Committee work is one of the most interesting and rewarding experiences many of us have as League members. Some committees study issues relating to their subject areas, conduct activities and recommend position-taking. Others help our League grow. Listed below are our committees, with a few examples of what they do.
Additional committees may be formed by volunteers interested in a community issue.
Voter Services Committee
Voter Services is our Leagues most important activity. Given our strong commitment to voter education and participation, our League does everything we can to register voters, help educate voters and encourage a high turnout. Some of our activities include candidate forums, programs any issue on the ballot, voter registration, voter education materials and programs, production of nonpartisan voter’s guides (printed, on the web and emailed) and voter telephone assistance.
See also Election Reform Advocacy. Chair: Carolyn Sheets, (941) 226-1056, info@lwvmanatee.org
Membership Committee
Our Membership Committee encourages community members to join the League and take part in our activities. In addition, membership conducts outreach activities to educate citizens about the League and the importance of its work and develops an annual orientation for members and prospective members. The more members the LWVMC has, the more we can accomplish!
Chair: Felecia Jett, (518) 751-1903, info@lwvmanatee.org
Communications Committee
This committee helps us communicate with our members and the entire community with newsletters and announcements about League and member activities and achievements. They may also develop displays, flyers and handouts. A subcommittee maintains and improves our website.
Chair: Open, Web Subcommittee: Charlene Altenahain, (941) 713-7769, info@lwvmanatee.org
Education Committee
This committee conducts studies on educational issues and organizes public information programs. They make recommendations for a strong and high quality public school system, affordable pre-school education, and encourage the growth of higher education in Manatee County.
See also Education Advocacy Chair: Merrie Lynn Parker, (941) 792-8314, info@lwvmanatee.org
Government Issues Committee
This committee makes recommendations for improvements in the operation of government and its agencies. It monitor government practices for ethics and advocates for public participation. In addition, this committee monitors growth issues; studies county and local government comprehensive planning and make recommendations on plans, rules, and specific projects before the boards.
Chair: Ginger McCallum, (410) 207-6895, info@lwvmanatee.org
Natural Resources Committee
Manatee County’s environment is the cornerstone of our health, economy and enjoyment of living in Manatee County. Committee members work to protect and improve and protect our natural resources such as water, wetlands, mangroves and seagrasses. We also promote land preservation for wildlife and recreation, and expansion of clean energy.
See also Environment Advocacy Chair: Steven Murphy, (352) 870-1798, info@lwvmanatee.org
Health Care Committee
This committee researches and recommends policies and practices that improve access to quality health care to all citizens of Manatee County, including preventative care, and encouraging healthy lifestyles. They participate in local collaborative efforts.
See also Health Care Advocacy and Gun Safety Advocacy Chair: Ruth Harenchar, (347-563-7377), info@lwvmanatee.org
Social Issues Committee
Members work on social issues affecting the citizens of Manatee County, e.g., diversity, homelessness, poverty, jobs, crime, drug addiction, teen pregnancy and gun safety. They collaborate with other community organizations to achieve goals.
See also Immigration Advocacy CoChairs: Helen Andersen, (732) 500-7099 and Diana Shoemaker, info@lwvmanatee.org
We encourage you to join a committee and make a difference.
Contact the committee chair or info@lwvmanatee.org
