Leadership Resources

Leadership Resources Intro

Use this map, made possible with support from the Hunt Alternatives Fund, to locate state-based and national resources for women interested in elected or appointed office or work on political campaigns. Click on a state to find leadership development and campaign training programs, political action committees, and organizations and programs committed to supporting and encouraging women in politics.

Need more ideas on how to get involved? Check out the Women's Definitive Guide to Getting Political by CAWP associate director Jean Sinzdak.

If you know of other organizations to add to our list or have updates to our information, please contact Chelsea Hill.

National Resources

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Program Name	State	Party	Program Description
Candidate Schools Eleanor's Legacy	NY	Dem	Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee (ELRC) Candidate Schools help women develop the skills they need to win elections. These day-long intensive...	Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee (ELRC) Candidate Schools help women develop the skills they need to win elections. These day-long intensive training experiences across New York State enable potential candidates to formulate a campaign strategy specific to their race and individual goals. Candidate Schools are open to all pro-choice Democratic women currently running for office or planning a future run.
Candidate Training North Dakota Democratic Party-NPL Headquarters	ND	Dem	North Dakota Democratic Party offers trainings focused on leadership training and issues related to campaigning. For information about training,...	North Dakota Democratic Party offers trainings focused on leadership training and issues related to campaigning. For information about training, contact the ND Democratic state headquarters.
Candidate Training Rhode Island Democratic Party	RI	Dem	The Rhode Island Democratic Party runs a campaign training in the spring of each election year for invited candidates.	The Rhode Island Democratic Party runs a campaign training in the spring of each election year for invited candidates.
Candidate Training Jennifer Dunn Leadership Institute	WA	Rep	The Jennifer Dunn Leadership Institute recruits and trains leaders in Washington State who are thinking about entering the arena of politics as...	The Jennifer Dunn Leadership Institute recruits and trains leaders in Washington State who are thinking about entering the arena of politics as candidates or staffers and who are committed to the principles of freedom, security, entrepreneurial free enterprise, and a return of conservative principles of governance. The Institute, held three days a week over two weeks, teaches its students about campaigns and about how to be a candidate. Topics include Situational Leadership, Leadership Point of View, and Interim Team Assignment. The JDLI's first class of fourteen completed their training in October 2009, and the program hopes to hold two trainings per year, in addition to abbreviated classes targeting in-demand topics. The first training included a session specifically focusing on women and politics.
Candidate Training GOPAC	National	Rep	Founded in 1979, GOPAC is a national organization dedicated exclusively to electing Republicans to state and local offices. The organization...	Founded in 1979, GOPAC is a national organization dedicated exclusively to electing Republicans to state and local offices. The organization provides candidate and campaign training, primarily through online resources.
Candidate Training MI List	MI	Dem	Founded in 2004, MI List is a statewide organization and donor network dedicated to electing pro-choice Democratic women to the Michigan legislature...	Founded in 2004, MI List is a statewide organization and donor network dedicated to electing pro-choice Democratic women to the Michigan legislature and key local offices. MI List strategically recruits and supports pro-choice Democratic women to create a farm team of viable candidates to run for elected office; they coordinate campaign trainings with EMILY's List, a national PAC for pro-choice women.
Candidate Training National Women's Political Caucus	CA	Nonpartisan	NWPC hosts training programs to provide women with the skills needed to run campaigns as candidates, to serve as staff, and to be effective...	NWPC hosts training programs to provide women with the skills needed to run campaigns as candidates, to serve as staff, and to be effective volunteers.
Candidate Training Program Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership, University of Virginia	VA	Nonpartisan	The Sorensen Institute's Candidate Training Program (CTP) is an intensive, four-day program focused on the fundamentals of a winning campaign for...	The Sorensen Institute's Candidate Training Program (CTP) is an intensive, four-day program focused on the fundamentals of a winning campaign for office. Participants explore the nuts and bolts of building a strong campaign from the ground up—all within the context of ethics and principled public service. The curriculum does not prescribe a particular set of campaign guidelines or rules, but does provide candidates with a framework for developing their own code of conduct to run a winning and ethical campaign. Participants in the program represent a broad range of ideologies and a diversity of communities from throughout Virginia. The CTP was first offered in 1999 with support from a grant from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Seven graduates of our 2009 Candidate Training Program were elected to office the same year— 3 Republicans, 3 Democrats and 1 Independent. That includes 2 Republicans and 2 Democrats of the CTP 09 class who were elected for the first time to the Virginia General Assembly on November 3— all four of whom were brand new to state-level campaign politics until they participated in Sorensen.
