- April 20, 2026
Professional women gather at the Power of the Purse event in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of the Women United Flagler chapter Facebook page.
Professional women gather at the Power of the Purse event in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of the Women United Flagler chapter Facebook page.
Professional women gather at the Power of the Purse event in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of the Women United Flagler chapter Facebook page.
Professional women gather at the Power of the Purse event in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of the Women United Flagler chapter Facebook page.
Professional women gather at the Power of the Purse event in Flagler County. Photo courtesy of the Women United Flagler chapter Facebook page.
The 17th annual Power of the Purse fundraiser brought the Flagler County community together to support local nonprofits, raising funds for programs that benefit women, children and families.
Hosted by Women United Flagler, the event highlighted the impact of community-driven philanthropy while honoring individuals dedicated to service. This year’s Woman of the Year, Linda Mahran, was recognized for her decades of involvement with United Way and her continued efforts to improve early childhood education.
“So this year I did start an endowment with the Community Foundation… it’s called the Flagler County Early Literacy Endowment,” Mahran said. “The intent… is so that children are ready for kindergarten and by the time they’re in third grade, they’re reading at a third grade level.”
Organizers emphasized that the fundraiser is about more than financial contributions. It also serves as a way to unite residents around a shared mission of strengthening the community.
“This event has brought together individuals who believe in something bigger than themselves,” said Mariotti Johnson, assistant director of finance and operations for the Flagler County Education Foundation.
Courtney Edgecomb, president and CEO of the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia and Flagler Counties, said the organization continues to focus on long-term solutions.
“For more than 85 years, we’ve been proud to serve this community… our mission is to create lasting solutions and sustainable resources for families,” Edgecomb said.
Funds raised through the event support a wide range of programs across Flagler County, including housing assistance, food programs and educational initiatives, ensuring continued support for those in need.
