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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Leadership Resources Intro

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Program Name	State	Party	Program Description
Los Angeles African American Women PAC	CA	Dem	Founded in 1991, the Los Angeles African American Women Political Action Committee (LAAAWPAC) is dedicated to endorsing and supporting California...	Founded in 1991, the Los Angeles African American Women Political Action Committee (LAAAWPAC) is dedicated to endorsing and supporting California African American Women running for national, state, and local offices.
Louisiana Center for Women and Government	LA	Nonpartisan	The Louisiana Center for Women and Government and Business at Nicholls State University encourages and promotes the leadership of women by...	The Louisiana Center for Women and Government and Business at Nicholls State University encourages and promotes the leadership of women by providing resources and non-partisan support through educational workshops, training seminars and outreach programs. The center is committed to promoting women in government and public service, to acknowledging achievements of women and to teaching all citizens about the importance of public service and responsible citizenship.
Louisiana Federation of Republican Women	LA	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.
Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus	LA	Nonpartisan	The Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus is a formal, bipartisan caucus that comprises the women in the Louisiana Legislature who share a collective...	The Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus is a formal, bipartisan caucus that comprises the women in the Louisiana Legislature who share a collective mission to: (1) prepare the next generation of women leaders and (2) serve as the premiere voice and leading monitor of issues, legislation and policies that affect women. The Caucus also sponsors outreach efforts through a non-profit foundation and "Women of Excellence" awards. Members meet every other week during session and at an annual retreat outside of session.
Louisiana NOW National Organization for Women	LA	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.
LPAC	National		LPAC builds the political power of lesbians and queer women by electing candidates who champion LGBTQ rights, women’s equality and social justice...	LPAC builds the political power of lesbians and queer women by electing candidates who champion LGBTQ rights, women’s equality and social justice. LPAC achieves its mission by increasing the political power and engagement of LGBTQ women and their allies, and building a network of lesbians and queer women who take political action.
LUPE Fund Inc.	NJ	Nonpartisan	LUPE Fund Inc.'s mission is to educate, empower, and engage Latinas in order to promote leadership and civic engagement. LUPEPAC supports...	LUPE Fund Inc.'s mission is to educate, empower, and engage Latinas in order to promote leadership and civic engagement. LUPEPAC supports progressive Latina candidates for all levels of office in New Jersey.
LUPE Fund Inc.	NJ	Nonpartisan	LUPE Fund Inc.'s mission is to educate, empower, and engage Latinas in order to promote leadership and civic engagement. LUPEPAC supports...	LUPE Fund Inc.'s mission is to educate, empower, and engage Latinas in order to promote leadership and civic engagement. LUPEPAC supports progressive Latina candidates for all levels of office in New Jersey.
LUPE PAC	NJ		Lupe PAC's mission is to increase Latinas participation in the political process in the State of New Jersey; increase the number of progressive...	Lupe PAC's mission is to increase Latinas participation in the political process in the State of New Jersey; increase the number of progressive Latinas in elected and appointed office; and promote and support progressive Latinas running for local, state, and federal office.
Maggie's List	FL	Rep	Maggies List is a Federal Political Action Committee created to increase the number of elected women committed to promoting the values of fiscal...	Maggies List is a Federal Political Action Committee created to increase the number of elected women committed to promoting the values of fiscal conservatism, less government, more personal responsibility and strong national security. It provides programs and financial support to women candidates who meet these criteria, enabling them to run competitive and successful campaigns at the federal level.
Maggie's List PAC	National	Rep	Maggie's List was created in 2010 as a federal PAC to increase the number of elected women committed to promoting the values of fiscal...	Maggie's List was created in 2010 as a federal PAC to increase the number of elected women committed to promoting the values of fiscal conservatism, less government, more personal responsibility and strong national security. The PAC provides programs and financial support to women candidates who meet these criteria.
Maine Federation of Republican Women	ME	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.
Maine Women's Policy Center	ME	Nonpartisan	The Maine Women's Policy Center (MWPC) is committed to systemic change by organizing, training, and supporting women to effectively participate in...	The Maine Women's Policy Center (MWPC) is committed to systemic change by organizing, training, and supporting women to effectively participate in the policy-making process. MWPC has consistently backed up women's real life experiences with research and facts and partnered with the Maine Women's Lobby to amplify their concerns in the legislature and develop policy solutions that address their needs. While the Center's constituency is Maine women and girls, it especially seeks to serve those who are underrepresented in the formation of public policy particularly rural women and women with low incomes.