Candidate Workshops Veterans Campaign	DC	Nonpartisan	Veterans Campaign's two-day training sessions are specifically designed to educate, encourage, and motivate veterans to continue their commitment...	Veterans Campaign's two-day training sessions are specifically designed to educate, encourage, and motivate veterans to continue their commitment to public service by running for elected office. Program curriculum progresses in five stages: laying the groundwork for your campaign, getting your campaign of the ground, financing your campaign, and taking your campaign into the home stretch. Program instructors are office-holding veterans, campaign operatives, professional fundraisers, and representatives of veteran-oriented political action committees who value and understand the mechanics of electing veterans to public office.
Carol's List	MT	Dem	The purpose of Carol’s List is to recruit, train, elect, and otherwise support progressive Democratic women to elected office, in order to...	The purpose of Carol’s List is to recruit, train, elect, and otherwise support progressive Democratic women to elected office, in order to represent Montanans across the state in various levels of government.
Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics Iowa State University	IA	Nonpartisan	Founded in 1992, the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics provides leadership development and educational opportunities for women and...	Founded in 1992, the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics provides leadership development and educational opportunities for women and men interested in politics and public service through programs blending the resources and scholarship of the academic environment with the actual experiences of individuals in the public and private sectors. The Center: / -- Offers leadership development, mentoring and educational opportunities to ISU students / -- Fosters research on issues related to women and politics through the Archives of Women's Political Communication, annual Carrie Chapman Catt Prize for Research on Women and Politics, and studies conducted by Center staff and students / -- Brings prominent women leaders, national and international scholars, and political activists and practitioners to campus for lectures, programs and seminars; and / -- Encourages women to pursue careers in politics, public administration and public service through its mentoring and leadership development programs.
Catalyst PAC	National	Rep	The aim of Catalyst PAC is to increase the variety of backgrounds represented in Congress by supporting diverse Republican candidates running for...	The aim of Catalyst PAC is to increase the variety of backgrounds represented in Congress by supporting diverse Republican candidates running for Congress.
Catalyst PAC	National	Rep	The aim of CatalystPAC is to increase the variety of backgrounds represented in Congress, by supporting diverse Republican candidates running for...	The aim of CatalystPAC is to increase the variety of backgrounds represented in Congress, by supporting diverse Republican candidates running for Congress.
Center for American Women and Politics	National	Nonpartisan	The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is...	The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is the leading source of scholarly research and current data about American womens political participation. CAWP promotes greater knowledge and understanding about women's participation in politics and government and enhances women's influence and leadership in public life. CAWP scholars conduct research on women and politics; the Center offers up-to-date national information on women in local, state, and federal offices; CAWP works with partners across the country to offer state based political education and training program for college women (NEW Leadership Development Network) and women preparing to run for political office (Ready to Run National Training Network).
Center for Women and Politics of Ohio Baldwin Wallace University	OH	Nonpartisan	The Baldwin Wallace Center for Women and Politics of Ohio (CWPO) is a non-partisan public resource that tells the story of women running for...	The Baldwin Wallace Center for Women and Politics of Ohio (CWPO) is a non-partisan public resource that tells the story of women running for public office in Ohio.
Center for Women in Politics & Public Policy Institute for Women's Leadership, Texas Woman's University	TX	Nonpartisan	The Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy seeks to increase the number of women in leadership positions in public service. Their goal is...	The Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy seeks to increase the number of women in leadership positions in public service. Their goal is to become a destination for young women who desire to dedicate their professional careers to public service, advocacy and leadership.
Center for Women's Leadership Portland State University	OR	Nonpartisan	The Center for Women's Leadership works to increase women's leadership in public policy through targeted teaching and community service programs....	The Center for Women's Leadership works to increase women's leadership in public policy through targeted teaching and community service programs. The Center promotes scholarship that examines the presence and role of women in politics and public policy and provides diverse and inclusive service programs that will develop the next generation of women leaders who will serve the city, state, region and nation.
CIEE Civic Leadership Summit CIEE Work &Travel USA	National	Nonpartisan	At the CIEE Civic Leadership Summit, participants will join young leaders from around the world to learn about leadership, social entrepreneurship...	At the CIEE Civic Leadership Summit, participants will join young leaders from around the world to learn about leadership, social entrepreneurship, and cultural understanding. Applications include an essay and a video.
Civic Leadership Academy Univeristy of Chicago Office of Civic Engagement		Nonpartisan	The Civic Leadership Academy is an interdisciplinary leadership development program for emerging and high-potential leaders in nonprofit...	The Civic Leadership Academy is an interdisciplinary leadership development program for emerging and high-potential leaders in nonprofit organizations and local government agencies within the City of Chicago and Cook County.
