Women United’s next chapter: meet our new co-chairs
Women United is a dynamic philanthropic collective dedicated to addressing our community’s most pressing needs. Our nearly 2,000 strong and passionate members represent a wide variety of age groups, backgrounds, workplaces, and interests and are committed to improving our community.
This spring, Women United welcomed two new co-chairs: Megan Gilson, vice president and client and community relations director at PNC Bank, and Tina Morascyzk, senior vice president of enterprise real estate at Giant Eagle. We sat down with Megan and Tina to learn what fuels their dedication to United Way, what excites them about their new leadership roles and their hopes for the future of Women United. Read on to hear their stories.
What inspired you to get involved with Women United?
Tina: I was first introduced to United Way and Women United through my workplace United Way campaign. Through that campaign I gained a better understanding of the issues facing neighbors in our communities, and the meaningful difference United Way’s Women United members were making. I found that there is no more powerful philanthropic collective dedicated to meeting community needs than Women United — and I had to be a part of it!
Megan: I attended an event at PNC during our workplace campaign about 10 years ago and was inspired by the women leaders from PNC and United Way and from the agency partner who spoke. I realized that, even though I was earlier in my career and felt as if my support might not be significant enough to make an impact, I was wrong. I could play a small part in creating meaningful change. I joined Women United via the step-up program and never looked back!
Why is supporting United Way’s mission personally meaningful to you?
Tina: I love my city, community and this region, and want to help my neighbors in need! United Way makes positive, meaningful and long-lasting change in lives and makes our communities stronger by bringing people together to plan and take action so we may best support our communities.
Megan: United Way’s team are experts at knowing what the greatest needs in our community are, where the most impact can be made and how to make the dollars go farthest. From the 211 contact center to volunteerism opportunities to the various donor leadership groups like Women United and Bridges, their remarkable efforts reach all corners of our region to improve lives.
Can you share a volunteer experience that left a lasting impact on you?
Tina: There have been so many amazing community support opportunities I have participated in and enjoyed. I especially enjoy writing cards for older adults living alone during the holidays, the Cards of Caring service project; I also share the experience with the youth ice hockey teams I manage (the players enjoy writing cheerful notes and spreading joy.)
Megan: There are so many! Making scarves for the unhoused with my son and dad at United Way’s offices. We spent a Saturday morning together, three generations, doing something that could improve the quality of life for a neighbor in need. I also loved cooking dinner with a group of PNC colleagues for the Women’s Center and Shelter.
How do you see Women United making a difference in our community?
Tina: When passionate and motivated women come together WE. GET. THINGS. DONE. We mobilize around continued growth to best support our neighbors in need, are proud of the engagement of our amazing members in events and service opportunities that support our mission and focus on philanthropy that meets the greatest needs in our region.
Megan: The majority of those who come to United Way for help with meeting basic needs, moving to financial stability and building for success in school and life are women. United Way has assisted over 680,000 people in these three areas since 2023. I know the Women United members are playing a role in reaching these people. Also, just listening to our partner agencies and their stories of impact proves that the work we are doing is truly helping.
What excites you most about stepping into your role as co-chair?
Tina: What an honor to be invited to serve along with Megan as co-chair, and with such a high-energy and motivated executive committee! I am thrilled about serving as co–chair when United Way celebrates its 100th anniversary — a meaningful milestone in the long-standing history of helping our neighbors meet their basic needs, strengthening our communities and supporting area youth. I am excited about working to grow our reach beyond the 1.35 million people we cared for last year.
Megan: Being a part of a truly amazing group of women who are igniting change and getting things done for our community. The passion and energy are infectious, and I feel grateful to help lead the charge. I’m so excited to meet new people and expand my network and encourage others to join us.
What is your favorite Women United event or initiative, and why?
Megan: I love the 3 C events – Connections, Conversations and Coffee/Cocktails. They are events held around the region at restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and other venues to engage with members and inspire friends and families to learn more about Women United. I’ve met lovely new connections and helped support local businesses and hopefully had conversations that encouraged new memberships. Win, Win, Win!
Tina: I agree! The 3 C events are so unique to Women United, and deliver exactly as they were intended, by offering Connections, Conversations and Coffee (or Cocktails or Cuisine!) While all members and guests alike are always welcome, the events are hosted “regionally” by members’ workplaces, women- owned small businesses or partner agencies benefiting from United Way’s support. This provides opportunities for all to learn more about Women United and the host and enjoy meaningful networking with the best dialogue.
How do you hope to inspire other women and their allies to join or become more involved?
Tina: Women United members, and all of those who support United Way, help to champion the organization and share with others about the good work being done to support our communities. For women and their allies interested in supporting our communities, growing their personal and professional networks and becoming enriched through relationships and service to our communities — Women United is for you, and will feel like home!
Megan: By being authentic and transparent about my experience with United Way. I know my passion comes through whether speaking at an event, having a small group of women at my home or in conversations at my workplace. I hope that real enthusiasm, empathy and excitement about the work we are doing shines for others to see and be motivated to
get involved.
What goals or dreams do you have for Women United during your time as co-chair?
Tina: I’d love to continue growing this strong network and introduce even more women leaders to opportunities available through Women United membership. Most specifically, I would love for the executive committee to introduce 100 new women to Women United in celebration of the 100th anniversary of United Way. I also hope to grow understanding and support of United Way’s unrestricted giving, so United Way has the flexibility needed to support the greatest challenges facing our community at any point in time.
Megan: I’d also love for the executive committee to reach our goal of making 100 new introductions to Women United in advance of the United Way’s 100th anniversary. We can only get stronger and help more people. I also hope to help Women United be a safe, encouraging space for members during very challenging times. I want to help lift up other women and allies, and I know I can count on these members to lift me up when I need it.
In your view, what makes Women United unique among other donor or volunteer groups?
Tina: Women United HAS. IT. ALL. This group meets its members where they are and has something to fulfill everyone — when it best fits their life. From community service to professional and personal networking to education to growth and development opportunities Women United enriches the lives of our neighbors AND of our members!
Megan: The common bond among members. These are my people! We truly feel good being together, whether at a fun social event like Celebrate to Elevate, packing meal kits, sorting diaper donations or doing any number of the many activities available to members. I feel there is a pride and love for the effort that is very special.