On May 1, 2025, City Manager Joan Walls and Equity and Engagement Director Rachel Joy participated in the 11th Annual Power of the Purse held at Pear Tree Estates. This significant yearly fundraiser, organized by the United Way through its Women United group, harnesses the generosity of attendees via engaging silent and live auctions specifically to strengthen local support systems. The event successfully generated over $100,000 this year – a testament to the community’s commitment to collective well-being. These vital funds are directly channeled back into programs that make a tangible difference in residents’ lives, providing essential services like safe emergency shelter for families facing crisis, opening doors to higher education and opportunity through scholarships, and boosting student potential with targeted initiatives designed to close literacy gaps. This successful fundraising effort directly contributes to the stability, education, and overall resilience of our community.