Emerging Leaders Society

THE EMERGING LEADERS SOCIETY IS A NETWORK OF PHILANTHROPIC YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SUPPORTING SPOKANE COUNTY UNITED WAY'S VISION THROUGH NETWORKING, VOLUNTEERING, AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

Our Mission and History

To create a lasting impact in Spokane County by engaging philanthropic young leaders.

The Emerging Leaders Society (ELS) was established by Spokane County United Way in 2013 to provide early-to mid-career professionals an opportunity to develop leadership skills, network with community-minded individuals, and elevate their commitment to making a difference in the community. Spokane County United Way saw the need to educate, develop, and invest in young professionals and the role they play in the future success of the Spokane community, thus the Emerging Leaders Society was born.

What is the Emerging Leaders Society?   

Members of the Emerging Leaders Society contribute their time, talent, and treasure annually to the community, and to Spokane County United Way. ELS members attend events focused on networking and professional development, as well as have hands on volunteer experience with local non-profit agencies. Members of ELS gain leadership experience through the opportunities to serve on committees including membership, marketing, volunteer, strategic planning, and events.  

Learn More and Sign Up

Interested in learning more? Check out our informational flyer. Or, contact els@unitedwayspokane.org to be connected with a volunteer on our Membership Committee.

Ready to join ELS? Click here to fill out your membership application.

Follow us on Facebook to be the first to hear about upcoming events! Read our Summer Events Series newsletter!

ELS Events Calendar and Registration -

due to COVID-19 all events are currently postponed

Annually, the Emerging Leaders Society hosts a number of events, centered on networking, volunteerism, professional development, or some combination of the three! Check out our line up, and circle back often as we are always adding something new.

The Emerging Leaders Society’s signature event is the annual Spokane Philanthropy Awards. ELS hosts this event each October in partnership with the Spokane Journal of Business to honor philanthropic individuals and organizations in the community.