AAUW is excited to announce two programs in the Elect Her initiative that will empower and train high school girls to run for office. Running Start’s National Young Women’s Political Leadership Program and Race to the Capitol are now accepting applications for 2011.

National Young Women’s Political Leadership Program in Washington, D.C.

Running Start’s nationally renowned, highly competitive Young Women’s Political Leadership Program introduces high school girls to the importance of women in political leadership. The program will be held in Washington, D.C., July 18–23, 2011. It is free to participants, and travel scholarships to Washington are available for those in need. Applications are due February 16!

Race to the Capitol Video Contest

Two Running Start alumni have created Race to the Capitol, a contest for high school girls interested in leadership and politics. A girl may enter by submitting an application and 30-second video explaining why she wants to be president of the United States. Visit the contest website to enter by March 15!

The Elect Her initiative, a collaboration between AAUW, Running Start, and the Women’s Campaign Forum, aims to expand the pipeline of women running for elective office. Please distribute these opportunities for high school girls throughout your network.