On September 10th, 2022, in partnership with YWCA Metro-Phoenix, AIT brought our 4th Community Leadership Program (CLP) in 2022 to the community of Phoenix, Arizona, providing civic education and tools for civic engagement to more than 55 women.
Featured panelists in our panel “Conversation with Local Leaders” included State Representative Jennifer Longdon (State representative, Arizona LD24), Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari (Phoenix City Councilwoman, District 7), Councilwoman Betty Guardado (Phoenix City Council in Arizona, District 5.), May Mgbolu (Assistant Director of Policy and Advocacy, Arizona Center for Economic Progress), and Debbie Esparza (CEO, YWCA Metro-Phoenix). The panelists inspired attendees with their personal stories of how they overcame hardship to make a difference in their communities, how they got inspired to lead for women, as well as actionable steps to take to get involved.
After the panel, Kara Pelletier, President of the League of Women Voters Metro-Phoenix, facilitated a presentation on “How to Vote in Arizona 2022,” sharing requirements and advice to register to vote and engage in voting.
The event held Breakout sessions from local community organizations such as Mi Familia Vota Arizona, Phoenix Rescue Mission, and Live and Learn. During the Breakout sessions, participants had the opportunity to learn more about these organizations, the services they provide, and current initiatives to get involved.
Finally, local organizations provided information, tabling, and services to women, including A New Leaf, Arizona Coalition to End Sexual Violence, Gervonni Cares Inc, Live and Learn, The League of Women Voters Metro-Phoenix, Mi Familia Vota Arizona, YWCA Metro-Phoenix.
A special thanks to our co-host and partner, YWCA Metro-Phoenix. A big thank you also to our panelists and community partners.