MANA, A National Latina Organization	National	Nonpartisan	MANA is a nonprofit, advocacy organization established in 1974. Its mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community...	MANA is a nonprofit, advocacy organization established in 1974. Its mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community service, and advocacy. MANA fulfills its mission through programs designed to develop the leadership skills of Latinas, promote community service by Latinas, and provide Latinas with advocacy opportunities.
MANA, A National Latina Organization	DC	Nonpartisan	MANA is a nonprofit, advocacy organization established in 1974. Its mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community service,...	MANA is a nonprofit, advocacy organization established in 1974. Its mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community service, and advocacy. MANA fulfills its mission through programs designed to develop the leadership skills of Latinas, promote community service by Latinas, and provide Latinas with advocacy opportunities.
Martha Hughes Cannon Caucus	UT	Nonpartisan	The Martha Hughes Cannon Caucus is made up of current and former Utah legislators; named for the Utahn who was the first US woman elected to a...	The Martha Hughes Cannon Caucus is made up of current and former Utah legislators; named for the Utahn who was the first US woman elected to a state senate.
Mary Ann's List	DE		Mary Ann's List works to elect pro-choice progressive women from across the state of Delaware at every level of government.	Mary Ann's List works to elect pro-choice progressive women from across the state of Delaware at every level of government.
Maryland Federation of Republican Women	MD	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.
Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators	MA	Nonpartisan	The Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators was formed in 1975 with a mission to enhance the economic status and equality of women and to...	The Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators was formed in 1975 with a mission to enhance the economic status and equality of women and to encourage and support women in all levels of government.
Massachusetts NOW	MA	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.
Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus National Women's Political Caucus	MA	Nonpartisan	The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus (MWPC), a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus, is a multipartisan organization that...	The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus (MWPC), a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus, is a multipartisan organization that promotes the participation and involvement of women of all ages in the political process. The organization was founded in 1971 for the purpose of increasing the number of women elected and appointed to public office and public policy positions. Fundraising and candidate support are provided through MWPC's political action committee.
Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC	MA	Nonpartisan	The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC provides support to qualified, pro-choice women candidates running for legislative and statewide...	The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus PAC provides support to qualified, pro-choice women candidates running for legislative and statewide offices via the MWPC endorsement process. Selected races for local office are also included in the endorsement process.
MassGAP Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus	MA	Nonpartisan	The Massachusetts Government Appointments Project (MassGAP) was founded in 2002 as a bi-partisan coalition of womens groups whose purpose is to...	The Massachusetts Government Appointments Project (MassGAP) was founded in 2002 as a bi-partisan coalition of womens groups whose purpose is to increase the number of women appointed by the new governor to senior-level cabinet positions, agency heads and selected authorities and commissions in the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Womens Political Caucus (MWPC) is the lead sponsor of this coalition.
Masters' Program in Elections and Campaign Management Fordham University	NY	Nonpartisan	Fordham University offers a masters degree in elections and campaign management. The program is designed as a comprehensive, one-year introduction...	Fordham University offers a masters degree in elections and campaign management. The program is designed as a comprehensive, one-year introduction to both theoretical and practical tools necessary to manage political campaigns. Rigorous multidisciplinary instruction in voting behavior, candidate strategy, analysis of survey data, and media management is provided by academics and industry professionals. The program requires completion of 30 credits. including a professional-level internship in a political consulting firm or a campaign organization.
Matriots	OH	Nonpartisan	The Matriots is an Ohio nonpartisan political action committee founded in May of 2017 by a group of women who participated in the Women’s March on...	The Matriots is an Ohio nonpartisan political action committee founded in May of 2017 by a group of women who participated in the Women’s March on Washington. Moved by the tremendous outpouring of support that day for American women and their issues, the Ohio marchers decided to launch an effort to put more women into political leadership to ensure economic justice and advance policies impacting the lives of Ohio women.
