LWV Membership & Leadership Development (MLD) Program

The Big Picture…

Right now... There are Big Challenges facing our democracy Highly politicized, partisan dialogue Laws threatening to DENY voters the right to vote (not seen since the days of the Poll Tax!) Voters crave authentic solutions Want nonpartisan, factual information from a trustworthy source

The League is Needed NOW…more than ever!

What if… the League were to do its good work in this critical year in a focused and intentional way… Who would benefit? What could those benefits look like? What could it mean for the future?

Understanding our strengths Looking to the future Seeing possibilities Embracing change Providing vision Giving support All while doing the good work of the League! Core of MLD… What if? Who else? Yes, and…

Imagine if… EVERY League was capitalizing on this election year for voters and for the League – and growing itself in the process? EVERY League had its own coach for support, guidance, and ideas? EVERY League leader was trained and mentored and felt inspired and confident leading?

How do we get there?

MLD Basics Partnership among ALL levels of League. Intentionally focused on: 1. Recruiting new members 2. Engaging current members 3. Developing new leaders in ALL we do. Using tried-and-true best practices.

What does the “partnership” look like? Speaking with a united and POWERFUL voice Working towards a common mission Sharing resources Sharing knowledge

Structure of Partnership LWVUSStateLocal State Board State Coordinator State Coaches LWVUS Board Shur Fellows LWVUS Staff League Board Coordinator Committee

Critical Component: COACHES! Every League in the country has a support network and ongoing training!

Within the League, we are.... Training Working in teams toward common goals/vision Implementing Best Practices Coaching

Outside the League, we are...  Intentionally including Membership & Leadership Development into all League activities (especially “public” ones)  Developing External Relationships – partnerships with the media and community organizations  Increasing the League’s profile or visiblity in our communities

Best Practices for Membership Media Allied Direct 3 Types of Outreach HOW?

Leadership Development Prepare members to lead through building knowledge and confidence Intentionally identify and include emerging leaders in League activities (i.e., Create a LWV Leadership Ladder)

Success! 41 states and DC participating 23 Ruth S. Shur Fellows (national coaches) Over 100 State Coaches Better membership numbers More community involvement, visibility, and connection Renewed hope and enthusiasm! Belief in the power of our mighty voice!

What are Local Leagues Saying? “I thought our Legislative Forum Tuesday night was a huge success for our League. Not only did the chance to collaborate with other organizations give us a boost, but we passed a clipboard around the audience during the event. We got 36 people's contact info who said they would like to be notified about future League speakers at the Topeka library!! Local League members really came out for the event. The forum was Skyped live to 3 libraries including Dodge City and will be replayed this Sunday night on KPR. Tell LWVUS, the membership ideas work! ” ~Grace, LWV of Topeka-Shawnee

Together we can and are making the League and our communities stronger.