Recently, United WE’s Appointments Project® announced its expansion to Richmond, Virginia. The Office of Mayor Levar Stoney and the National League of Cities, in collaboration with Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR), announced their partnership to increase the number of women on local boards and commissions through United WE’s Appointments Project. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project has facilitated 175 women being placed on boards and commissions.
“I’ve seen first-hand the need to address racial and gender disparities in civic leadership to ensure that we are drawing on the talents and diverse perspectives of our residents.” Myra Goodman Smith, LMR’s President and CEO, said. “Our partnership with the City of Richmond and United WE’s Appointments Project will strengthen the city by increasing the number of women and women of color who are at the decision-making table of their communities.”
United WE’s Appointments Project serves as a talent bank, advisor, and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The award-winning approach guides women through applying for these positions and suggests applicants for appointment.
“Our research showed us that women don’t become civically engaged because they weren’t being asked. As a result, we created the Appointments Project so local boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “With the help of partners like Mayor Levar Stoney and Leadership Metro Richmond, we are addressing the gender disparities in local leadership and are able to make significant changes in our communities.”
The Appointments Project fills a critical need in creating a pathway to more equitable and inclusive representation. Based on a growing number of success stories and city partnerships, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country.
An Information Session will be held virtually on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 6:00 pm EST with United WE, city officials, and LMR. Learn about the Information Session here or register for the session here.
“We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” Mayor Stoney said.