JOCO LWV Leaders Attend National League of Women Voters Training

Six Johnson County League of Women Voters Leaders were recently selected to participate in a leadership development training conducted by the League of Women Voters of the United States (LWVUS). Those included Harriet Duff, JCLWV President, Overland Park,; Diane Kuhn, LWV State Coach, Shawnee; Ellen Miller, LWV State Coach, Overland Park; Susan Horst,  JCLWV Co- Membership Chair; Shawnee;  Nancy Gatz, JCLWV Co-Membership Chair, Olathe;  Polly Swafford, JCLWV Publicity Chair, Prairie Village.

The leadership program, which sponsors these trainings, was established by the LWVUS to help enrich the democracy-building efforts of this more than 90-year-old grassroots organization. The program will be implemented by the local leagues in all 50 states with the support of a volunteer national coaching team and a cadre of state coaches.

During the two-day training held in Manhattan on August 26th and 27^th, the participants attended “best practices” workshops conducted by national trainers from Washington, DC and New York City. Training included techniques for empowering citizens to have a voice in their communities, for heightening League visibility, and for developing the skills of rising League leaders.

Commenting on the national program, Johnson County President Duff said, “In this time of increased political incivility and growing polarization, the League of Women Voters is needed more than ever. A strong League in every community is the best way to ensure that we have an American citizenry that is informed on the issues, ready and able to cast a ballot, and to ensure that every vote is counted.”
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Membership in the League is open to men and women of all ages. With more than 90 years of experience and 800 local and state affiliates, the League is one of America’s most trusted grassroots organizations.

For more information or to become a member of the Johnson County League of Women Voters.