| California Women Lead - Engage Empower Elect |

:: Benefits
:: Application
:: FAQ's

Membership Info

Who Are We?
Founded in 1974, California Women Lead (formerly CEWAER) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association dedicated to networking and leadership training for women who are interested in or who hold elected and appointed office. Our mission, as women in government, is to inform elected and appointed women and encourage and support women who seek public office.

Who Belongs to California Women Lead?
CWL’s membership is open to women and men who are committed to the goals of supporting women in politics. CWL members include elected and appointed officials at the national, state, and local levels. In addition, advocates, lobbyists, political and legislative staff members, businesses and students, are members of CWL. You do not have to be an elected or appointed official to join, just dedicated to supporting women leaders. CWL does not endorse candidates or legislation, rather we serve as an organization that trains women on campaigning, policy, and how to be effective leaders.

Benefits of Membership
Being a member of CWL has its benefits. CWL membership allows you the opportunity to:
• Gain influence in a professional organization that impacts the future of women in leadership;
• Enjoy professional development through CWL programs and events;
• Support efforts to recruit talented women into leadership roles;
• Interact professionally and personally with local, regional, state, and federal leaders.

Programs & Events
Held throughout the state, our events provide you with the opportunity to meet other politically engaged women, share common concerns, and benefit from the diversity of women working together in the political arena. Events include Legislative Welcome, Local Women’s Events, and Summer Reception. Regional networking events are held to serve members throughout the state.

Leadership Training
These trainings promote and recognize the role that women play as leaders and trains women how to become effective leaders who can contribute on a local, state, and national level. Women attending these forums walk away with the tools they need to succeed in politics. Sessions include, “The Campaign Plan,” “Fundraising Techniques,” “Navigating the Media,” “Advocacy 101,” and “Getting an Appointment.”

Member Newsletter
Highlighting the events and activities of CWL, the newsletter brings you articles from board members, coverage of our programs, “how-to” articles, a calendar of events, and more.

Free and Reduced Price Publications
If you are looking for resources and information, we have publications available to help you succeed in leadership roles. Publications for members include “Getting an Appointment,” “How to go from Local Office to the Statehouse,” “Media Skills Training,” and more.

Collaborations
CWL works closely with other organizations to provide you with even greater benefits. We host breakfasts and other programs at conferences hosted by the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), League of California Cities (LCC), California School Boards Association (CSBA), and the California Special Districts Association (CSDA).

CWL Website
CWL’s website offers you downloadable articles and research documents, a calendar of events, links to resources, and event information and registration. A new members-only section is being developed which will offer members e-mail updates, message boards, and downloadable newsletters and publications.

Student Members
CWL offers a discounted membership to current high school and full-time undergraduate college students. Students can network with elected, appointed, and non-office holding members. A wide variety of educational research regarding women in politics is available to members. In addition, employment and internship opportunities are available. CWL also offers students the opportunity to attend leadership training events on scholarships.

Local Chapters
California Women Lead believes leadership begins at the local level. Chapters enable you to network with other politically engaged women in your community, attend local CWL events, and offers you the opportunity to advance your leadership skills by serving on the local chapter board of directors. Currently CWL has six chapters – San Diego, Kern County, East Bay, San Mateo County, Sacramento Region and North State.

Appointments Training
California Women Lead has launched an aggressive statewide effort to recruit and train women for local commissions and boards. CWL believes this the first step for women interested in being politically engaged. These free, two hour trainings provide women with the nuts and bolts of the appointments process and also provides the local contacts needed to make it happen. CWL also provides training and assistance to those members interested in applying for a state appointment.

Application

Join Online Today with our online E-form
Online Membership Form

or download application and return to California Women Lead office by fax or mail.
Download Membership Brochure (PDF Format)

FAQ's

1) Do I have to be elected or appointed to join California Women Lead?

No. California Women Lead's membership is comprised of both women and men who are interested in supporting women in public office. While many of our members are elected or appointed, we also have a great number of members who work in the public and private sectors.

2) Does California Women Lead endorse candidates?

No. Under our bylaws and nonprofit 501 c 3 status, we do not endorse or provide funds to candidates or office holders.

3) Does California Women Lead support legislation or bills?

No. Under our bylaws and nonprofit 501 c 3 status, we do not support any legislation or bills. California Women Lead will, however, offer programs that provide a forum for stimulating public discussion on issues as they relate to women, families, and children.