Contact: Mark Skala, Cape and Islands United Way
Phone: 508-775-4746
Email: mskala@uwcapecod.org
Website: www.capeandislandsuw.org
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Cape & Islands United Way’s Power of the Purse Returns October 14, Celebrating Women, Community and Local Impact
 
HYANNIS, MA — September 2026 — The Cape & Islands United Way and Women United will bring together more than 150 community leaders, philanthropists, and professionals for the annual Power of the Purse on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the Hyannis Port Club.
 
One of Women United’s signature events, Power of the Purse is an evening of connection, inspiration and philanthropy featuring cocktails, food, a silent auction, and recognition of two women whose leadership has made a significant impact across the Cape and Islands.
 
This year, Lee Ann Hesse will be honored as the 2026 Woman of Impact, while Tammy Leone, Executive Director of Cape Kid Meals, will receive the 2026 Community Spirit Award.
 
Hesse, whose selection as the 2026 Woman of Impact was announced earlier this year, will be recognized for more than 35 years of leadership, philanthropy and volunteer service in the Cape Cod community. Her contributions include helping establish the Cape & Coast Bank Charitable Foundation, which has awarded more than $1 million in grants to 150 local nonprofits, along with extensive board service and mentorship of future community leaders.
 
Leone first became involved with Cape Kid Meals as a volunteer in 2016 and has since become a driving force in the organization’s work to address childhood hunger across Cape Cod. Under her leadership, Cape Kid Meals has grown from serving two schools to partnering with 53 schools across 15 towns, providing weekend meals, school snacks and pantry resources to more than 2,200 children each week.
 
The Community Spirit Award recognizes Leone’s leadership, compassion and commitment to ensuring local children have consistent access to nutritious food.
 
Proceeds from Power of the Purse support the work of Women United, an initiative of the Cape & Islands United Way focused on creating opportunities for women and families with young children to get a stronger start in life.
 
Through Women United, local support helps provide Community Baby Showers for expectant mothers in need; scholarships for female students at Cape Cod Community College; early literacy resources through Reach Out and Read; and investments in community organizations serving women, children and families throughout the region.
 
Tickets for Power of the Purse are on sale now, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy an inspiring evening of connection, seasonal cocktails, delicious food and the always-popular handbag auction, all while supporting programs that make a meaningful difference for women and families across the Cape and Islands.
 
A limited number of VIP tickets are also available and include special perks such as early event access, reserved seating, a curated gift bag and first-look bidding opportunities on select designer handbags.
 
With more than 150 attendees expected, those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their tickets early.
 
Win the “It Bag” of the Season
 
Those who can’t attend, or want another way to support the cause, can participate in this year’s “It Bag” Raffle, sponsored by Rip Tide LLC, for a chance to win a Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM.
 
Raffle tickets are $50 each, with proceeds benefiting the Cape & Islands United Way and its work throughout the community. The winner will be drawn at Power of the Purse on October 14 and does not need to be present to win.
 
Tickets to Power of the Purse and “It Bag” raffle entries are available now through the Cape & Islands United Way and can be purchased online at capeandislandsuw.org/pop.
 
EVENT DETAILS
 
Power of the Purse
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Hyannis Port Club
Presented by Cape & Islands United Way and Women United
For tickets, raffle entries and additional information, visit capeandislandsuw.org.
 
About the Cape & Islands United Way
 
The Cape & Islands United Way is committed to improving lives and strengthening communities across Cape Cod and the Islands by mobilizing people, resources and partnerships to address the region’s most pressing needs. Through strategic investments, community collaboration and initiatives including Women United, the organization works to create lasting local impact.