The Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Women's Leadership Network (WLN) is a dedicated organization that strives to empower women to become strong, independent leaders. Through its various programs, events, and volunteer opportunities, the WLN provides a platform for women to support each other on their leadership journeys and to advise and inspire the next generation of female leaders. The Strickland Women's Leadership Council is also committed to this mission, offering seminars and programs led by successful women who are leaders in their own communities and industries. The initiative focuses on supporting and encouraging women in the workplace, while also preparing the next generation of women for success. To ensure that the United States becomes a reflective democracy, policymakers and advocates must address the significant inequities and barriers that women face when running for elected office.
With the election of Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, the first woman in history to hold the presidency of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, returning to that position in the 117th Congress, and 118 women in the House of Representatives (27 percent), 24 women in the Senate (24 percent) and nine women governors (18 percent), it is evident that more women are getting involved in leadership positions. The WLN is open to all adults and membership is free. It has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Individual Legacy Builder (Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri) award, the Hellenic Spirit Athena award, the Distinguished Citizen of the Year award, the Quest award, the Women of Achievement award, and many others. As more women get involved in leadership roles, there will be continued collaboration with the community while also preparing the next generation of female leaders. The WLN is committed to helping fulfill this mission by providing programs, events and volunteer opportunities to connect women to each other and to Girl Scouts. With these initiatives in place, it is clear that more women are taking on leadership roles and are prepared to set the tone and shape policies at all levels of government as the country recovers from a traumatic year and moves toward a more progressive future.
