Fort Worth is Among First U.S. Cities to Experience Planned Expansion of Award-Winning Program
The Office of Mayor Price in partnership with the Appointments Project® today announce their collaborative partnership to increase the number of women on local boards and commissions. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed 130 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent women of color since inception.
“I’ve seen first-hand the need to increase gender parity and better drive representation across civic leadership to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents,” Mayor Price said. “Our partnership with the Appointments Project® is strengthening our city by increasing the number of women, including women of color, who are at the decision-making table of their communities.”
The Appointments Project® serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse, qualified applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The Appointments Project® guides women through the process of applying for these positions and recommends applicants for appointment.
“Our research showed us that women don’t become civically engaged because they weren’t being asked. As a result, we created the Appointments Project® so local boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, Women’s Foundation President & CEO. “We’re thankful to have Fort Worth be among the first cities in the U.S. to expand the program with the help of partners like Mayor Price. Together, we are addressing the gender disparities in local leadership and able to make real changes in our communities.”
Based on a growing number of success stories, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country. The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to work with elected officials and better community representation that leads to better lives for all.
Public training events will begin in August 2020. “We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” Mayor Price said.
To learn more about the Appointments Project® visit www.appointmentsproject.org. A recording of the press conference is available here.