UNITED IS THE WAY WE CARRY CHANGE: 

Power of the Purse is back again in 2026!

United Way of DeKalb County is thrilled to host a truly special edition of Power of the Purse as we celebrate 20 years of this beloved community tradition and 65 years of creating lasting local change across DeKalb County.

Join us on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the iconic Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum. Doors open at 11:00 a.m., and the program begins at 11:30 a.m.

This year’s milestone celebration brings together decades of generosity, partnership, and community spirit. Power of the Purse has grown over the past 20 years into one of our most anticipated events — a moment where neighbors come together to enjoy a beautiful luncheon, celebrate our collective impact, and invest in a brighter future for children and families in DeKalb County.

In honor of our 65th anniversary, proceeds from this event will continue driving United Way of DeKalb County’s mission across our four impact areas: strengthening families, expanding youth opportunity, improving financial security, and building community resiliency. These investments represent the heart of what United Way of DeKalb County has done for 65 years — uniting people and resources to ensure every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive.

Guests will enjoy an inspiring program, a memorable lunch experience, and the return of our beloved Pack-a-Purse Raffle, featuring thoughtfully curated handbags filled with creative surprises donated by generous community partners. Every ticket purchased and every raffle entry submitted helps fuel programs that create real, measurable impact right here in DeKalb County.

As we celebrate 20 years of Power of the Purse and 65 years of United Way of DeKalb County, we invite you to join us in honoring this incredible legacy — and helping carry it forward.

In 2026, we plan to add more tables, feature even more purses, and grow our impact further!

But we need you!  

Will you join us on April 24, 2026, for Power of the Purse?!

UNITED IS THE WAY WE CARRY CHANGE!

EVENT DETAILS

Event Name: 20th Annual Power of the Purse
Where: Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
When: April 24, 2026
Doors Open: 11:00 am | Event Start: 11:30 am  
Tickets go on sale: February 24, 2026
Ticket Price: $55
Raffle License #012908

BECOME A SPONSOR 

  • Sponsorship materials are located below.
  • Please complete the pledge form and return it via email to kirby@unitedwaydekalb.org, or mail it to:
    United Way of DeKalb County
    PO Box 307
    Auburn, IN 46706
  • The deadline for sponsorship submissions will be due by: March 13, 2026.

Opportunities - 

  • Level 1 - $2,000 (LIMIT 1)
    • Call or email Kirby to reserve
  • Level 2 - $1,500
  • Level 3 - $1,000
  • Level 4 - $500 

BECOME A PACK A PURSE DONOR

  • Donate a purse for the raffle 
    • $250 value (purse & contents)
    • Fill out the "Purse Description Form" sheet below and turn it in with your purse
  • Early Bird deadline - February 6,2026
    • be entered to win a ticket to the event!
  • Final purse donation deadline - April 3, 2026
  • Drop off to the United Way of DeKalb County office 
    • 950 W 15th St, Auburn, IN, 46706

If you have any questions or need additional information, feel free to reach out to Kirby Cool, Community Impact Coordinator, at 260-927-0995 or via email at kirby@unitedwaydekalb.org.

 

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a difference. Together, we can create another unforgettable event and continue to uplift our community! 

UNITED IS THE WAY WE CARRY CHANGE!