
OUR MISSION
Eleanor by Women United strives to connect and empower women in our community, and together we champion for all women’s health, education, and financial security.
OUR STORY
In 2016 our Founder established The Eleanor Project. Largely inspired by the work and wisdom of Eleanor Roosevelt, The Eleanor Project sought to inspire, empower, and connect the women of our community. In 2020 The Eleanor Project merged with Women United—an affinity group of United Way—to form Eleanor by Women United.
Our members represent the diversity of women in our community. We are united by our appreciation for the female experience, and the desire to connect with and empower each other.
We are Eleanor by Women United.
LEADERSHIP

UNITED WAY OF SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY PRESIDENT & CEO
Kristen Birtwhistle

ELEANOR BY WOMEN UNITED DIRECTOR
Najja Haynes
ELEANOR BY WOMEN SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR
Denise Hernandez
PILLARS OF IMPACT
Eleanor by Women United is committed to advancing the well-being and opportunities of women in San Joaquin County. Our work is guided by four core Pillars of Impact that shape how we engage, empower, and support our community.
MEMBERSHIP
Our membership pillar focuses on growing and strengthening the Eleanor by Women United community. Through strong membership engagement, we cultivate a diverse and active network of women dedicated to uplifting one another and driving community impact. This includes:
- Hosting membership information sessions to share our mission and invite new members to join
- Providing consistent digital outreach so members stay informed about local issues, upcoming events, and program updates
- Creating space for connection through casual meetups, community gatherings, and peer networking
- Building a welcoming environment where women feel supported, connected, and motivated to participate
ADVOCACY & POLICY SUPPORT
Advocacy is at the heart of sustainable change. This pillar is centered on amplifying the voices of women and urging structural change that promotes equity and opportunity. Through collective action, we help influence policies and systems that support women and families. Our advocacy efforts include:
- Building strategic partnerships with key leaders, policymakers, and community organizations
- Educating and empowering our members with current data and insights on the status of women in San Joaquin County
- Equipping members with tools and knowledge to confidently engage in advocacy efforts
- Raising awareness around systemic issues that impact women’s health, safety, economic stability, and overall well-being
EVENTS & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
We design and offer year-round, mission-driven events and volunteer opportunities that allow members and prospective members to engage meaningfully. These activities strengthen our community, elevate our mission, and open doors for deeper involvement. This pillar includes:
- Networking events that bring women together to learn, connect, and grow
- Volunteer opportunities aligned with our mission to support women, youth, and families
- Signature gatherings that highlight women’s leadership and contributions
- Spaces that foster collaboration, relationship-building, and empowerment
RESOURCES
Our resource pillar focuses on providing accessible, reputable, and relevant information to support members’ personal, educational, and professional journeys. By equipping women with reliable and impactful resources, we help ensure they have the tools needed to flourish in all areas of life. Resources may include:
- Information on women’s health and well-being
- Educational tools and learning opportunities that promote continued growth
- Financial empowerment resources that support stability, independence, and long-term success
- Connections to community programs, services, and partner organizations
MEMBERSHIP
Eleanor By Women United Membership offers a vibrant community for women dedicated to empowerment and impact. Connect with like-minded individuals, support our Women's and Girls' Empowerment Initiatives, and access exclusive events for personal and professional growth. By joining us, you're contributing to positive change and fostering a network that uplifts and supports women in all aspects of their lives. Memberships are valid for a full calendar year from the date of purchase.
Exclusive Benefits Include:
- Annual Event Tickets: 50% discount on tickets to all EWU events.
- Priority Event Access: Priority seating for signature events.
- Enhanced Directory Placement: Be prominently featured within your industry in the members-only directory, including your business logo, contact details, and an option to include your name, phone number, and/or email. This elevated visibility ensures fellow members know how to connect with you and your business for collaboration and support.
- Exclusive Decals: Women-Owned and Operated (WOO) Decal (if applicable), and Executive Partner Decal, a unique decal to showcase Executive Partner status, available only at this level.
- Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Invitation-only access to premium networking events with EWU leaders, other Executive Partners, and key community figures
- Recognition at Events: Acknowledgment at EWU events as a valued Executive Partner
Benefits Include:
- Event Ticket Discounts: Discount on all event tickets
- Networking Access: Invitation to EWU networking events and community gatherings.
- Elevated Directory Listing: Receive an exclusive listing in the members-only directory with the option to be listed as an individual or a business/organization. Your placement includes your name, and if desired, your contact details and website, making it easy for fellow members to connect with you for collaboration and support.
- WOO Decal: Women-Owned and Operated (WOO) decal and digital badge (if applicable).
Benefits Include:
- Event Ticket Discounts: Discount on all event tickets
- Networking Access: Access to EWU networking events and community gatherings.
- Exclusive Directory Access: Enjoy access to the members-only directory to connect with fellow members. If desired, your name, phone number and/or email will be included in the directory so members may connect with you.
Benefits Include:
- Event Ticket Discounts: Discount on all event tickets
- Networking Access: Access to EWU networking events and community gatherings.
- Exclusive Directory Access: Enjoy access to the members-only directory to connect with fellow members. If desired, your name, phone number and/or email will be included in the directory so members may connect with you.
UPCOMING EVENTS
There are no upcoming events. Check back for updates!
TYPES OF EVENTS
SIGNATURE EVENTS
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Our Signature Events are a celebration of women's achievements, resilience, and devotion. These upscale gatherings bring together a diverse audience to honor the trailblazing women in our community. Featuring captivating panels, powerful performances, inspiring speakers, music, and more, these events create an atmosphere of inspiration and empowerment.
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Signature Events provide an opportunity to connect, learn, and be uplifted by the stories of women who are making history and impacting the world around them.
MEMBERS ONLY EVENTS
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Our Members Only Events are where connections and collaborations come to life. Exclusively for our valued members, these gatherings provide a space for building lasting relationships, fostering business opportunities, and supporting one another's journeys. As members connect and share their experiences, they contribute to the growth of a powerful community of women united in their goal of empowering and advancing the women of our community. The more our membership community flourishes, the greater our collective impact becomes.
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Members Only events are free for our members; however, registration is still required.
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY
An exclusive connection to a powerful network of local women leaders, change makers, and community advocates.
As a valued member of EWU, you have access to this private directory to foster meaningful connections, collaborations, and continued engagement with fellow members. Whether you're looking to reach out for mentorship, partner on a project, or simply expand your professional network, this resource is here to support and strengthen our community.
Member Access Only
This directory is accessible only to current Eleanor by Women United members. Please enter your password to view the full listing. If you need assistance accessing the directory, contact us using the information below.
Need to Update Your Information?
Keeping your information up to date helps us ensure a strong and accurate network. To request changes or updates to your membership listing, please email Denise Hernandez at dhernandez@unitedwaysjc.org.
LET'S CONNECT
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GET IN TOUCH
If you have questions feel free to contact Najja Haynes at nhaynes@unitedwaysjc.org or call the United Way office at 209.469.6980.