Introduction

Our Programs Drive Systemic Change

Our programs prepare women to lead by training them to advocate for policy change, shape community initiatives, and take an active role in decision-making.

Leadership Development

WCC launched the PowerUp Civic Leadership Initiative in 2024 to train, empower and connect emerging civic leaders.

If you are interested in partnering with WCC to bring our civic leadership cohort program to your organization or community, please fill out the form below.

WCC’s civic leadership cohorts bring together NYC women to strengthen their understanding of government, build advocacy skills, and create action plans for issues that matter most to them. Each cohort fosters collaboration, confidence, and lasting civic engagement through a curriculum that is customizable and co-created with each community it serves.

What is WCC’s new civic leadership initiative?

In 2024, WCC launched a civic leadership initiative to create pathways for underrepresented New York women to become engaged civic leaders.

What does the program include?

The program provides civic engagement and advocacy training, helping participants strengthen their knowledge of government systems and practice advocacy skills.

How long is the program?

This depends on each cohort's needs, however, the inaugural cohort met over six months, with participants also receiving ongoing support through quarterly workshops and individual advocacy coaching sessions.

What do participants work on during the program?

Each participant develops a personal civic action plan focused on issues important to them and their communities.

What topics are covered in the training?

Training sessions cover many topics, including coalition building, using personal narrative in advocacy, and power mapping.

What impact did the program have on participants?

  • 82% rated the cohort as excellent.
  • All participants reported feeling more knowledgeable and more likely to take civic action.
  • 94% said they feel more confident taking action.
  • 100% said they would recommend the cohort to a friend.

Cohort Testimonials

WCC’s inaugural Civic Leadership Cohort had a powerful impact:
This partnership helped University Settlement staff new to civic engagement understand their power to drive change and gain key skills. We’re grateful for WCC’s leadership, expertise, collaborative spirit, and outstanding workshop facilitators.

Jennifer Vallone

Associate Executive Director Jun. 2025
We all have power, skills, and tools that can be used to advocate for ourselves and our communities.

Anonymous

Cohort Participant Jul. 2025
Effective advocacy isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about building relationships, sharing real stories, and showing up consistently to push for change

Anonymous

Cohort Participant Jul. 2025
No idea is too small, always think big to make the impossible.

Anonymous

Cohort Participant Jul. 2025
The information was valuable, the energy was inspiring, and I walked away feeling like many people wanted to speak up and speak out. You have to be willing to take the first steps, and this group helped to provide some direction in preparation.

Anonymous

Cohort Participant Jul. 2025
These workshops helped me to find a community of advocators and helped me from ideas to real plans. I really appreciate the education and practice together with the group.

Anonymous

Cohort Participant Jul. 2025
I really enjoyed this enriching experience. Every session was full of significant knowledge, tools, encouraging real life stories, and empowerment.

Anonymous

Cohort Paricipant Jul. 2025

Webinars

Equipping women with the knowledge to lead.

Our webinars offer an in-depth look at city-wide efforts to advance gender equality and civic engagement.

What You Can Do to Increase Abortion Access and Decrease Abortion Stigma in New York

Webinar

CUNY Career Compass for Women Leaders Conference: Change Making Careers in Reproductive Justice

Webinar

Beyond the Podium: Unpacking the Impact of 2024 State of the State

Webinar

Webinar

What You Can Do to Increase Abortion Access and Decrease Abortion Stigma in New York

Webinar

CUNY Career Compass for Women Leaders Conference: Change Making Careers in Reproductive Justice

Webinar

Beyond the Podium: Unpacking the Impact of 2024 State of the State

Voter Registration

Your vote shapes your community. Make sure your voice is heard.

The leaders elected today make decisions that affect yourself, your family, and your community. If you have moved, changed your name, or have not voted recently, check your registration status. Local elections determine who leads on issues that touch your daily life, including schools, public safety, transit, housing, and more.