, she could be doing many things with her friends every week. However, she chooses to continue to spend time with our family. While visiting with Kristina this week, she was reminiscing about our first “big—little outing.” She said. “I remember meeting you and then I remember not ever feeling uncomfortable or nervous about going with you.” It warms my heart to hear her say that.  

          I have seen our friendship progress from getting to know each other to a trust where she is able to share with me about life and choices she must make. I truly feel that the BBBS mission of helping children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-on-one relationships with measurable impact is resonating with Kristina. Above all, I would like to convey how much she has positively affected my life, as well. I have realized the impact that one person can have on another through volunteering. I have opened my heart to a person whom [probably would not have met otherwise. That alone has been immeasurable. I cannot say enough about what this young woman has meant to me. She brings such a great attitude, smiles, and laughter each week. I am grateful and blessed that we met. Long after she graduates from high school and life takes her on different journeys, she will have a place in my heart and family.
Thank you, Big Brothers Big Sisters for introducing Kristina into my life. CM

This story first appeared in the Summer
2006 issue of ‘Big News,” the newsletter of Big
Brothers Big Sisters of Bismarek-Mandan. Call
BBBS at 701-222-0797 if you’d like to help.
BBBS is supported by Missouri Slope Areawide United Way.