A group of ten men poses outside a brick building in front of a "Men's Leadership Society" banner. They are dressed casually; some wear T-shirts with various logos. Trees and a window provide a backdrop.

Men’s Leadership Society

The Men’s Leadership Society (MLS) brings together philanthropic leaders from across the St. Louis region who are committed to strengthening our community through giving, service, and leadership.

Members unite around a shared belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Through their support of United Way, MLS members help ensure that individuals and families can access critical resources when they need them most—from basic needs to counseling, care, and emergency assistance.

Leadership in Action

The Men’s Leadership Society provides opportunities to connect with fellow leaders who are passionate about making a difference in the communities they call home. Through volunteer experiences, networking opportunities, leadership events, and unique sports-focused engagements, members build relationships while supporting a stronger St. Louis region. Whether through philanthropy, volunteerism, or advocacy, MLS members demonstrate that leadership extends beyond the workplace and into the community.

Leadership Giving Society Benefits

Unite with us.

Pathway Programs

Are you seeking to take the next step in your charitable giving journey? United Way offers two Pathway Programs intended to help you incrementally increase your giving level over a few years while immediately unlocking benefits to the Leadership Giving and the de Tocqueville Society.

  • Regional Business Council (RBC) Pathway Program
    A three-year program intended to help professionals move up to a Leadership Giving level.
  • de Tocqueville Accelerator Program
    Available to current and new donors interested in becoming de Tocqueville Society members.

Ready to get started? Reach out to our team at [email protected] or (314) 539-4224.

Current Men’s Leadership Society Chair

Kel Ward, St. Louis Children’s Hospital

Past Men’s Leadership Society Chairs

2024: Kel Ward

2023: Jim Lally

2022: Andrew Davidson & Jim Lally 

2021: Andrew Davidson & Keith Williamson 

2020: Mike Hart 

2018-2019: Joe Bergan and Sumit Verma 

2016-2018: Arindam Kar and Michael Lawrence 

2013-2016: Joe Ambrose and Ray Farris