French aristocrat Alexis Charles-Henri de Tocqueville, who visited America in 1831, was a keen observer of American society. His observations formed the basis of Democracy in America, a detailed study of American society and politics. Perhaps his most important observation was that Americans helped each other in times of need. He recognized, applauded and immortalized the American spirit of voluntary association and voluntary effort for the community good.
Based on Tocqueville’s observations, United Way of Massachusetts Bay (UWMB) created the Tocqueville Society to recognize our most generous contributors, those individuals who contribute $10,000 or more annually. United Way appreciates the outstanding dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment of our esteemed members of the Tocqueville Society, now approximately 730 members strong.
The Tocqueville Society is a collection of the most generous people who are committed to making a difference within the communities where they live and work. These individuals make significant change at a local level and make a powerful statement about their desire to care for and strengthen our community. Our local Society sets the philanthropic standard and dispels the popular belief that Boston is uncharitable.
Benefits of Membership
- Opportunities to network and meet with other business and community individuals who share a like-minded spirit of philanthropy
- Invitation to annual Spring recognition dinner at the private home of a fellow Tocqueville Society member
- Invitation to an annual women’s Tocqueville Society luncheon at the private home of a fellow Tocqueville Society member
- Invitation to ongoing Voices of Leadership Luncheon events held January through June
- Invitation to a community reception for all Leadership donors (gifts of $1,000+) in the area where you live
- Invitation to UWMB’s Annual Meeting
- Access to private tours to United Way funded programs
- Recognition, along with your peers, in our annual Leadership Giving Roster and in United Way of America’s national Tocqueville Society book. (However, members may request that their names not be published.)
- Receive quarterly newsletter which highlights recent United Way and community information
Tocqueville Society Giving Levels
- Membres de la Societe: $10,000-$24,999
- Ordre d’Liberte: $25,000-$49,999
- Ordre d’Egalite: $50,000-$99,999
- La Societe Nationale: $100,000+