Close the Gap CA	CA	Nonpartisan	Close the gap CA is a statewide recruiting campaign to find talented, progressive women to run and win seats in the California legislature in 2014...	Close the gap CA is a statewide recruiting campaign to find talented, progressive women to run and win seats in the California legislature in 2014 and 2016. Over the past 10 years, women's representation in our state legislature has declined from 30% to 25%;women of color dropped from 44% of women legislators to just 32% today. In 2014 and 2016, nearly 50% of Assembly and Senate seats will open up. Progressive women can win many of them. Working with women's political and civic organizations, past and current legislators and with Educate Our State, Planned Parenthood Affiliates of CA andwomen in the forefront of anti-poverty efforts, we can identify, recruit and connect promising prospects to the resources that will enable them to run and win.
Colorado 50/50	CO	Nonpartisan	Colorado 50/50 is a nonpartisan group formed in the spring of 2017 by a circle of women in Fort Collins, Colorado. They believe office-holders –...	Colorado 50/50 is a nonpartisan group formed in the spring of 2017 by a circle of women in Fort Collins, Colorado. They believe office-holders – whether elected or appointed – should more closely reflect the population. In other words, since women make up more than 50% of the population, then women should hold at least 50% of the seats. Fifty-fifty, fair and square. We’re here to change that. We’re encouraging women to run for office. We’re encouraging women to apply for boards and commissions. The promise of our representative democracy will never be fulfilled until our office-holders truly reflect the people they represent. Onward!
Colorado BlueFlower Fund	CO	Dem	The Colorado Blue Flower Fund is small donor committee that helps to elect Democratic, pro-choice, progressive women candidates running for state and...	The Colorado Blue Flower Fund is small donor committee that helps to elect Democratic, pro-choice, progressive women candidates running for state and local office in Colorado. The BlueFlower Fund actively researches and recruits qualified, competitive candidates for whom they will provide financial support.
Colorado Federation of Republican Women	CO	Rep	Through affiliate chapters in nearly every state, the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) promotes the principles, objectives and...	Through affiliate chapters in nearly every state, the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) promotes the principles, objectives and policies of the Republican Party; elects Republican candidates; informs the public through political education and activity; and increases the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government. In working toward these objectives, the NFRW concentrates its efforts in the areas of educating, communicating, recruiting, campaigning, fundraising, training and legislative action.
Colorado Legislative Women's Caucus	CO	Nonpartisan	The Colorado Women's Legislative Caucus is a formal bipartisan, bicameral group founded in 2009. The Caucus plans to discuss issues and...	The Colorado Women's Legislative Caucus is a formal bipartisan, bicameral group founded in 2009. The Caucus plans to discuss issues and legislation important to women, raise funds for events, and encourage women's involvement in politics. They will also be creating a speakers panel.
Colorado Springs Leadership Institute	CO	Nonpartisan	The Colorado Springs Leadership Institute was formed in 1996 with the purpose of promoting the quality and quantity of leaders in the Pikes Peak...	The Colorado Springs Leadership Institute was formed in 1996 with the purpose of promoting the quality and quantity of leaders in the Pikes Peak region. The Institute works to connect, educate, and engage area leaders from diverse sectors of the community through programs and events. The cornerstone program of the Institute is a weeklong training for about sixteen new members annually.
Committee Training Virginia Democratic Party	VA	Dem	The Virginia Democratic Party runs either a single statewide training or multiple regional trainings on grassroots work to committee members each...	The Virginia Democratic Party runs either a single statewide training or multiple regional trainings on grassroots work to committee members each year.
Connecticut Federation of Democratic Women	CT	Dem	The Connecticut Federation of Democratic Women supports the principles of the Democratic Party, encourages growth of an intelligent and conscientious...	The Connecticut Federation of Democratic Women supports the principles of the Democratic Party, encourages growth of an intelligent and conscientious electorate, and dedicates itself to fostering good government.
Connecticut Federation of Republican Women	CT	Rep	Through affiliate chapters in nearly every state, the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) promotes the principles, objectives and policies...	Through affiliate chapters in nearly every state, the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) promotes the principles, objectives and policies of the Republican Party; elects Republican candidates; informs the public through political education and activity; and increases the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government. In working toward these objectives, the NFRW concentrates its efforts in the areas of educating, communicating, recruiting, campaigning, fundraising, training and legislative action.
Connecticut Gender Balance Legislation	CT	Nonpartisan	The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 4-9b) establishes that the membership of all state appointive boards, commissions, committees and councils...	The Connecticut General Statutes (Section 4-9b) establishes that the membership of all state appointive boards, commissions, committees and councils having members appointed by the Governor or by members of the General Assembly be representative of the state gender balance to the extent possible.
