The 2nd* most frequent question we get at VoteRunLead is about the elected office itself. With our busy lives and lack of civics in schools, we find ourselves in the dark about what local government / local elected offices actually do everyday.

Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered!

“The Big 4: The Ins and Outs of Local Government,” is where we breakdown the roles and responsibilities of City Councils, County Offices, State Legislatures, and School Boards with a dynamic and diverse group of women holding these positions right now! 

The Big 4 will help you figure out where your policy passions get legislated:

  • Care about your kid’s curriculum? Become a voice on the School Board and rally for high-quality education.
  • Want to bolster downtown revitalization? Get your city government galvanized to make it happen.
  • Hope to influence water policy? Head to the capital so your state can be a model for the nation.

City Council Roles & Responsibilities

Thinking about running for city council? Come meet women making a difference everyday in their communities by serving on city council and in city government. Find out what the job is really like and how you can impact your community by serving at the City level.

State Legislature

Is the state legislature for you? Whether is the state house or senate, hear from female lawmakers about how they influence policy in their district and statewide, engage with constituents and colleagues, and propose bills that change the lives of millions of people.

School Board

While your local school board is arguably the most direct and open vehicle to improving schools, few people know what a school board actually does. Learn the role school boards play to help you understand why this elected position is so important.

County Commission

By definition, a county commission (also known as a board of county commissioners) is a group of elected officials charged with administering the county government in some states of the United States. County commissions are usually made up of three or more individuals. Clear as mud? The roles and duties of county commissioners are numerous and varied. Counties are complex organizations, operating literally dozens of distinct functions. We’ll unpack the duties of a county commission so you can decide if this elected position is right for you.

Know a great leader who should be sharing her expertise on these clinics? Shoot us her name by “suggesting the best” and we will be in touch!

* The #1 question we get is on finances ranging from raising funds and making a living. Check out our Fundraising 101 VRL Live Replay with Stephanie Berger. Learn more about Fundraising at your own pace when you’re a member of VRL Nation, and you can access our entire resource library to build your political leadership skills.