The United Way Marquis Society: A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
At United Way of Cumberland County, we believe in the transformative power of philanthropy to create lasting change. The Marquis Society is an exclusive group that recognizes individuals who are making a significant impact in our community. Members of this society are celebrated for their exceptional contributions—whether through time, talent, or financial resources—helping to address Cumberland County's most pressing needs.
The Marquis Society is composed of a network of Cumberland County’s top philanthropists, business leaders, and community advocates, united by a shared vision: to improve the lives of those in need and create lasting change. This collective effort emphasizes the power of giving back to strengthen the community.
The Power of Collective Giving
The Marquis Society offers several membership levels, each recognizing different contributions. The highest level, Alexis de Tocqueville, is for gifts of $10,000 or more, while other levels range from Marquis ($5,000) to Chevalier ($1,000). These contributions help United Way partner with businesses, agencies, volunteers, and other organizations to make a real difference.
Levels of Membership:
The United Way Marquis Society offers several giving levels, each offering unique recognition and engagement opportunities:
- Alexis de Tocqueville: Gifts of $10,000 or above
- Marquis: Gifts of $5,000 to $9,999
- Comte: Gifts of $2,500 to $4,999
- Baron: Gifts of $1,500 to $2,499
- Chevalier: Gifts of $1,000 to $1,499
Membership Benefits Include:
- Networking Opportunities with community leaders, business executives, and philanthropists.
- Exclusive Invitations to Cumberland County’s most prestigious events, including private gatherings and leadership dinners.
- A Powerful Presence in the community as your philanthropy is celebrated.
- Direct Insight into the impact of your contributions, giving you a firsthand look at the positive changes your support creates.
The Legacy of Alexis de Tocqueville
The Marquis Society is inspired by the Tocqueville Society, founded in 1984 and named after the French political thinker Alexis de Tocqueville. During his travels in the 1830s, Tocqueville admired Americans’ generosity and civic-mindedness, which became the foundation of the Tocqueville Society. Today, this spirit of volunteerism and mutual support continues in the work of United Way.
Since its creation, the Tocqueville Society has expanded into a global movement, with over 400 chapters and nearly 25,000 members worldwide. These leaders raise millions of dollars to support initiatives that benefit communities around the world.
A Broader Impact
Being part of the Marquis Society is about more than a financial contribution—it’s about joining a movement of leaders working together to address community challenges and inspire others. United Way continues to expand the ways members can engage, ensuring their efforts are having a meaningful and lasting impact on Cumberland County.
The Marquis Society is an opportunity to connect with influential community leaders and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Through collective giving and a commitment to the greater good, members leave a legacy that strengthens our community for generations to come.
