Hyannis, MA — Longtime Cape philanthropist Maureen Wilkens of Osterville has been selected as the 2024 Woman of Impact by the Cape and Islands United Way, a nonprofit organization on a mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our communities to advance the common good on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
The award is presented annually at the Power of the Purse event set for October 16 at the Hyannisport Club and hosted by Women United, an affinity group of the Cape and Islands United Way. The award recognizes women leaders who do extraordinary work to positively impact the lives of others in the community, business, cultural, or political sectors. Tickets and sponsorships are available at capeandislandsuw.org/pop.
“It is hard to put into words the impact Mrs. Wilkens has had on the Cape community with her generosity and philanthropy,” said Mark Skala, President and CEO of the Cape and Islands United Way. “Though she shuns the spotlight, she and her late husband, Frank, have left an indelible mark on philanthropy on Cape Cod.”
Mrs. Wilkens, who splits her time between Osterville and Palm Beach, deflected any praise when told of the award. She said giving back is something she and her husband always believed was critical.
“I’m very appreciative and this is so nice, but really it is about helping the community,” Mrs. Wilkens said.
Mrs. Wilkens, along with her late husband, have been longtime supporters of the Cape and Islands United Way and numerous other charities including Cape Cod Community College, Cape Cod Hospital Healthcare Foundation, Housing Assistance Corporation, the Salvation Army, Osterville Free Library, to name just a few. Mrs. Wilkens has also been supportive of her alma mater, Emmanuel College where she established the Maureen Murphy Wilkens School of Nursing and Clinical Sciences.
“Maureen Wilkens is truly dedicated to supporting this community and to ensuring that all Cape Cod residents and visitors have access to the best possible healthcare,” said Michael Lauf, CEO of Cape Cod Healthcare. “We have been very grateful for the generosity of Maureen and her late husband, Frank, which helped us to enhance access to services and care for all at the Wilkens Outpatient Medical Complex.”
“Over the years, Maureen’s exceptional dedication to Cape Cod Healthcare and our community has continued with her passionate support for local education and training,” Lauf added. “From funding for the Cape Cod Community College/Cape Cod Healthcare Center for Nursing and Allied Health to the creation of the Frank and Maureen Wilkens Science and Engineering Center at Cape Cod Community College, Maureen’s inspiration and vision have positively impacted the lives of so many on Cape Cod.”
Mrs. Wilkens is the proud mother of four sons, Frank III, Stephen, Daniel, and David, and their families.
Previous Woman of Impact recipients includes Doreen Bilezikian, co-founder of the Christmas Tree Shops; Dorothy Savarese, retired chairman and CEO of Cape Cod 5; Trish Kennedy, entrepreneur and philanthropist; and Jen Villa, co-owner of the West End and co-founder of the nonprofit Love, Live, Local.
Photo Courtesy of Cape Cod Community College
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About Power of the Purse
Power of the Purse is more than an event; it’s a movement. Representing strength, unity, and the power to make a difference, this signature gathering of Women United brings together over 150 community professionals for an evening of networking, inspiration, and impact. Enjoy delicious appetizers, a compelling speaking program, and the excitement of the designer handbag auction. Proceeds support early literacy, family health, and women’s career development and economic self-sufficiency.
About Cape & Islands United Way
The Cape and Islands United Way is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization leading social impact on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. Partnering with donors, volunteers, and nonprofit organizations, our mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our communities to advance the common good within our region. Our pillars of priority include promoting health, improving educational success, creating housing stability, and encouraging economic stability.
