2008 READY TO RUN(TM)
Since 2003, the Women's Fund of Greater Omaha and the Lincoln Mayor's Commission on Women (formerly the Lincoln-Lancaster Women's Commission) have collaborated in presenting a program to help women prepare to run for elected office. Ready to Run (TM), an educational opportunity developed by the Center for American Women in Politics (CAWP) in the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, provides women glimpses into the skills and contacts needed to enter the world of elected politics.
Over the past four years' presentations, evaluations reveal that women have great concerns about garnering financial support for campaigns. This year, the Fund and the Commission produced "Focus on Fundraising" on April 5 for women in the region who have made the decision to seek elected office. Providing valuable insight were Jennifer Fulcher, a professional fundraiser for Congressman Lee Terry and Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning. Two interactive exercises developed by Ready to Run(TM) Steering Committee member Laura Schabloske (Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands) that focused attention on developing circles of influence and honing campaign messages.
Rounding out the day's activities was a panel of seasoned women candidates, Anne Boyle and Brenda Council. Ms. Boyle, a member of the Public Service Commission who has announced her candidacy for 2008 and Ms. Council, a candidate for the Nebraska Unicameral in District 21, provided first-hand experiences and advice on fund-raising challenges.
Evaluations from the group attending rated "Focus on Fundraising" as an unqualified success. Future programs for Ready to Run (TM) are in the planning stage to enlist and support women in running for elected office. To be added to the list for future offerings, email info@omahawomensfund.