United WE’s Appointments Project® Announces Expansion to New Orleans
Kansas City, MO – Young Leadership Council and United WE today announce their collaborative partnership to increase the number of women on local boards and commissions through the Appointments Project®. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed more than 180 women on boards and commissions.
“I’ve seen first-hand the need to increase leadership opportunities in civic leadership to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all members,” said Camille Sumner, Executive Director of New Orleans’s YLC. “Our partnership with United WE and the Appointments Project® is strengthening our organization’s commitment to increase leadership positions for young professionals with a focus on increasing the number of women 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 the process of 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 New Orleans Young Leadership Council and the National League of Cities, we are addressing the gender disparities in local leadership and able to make real changes in our communities.”
The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to more equitable and inclusive representation. Approximately 42% of the Appointments Project registrants are women of color. Based on a growing number of success stories and city partnerships, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country.
“A public training event is planned for February 9, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. CST. We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” Sumner said.
To register for the virtual training event on February 9, 2023, visit here. To learn more about the Appointments Project® visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project.