Helen Archontou, CEO, YWCA Northern New Jersey hosted the April Exchange. Her commitment to the organization’s mission, eliminating racism and empowering women, was palpable. 

The YWCA Northern New Jersey is currently spearshading the Every Voice Counts campaign designed to make civic participation accessible, inclusive and actionable for every woman in our state. Democracy works best when it reflects the people it serves. By encouraging diverse women to have conversations about voting in everyday life, we are more likely to not only see more women civically involved in their communities, but to also consider running for office. Helen discussed the structural and social barriers to more women running for office and the need for mentorship, sponsorship and access to capital to help overcome these obstacles. 

“Voting is a year round sport” and The YWCANNJ is committed to expanding access and opportunity to all voters.

Please click here for a recording of the Exchange.

If you’re interested in running for office, here’s a list of resources to support your ambition:

• Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP-Rutgers): caep@rci.rutgers.edu
• New Jersey Federation of Republican Women (NJFRW): c.gallenthin@njfrw.org
• Elect Women NJ: info@electwomennj.com
• League of Women Voters of New Jersey: info@lwvnj.org