ENERGIZE Leadership Training

Saturday, September 20, 1:00–4:00 pm

It’s time for LWVIL’s annual leadership training! This virtual event is open to all new and experienced leaders of Illinois local Leagues, as well as any interested members. We will learn about hot topics Leagues are facing and gain tools for moving forward.

Our ENERGIZE program will be divided into three breakout sessions. We are offering workshops on ten different topics. Workshops will be repeated over multiple sessions so that each attendee can join three workshops of their choice.

All ENERGIZE registrants will also receive a video recording outlining what LWVUS and LWVIL do to support local Leagues. Please watch this recording prior to September 20 so you can bring questions to the ENERGIZE event. A little homework is always healthy and will allow us to make good use of live meeting time.

Our training for current and future League presidents will be held prior to ENERGIZE at our monthly We Meet Wednesday meeting on September 10. There will be two sessions: register to attend at noon or 7:00 pm. Please encourage potential leaders from your local League to attend.

Workshop Topics

  1. Development and Fundraising (Sessions 2 & 3): Fundraising is mission work that fuels democracy. Learn about different fundraising approaches and opportunities, donor engagement and building a culture of philanthropy. At the conclusion of this workshop, you will have the information you need to create realistic fundraising goals, create a simple development plan and identify quick wins. Presenting is Shefali Trivedi.

  2. Membership Recruitment and Engagement (Sessions 2 & 3): This workshop will focus on ways to increase the degree to which members feel a connection to their local community and League. We will discuss ten actionable ideas for connecting to our communities, residents, “place attachment,” and our members. Presenting is Chris Kubic.

  3. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): This workshop will cover the ABC commitments to access, belonging, and community within your local League and beyond. With an open heart and a ready mind, learn strategic steps to welcome the benefits of diversity and inclusion. Presenting are LWVIL’s DEI Committee members.

  4. Voter Services (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): Voter services and education remain the cornerstone of League work. This workshop will present information on Observer Corps, voter registration, voter engagement, youth involvement, and VOTE411. Presenting is Roberta Borrino, LWVIL Vice President for Voter Service.

  5. Advocacy & Lobbying: Using Your Voice to Support LWVIL Program Priorities (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): This workshop will explore the power of LWVIL’s grassroots members as a vehicle for advancing the 2025-27 Program approved by delegates in June. We will discuss LWVIL’s Lobby Corps and Lobby Day, and why lobbying is for all of us. We will also provide tools to help members address various issues facing our country due to abuse of power and the failure of Congress to take action. Presenting is Kathy Cortez, LWVIL Vice President for Issues and Advocacy.

  6. Tech Tools (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): This workshop will help leaders understand the use and capacity of Canva for fliers, advertisements and printed material. Canva is a free resource available to local Leagues through LWVIL. There will also be information on LWVIL Zoom accounts and how to request using them. Presenting are Ashley Kratschmer and Michelle Thorsell, LWVIL Board Secretary.

  7. Social Media and Outreach (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): This workshop will cover strategies and resources for maximizing your League’s messaging on social media. Bring your questions! Presenting is Sophie Mucciaccio, LWVIL Communications Assistant.

  8. LWV Member Portal (ChapterSpot) Surprises (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): This workshop will cover features of the new LWV Member Portal that can serve your local League with supporting documents and information about your local. These areas are being encouraged by LWV to help keep accurate information. There will also be an opportunity for some problem solving. Presenting is Jeanne Kearby, LWVIL Vice President for Membership.

  9. Treasurer Training (Session 1 only): This workshop will discuss best practices for League treasurers, tax reporting for 501c3 and 501c4, and information on banking and record keeping. Presenting is Jeff Knezovich, LWVIL Treasurer.

  10. Listening Post (Sessions 1, 2, & 3): Listening Post is an open space for all questions and comments. Hosting is Rosemary Heilemann.