For some women, the opening weekend of deer hunting season means one thing: a night full of wine, food, prizes and fun.
The fifth annual Power of the Purse event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at Thunderbird Lodge. Members of United Way who organize the event are noticeably excited for the evening.
“It’s a really fun, unique thing,” organizer Julie Ehrman said of the event. “It’s an evening all about women.”
In the past, Ehrman explained the group was unsure how Power of the Purse would go over in the community. However, in the four years that it has taken place, tickets have sold out well in advance.
The evening, geared toward women, comes complete with dinner, wine tasting, live and silent auctions and raffles. Area businesses have always been very generous in donating to the cause, Ehrman said.
Organizer Jessica Crosby added, “It is a fun evening about women and how they can make a difference by giving back to the community.”
The event is one of United Way’s biggest fund raisers and all proceeds from the fun-filled night will go right back into the community, says Ehrman.
“This event helps fund the 16 charities around the area that we support,” Ehrman continued.
Organizers explained they will soon be contacting area businesses for donations. Last year, prizes to bid on or win through raffles included personal trainer sessions, Chanhassen dinner theater tickets, hotel stay packages, art by local artists and much more.
“Our goal is to raise $20,000 this year,” Ehrman explained.
Since it began in 2006, the local Power of the Purse event has generated $70,000 for the community.
“It really is great to see the support this event gets,” organizer Sherrie Lessard said.
The women spoke highly of the quality of the event and assured those who attend will not be disappointed. They explained that the evening welcomes all ages.
“We want to get a diverse group,” Ehrman said. “This event is such a great bonding and networking experience. People tell us all the time how much they cannot wait for this night to roll around every year.”
Tickets priced at $40 for the event include a chance to win a Coach purse, an opportunity to win raffle prizes and dinner, which Ehrman promised is always delicious.
With a laugh she said, “When women go out, we don’t want franks and beans — we want to be entertained and have a good meal.”
“All in all, it’s fun,” Lessard said. “It is a great time and great opportunity for women.”
For more information on how to donate to or purchase a ticket for the Power the Purse event, call Ehrman at 283-9652 or Crosby at 283-8311.