Connecticut NOW National Organization for Women	CT	Nonpartisan	Founded in 1966, the National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States whose goal is to...	Founded in 1966, the National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States whose goal is to take action to bring about equality for all women. NOW is a multi-issue, multi-strategy organization that takes a holistic approach to women's rights. The organization's official priorities are winning economic equality and securing it with an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that will guarantee equal rights for women; championing abortion rights, reproductive freedom and other women's health issues; opposing racism and fighting bigotry against lesbians and gays; and ending violence against women. NOW has over 550 chapters in all 50 states that participate in education and advocacy activities. Information on state and local chapters of NOW is available on the national NOW website and through state chapters.
Contra Costa Republican Party	CA	Rep	The Contra Costa Republican Party holds an annual Candidate Boot Camp open to individuals interested in working on a campaign or running for office.	The Contra Costa Republican Party holds an annual Candidate Boot Camp open to individuals interested in working on a campaign or running for office.
Coro Los Angeles Coro National	CA	Nonpartisan	Coro Southern California is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization focused on cultivating the next generation of diverse leaders through hands-on,...	Coro Southern California is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization focused on cultivating the next generation of diverse leaders through hands-on, collaborative, cross-sectoral learning.Coro Southern California is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization focused on cultivating the next generation of diverse leaders through hands-on, collaborative, cross-sectoral learning.
Courage to Run	National	Nonpartisan	Courage to Run is the nation's premier, nonpartisan 5K series and leadership community committed to being healthy to lead effectively in civic...	Courage to Run is the nation's premier, nonpartisan 5K series and leadership community committed to being healthy to lead effectively in civic life today. They believe that whether you are running a 5K or toward Election Day, it takes an elevated set of skills that strikingly resemble the "inner game" of an elite athlete: a winning mindset, resilience, vision, courage and care.
Dare to Run	NY	Nonpartisan	Dare to Run offers female college graduates the chance to participate in a two-year certificate program in pursuit of a career path in public...	Dare to Run offers female college graduates the chance to participate in a two-year certificate program in pursuit of a career path in public service. They give women the opportunity to be a voice for their communities by committing to run campaigns in search of elected office within two years of graduation from the program.
DAWN's List	IA	Dem	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the...	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the state legislature. Since 1993, DAWN has provided campaign training, mentoring, and support for hundreds of Iowa Democratic women. DAWN's List is dedicated to supporting, recruiting, mentoring, and electing progressive women.
DAWN's List	IA	Dem	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the...	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the state legislature. Since 1993, DAWN has provided campaign training, mentoring, and support for hundreds of Iowa Democratic women. DAWN's List is dedicated to supporting, recruiting, mentoring, and electing progressive women.
DAWN's List	IA	Dem	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the...	DAWN's List (Democratic Activist Women's Network) is dedicated to strengthening Iowa by electing progressive pro-choice Democratic women to the state legislature. Since 1993, DAWN has provided campaign training, mentoring, and support for hundreds of Iowa Democratic women. DAWN's List is dedicated to supporting, recruiting, mentoring, and electing progressive women.
Delaware Federation of Republican Women	DE	Rep	The National Federation of Democratic Women (NFDW) supports the inclusion of womens voices in the Democratic Party. With 32 chapters nationwide, the...	The National Federation of Democratic Women (NFDW) supports the inclusion of womens voices in the Democratic Party. With 32 chapters nationwide, the NFDW promotes Democratic Party goals and candidates and works to unite women party members behind them. NFDW chapters recognize potential women candidates and encourage their candidacies for office. Members attend meetings, organize educational and political events, volunteer for campaigns, and support candidates for office.
Delaware NOW National Organization for Women	DE	Nonpartisan	Founded in 1966, the National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States whose goal is to...	Founded in 1966, the National Organization for Women (NOW) is the largest organization of feminist activists in the United States whose goal is to take action to bring about equality for all women. NOW is a multi-issue, multi-strategy organization that takes a holistic approach to women's rights. The organization's official priorities are winning economic equality and securing it with an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that will guarantee equal rights for women; championing abortion rights, reproductive freedom and other women's health issues; opposing racism and fighting bigotry against lesbians and gays; and ending violence against women.NOW has over 550 chapters in all 50 states that participate in education and advocacy activities. Information on state and local chapters of NOW is available on the national NOW website and through state chapters.
Democratic Activists for Women Now (DAWN)	CA	Dem	Founded in 1992, Democratic Activists for Women Now (DAWN) supports the election and appointment of progressive Democratic women candidates to office...	Founded in 1992, Democratic Activists for Women Now (DAWN) supports the election and appointment of progressive Democratic women candidates to office. The group also provides scholarships to women interested in attending Emerge California, a political training program for women.

Leadership Resources Intro

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