Mesa Leadership Training and Development Program Mesa Chamber of Commerce	AZ	Nonpartisan	The Mesa Leadership Training and Development Program works to cultivate leadership through education, exposure to the community, and interaction...	The Mesa Leadership Training and Development Program works to cultivate leadership through education, exposure to the community, and interaction between class members. Through ten once-monthly seminars, particpants learn about area issues like history, business and economics, criminal justice, city government, the arts, education, social issues, and leadership. Participants meet and shadow area leaders and many have gone on to pursue public office, serve on city boards and commissions, and/or serve as community leaders in other sectors.
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...	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.
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...	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.
Michigan Federation of Democratic Women	MI	Dem	The National Federation of Democratic Women (NFDW) supports the inclusion of womens voices in the Democratic Party. With 32 chapters nationwide,...	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.
Michigan NOW National Organization for Women	MI	Nonpartisan	Sponsored by the National Organization for Women	Sponsored by the National Organization for Women
Michigan Political Leadership Program Michigan State University, Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR)	MI	Nonpartisan	The Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) at Michigan State University (MSU) recruits, trains, and inspires current and future public policy...	The Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) at Michigan State University (MSU) recruits, trains, and inspires current and future public policy leaders. In a multi-partisan learning environment, twenty-four individuals from across the state engage in a ten-month weekend program that incorporates practical politics, public policy analysis and process, personal leadership development, and effective governance.
Michigan Women in Municipal Government	MI		Michigan Women in Municipal Government is a state-wide organization of women serving in local government focusing on the development of women in...	Michigan Women in Municipal Government is a state-wide organization of women serving in local government focusing on the development of women in leadership; recognition of achievement; and providing training and mentoring to those seeking positions in local government.
Minnesota Federation of Republican Women	MN	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.
Minnesota NOW	MN	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.
Minnesota Women's Political Caucus National Women's Political Caucus	MN	Nonpartisan	Founded in 1971, the Minnesota Women's Political Caucus is a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus. It shares NWPC goals to increase the...	Founded in 1971, the Minnesota Women's Political Caucus is a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus. It shares NWPC goals to increase the number of elected and appointed women in office by targeting, endorsing, contributing funds and volunteers, working to publicize women's campaigns, and encouraging members to serve on campaign committees. The screening, endorsement and funding of candidates is carried out by a separate Political Action Committee (PAC).
Minnesota Women's Political Caucus PAC National Women's Political Caucus	MN	Nonpartisan	Founded in 1971, the Minnesota Women's Political Caucus is a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus. It shares NWPC goals to increase the...	Founded in 1971, the Minnesota Women's Political Caucus is a chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus. It shares NWPC goals to increase the number of elected and appointed women in office by targeting, endorsing, contributing funds and volunteers, working to publicize women's campaigns, and encouraging members to serve on campaign committees. The screening, endorsement and funding of candidates is carried out by a separate Political Action Committee (PAC).
Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) Virginia Legislative Black Caucus Foundation and The VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute	VA	Nonpartisan	The Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) is a collaborative initiative of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus Foundation and The VCU...	The Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) is a collaborative initiative of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus Foundation and The VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute. MPLI is an intensive eight-month experience designed to promote leadership development for individuals interested in issues important to minority communities. MPLI offers insights regarding leadership legacy and culture, personal leadership, policy and legislative processes, responsible stewardship, public service, and integrity for future leaders. Each program year, participants engage and interact with communities across Virginia and learn about unique strengths and issues facing different regions of the Commonwealth. Participation in MPLI is open to anyone interested in leadership issues important to minority communities regardless of race/ethnicity or partisanship.
Mississippi Federation of Democratic Women	MS	Dem	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.
Mississippi Federation of Republican Women	MS	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.
Mississippi N.E.W. Leadership™ John C. Stennis Center for Public Service and Mississippi University for Women	MS	Nonpartisan	Mississippi N.E.W. Leadership™ is a residential institute that develops college women’s public leadership skills, supports their engagement in...	Mississippi N.E.W. Leadership™ is a residential institute that develops college women’s public leadership skills, supports their engagement in civic life, and creates opportunities for them to build relationships with women involved in public leadership on the local, state, and national levels. During the program selected students meet with women in a variety of roles in the public sphere, learn about women’s political participation, explore ideas about leadership and politics, and participate in hands-on skills building exercises. Mississippi N.E.W. Leadership™ is part of the NEW Leadership™ Development Network of the Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP) at Rutgers University (NJ).