The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Any person of voting age, male or female, may become a League member.

INTRODUCTION TO THE LEAGUE
There are many reasons for joining the League of Women Voters. Membership in the League can lead to self-education, an understanding of community problems and the ability to act effectively on issues of public interest. The League's purpose, its open membership, its independence from partisan politics and its democratic procedures attract men and women of all ages and backgrounds.

PURPOSE
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

HISTORY
In 1920, Carrie Chapman Catt organized the League of Women Voters of the United States. The League's first goal was to teach women how to exercise their new right to vote. The scope was soon enlarged to include service to all citizens. Political action, based on knowledge gained from study, became the cornerstone of the League's diverse agenda.

NONPARTISANSHIP
The League may take political action on issues on which member agreement has been reached. The League never supports or opposes any political party or candidate for elective office, but members, as individuals, are encouraged to participate fully in the political process. Because of scrupulous adherence to this nonpartisan political policy, the League takes action in the public interest.

MEMBERSHIP

• Membership in the League of Women Voters is open to everyone.
• Voting members are citizens at least 18 years old who are enrolled in a local League. Associate members are persons enrolled in a local League who are under 18 years old, or non-citizens enrolled in a local League.
• Members-at-large are members who live outside the area of, and are not enrolled in, any local League. Life members are voting members who have belonged to the League for 50 years. Life members pay no dues.
• One may join the League at the local, county, state or national level. Membership in the League encompasses all four levels.
  

ORGANIZATION
The League of Women Voters works on the local, county, state and national level. Members of the local League elect their officers and board of directors at an annual meeting. Delegates are sent to county, state and national conventions to participate in the major decisions at those levels. Local League members decide what will be studied, what action will be taken, how League money will be spent and who League leaders will be for all the levels. The League is a grassroots organization and League members are very protective of this concept.

The League of Women Voters of Shaker Heights was formed in 1948 and currently has 215 members. We actively influence civic leadership in Shaker Heights through observing and reporting on significant Shaker Heights government entities and advocating for positive change using well-researched and thoughtful positions.