League of Women Voters of Seattle Education Fund Programs
These are ongoing programs that we do every year:
Civic Resource
In 2012 we updated and distributed 50,000 copies of our voter’s directory of elected officials (They Represent You) which covers all local offices in King County and all state and federal offices for Washington State. The directory is made available online as well as in print and goes out to individuals, government offices, and nonprofit and community organizations throughout King County.
Public Forums
In 2011-12 we sponsored or co-sponsored 12 public forums regarding ballot issues, candidates for office, and current public policy issues. Topics included: the role of the federal government in education, privatization of government resources, the census, the Seattle waterfront, developing effective teachers, and open government. Most forums were recorded and rebroadcast on government television stations as well as the internet. In addition, we provided moderators and/or technical expertise to other community organizations holding their own election forums.
Voter Education
In 2011-12 we researched, produced and distributed summary analyses of 10 ballot measures in King County and Washington. Through our speaker’s bureau, trained volunteers also presented the information to over a thousand people at 25 community locations and discussed the importance of voting and civic engagement.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Ongoing Successes
The League continues to bring high-caliber community leaders and experts to events where members of the public have the opportunity to learn and ask their questions directly. This year’s speakers included the Superintendent of Public Instruction in Washington, the president of the Port of Seattle, and several university professors. We have also increased our collaboration with other organizations to expand the reach of our services. Finally, despite myriad demands on personal time, we continue to attract and retain the excellent volunteers who are essential to our success.
Special Opportunity
This summer we have an opportunity to publish a series of newspaper articles on electing the President of the United States but lack the necessary financial underwriting to implement it fully. We would also like to create better, more searchable, online versions of our materials. However, our current equipment, software and technical expertise limits our capacity to do so.