More than 200 Lake County women joined forces November 6 to raise funds in support of early childhood programs for local children so they are prepared for kindergarten and ready to succeed. The money was raised through Women United’s signature annual fundraising event, Power of the Purse, which took place at Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove. During the sold-out event attendees enjoyed a champagne brunch and had opportunities to bid on trendy designer bags, silent auction purses, baskets, and items. In addition, attendees raised their paddles to send children to a Kindergarten Countdown Camp for incoming kindergarten students with little to no preschool experience. For more information about Women United, visit LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org/WU.