United Way of Southeast Georgia is set to host its inaugural Women United Brunch, a significant event dedicated to bolstering the well-being of children and families within the community. The gathering will shine a spotlight on community leader Trish Tootle, who will be recognized as the 2026 United Way Woman of the Year.

United Way of Southeast Georgia is proud to announce the inaugural Women United Brunch, a powerful gathering of women committed to strengthening children and families in our community. The event will honor community leader Trish Tootle as the 2026 United Way Woman of the Year. Trish’s life of service embodies the theme: Strong Women. Strong Children. Strong Communities.

Hosted by United Way of Southeast Georgia and chaired by Carrie Binns and Sean Gay of Bulloch Solutions, Inc., the brunch will take place Tuesday, April 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Forest Heights Country Club.

Women United exists to address children’s welfare, and this year’s focus highlights children’s dental health as a critical component of overall well-being. In Georgia, more than one in five third-graders have untreated cavities. What begins as a small cavity can grow into chronic pain, missed school days, and a loss of confidence.

“This is more than a brunch; it is an opportunity to invest in the whole child, their health, their education, and their future,” shared United Way of Southeast Georgia Executive Director Carey Cassedy.

The Women United brunch will feature a panel of local experts discussing children’s well-being, including pediatric dentist Dr. Anjali Patel, pediatrician Dr. Anna Benson, and Fay Blythe, RN, lead district nurse for Bulloch County Schools. The event will also include a delicious brunch, entertainment, 
raffle opportunities, and meaningful time for connection and impact.

Funds raised will address barriers impacting local families, from healthcare access and basic needs to programs that promote healthy development.

The 2026 Women United Brunch is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, led by Presenting Sponsor Franklin Chevrolet. A special thank you to Stephen Franklin for his instrumental role in launching this inaugural event, as well as Wonder Woman Sponsors Morris Bank and the Kiwanis Club of Statesboro, and Queen of Hearts Sponsor Whitfield Signs. Tickets, tables, and sponsorship opportunities are available unitedwaysega.org. Proceeds directly support United Way of Southeast Georgia’s work to improve child well-being in Bulloch County.

For more information, visit unitedwaysega.org or contact Kara Holland at kholland@unitedwaysega.org.