Start a Local League
Local Leagues are the backbone of our organization. Our local volunteers work year-round to engage their communities, provide voters with the election information they need, and connect people with local government.
We are excited you're interested in starting a new League, and we are here to help! We can walk you through these steps. Please reach out to us at nodaklwv@gmail.com.
1. Gather Members in Your Area
Sign up as an at-large member and recruit 4-5 more members in your area
2. Review the League's Policies and Positions
Understand and subscribe to the League's Nonpartisan Policy, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Policy, and positions in Impact on Issues.
3. Schedule a Chapter Organizing Meeting
In this meeting, you will adopt a League name, DEI and nonpartisan policy, and bylaws. You will also elect your Board leaders, like president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. You will move to set up a bank account, and plan when your next meeting will take place.
4. Apply for an Employer ID Number (EIN)
You can apply for one on IRS.gov. Reach out to us if you need the steps!
5. Incorporate with the Secretary of State
You can apply at ND's First Stop website. Reach out to us if you need the steps!
6. Set Up Your Bank Account
You will need to bring your organizing meeting minutes and EIN.
7. Notify the North Dakota League
Email us any time in this process and let us know how things are going. Before you apply for recognition as a League, please let us know you'll be doing so.
8. Apply to LWVUS for Recognition
The LWVUS Board will review your application at their next Board meeting, which occurs every 2-3 months. You are welcome to continue planning and holding activities under the North Dakota League while you wait to hear back. Apply here to LWVUS.
9. Celebrate - You Did It!
Celebrate at your next member meeting! You are amazing and we’re so excited you can join us in empowering North Dakota voters.
10. Next Steps
After you receive a confirmation email that you are approved, LWVUS will send you a League logo, and you can create your social media pages. The ND League will set up a webpage for you on the state League’s website that you can manage. After you've chosen a communications lead for your League, please have them schedule training with ND League before they begin.
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Choose your media spokesperson, which is usually the League president or someone else assigned from your Board leadership. ​
Finally, you’ll need to set your annual budget. The ND League's Treasurer can assist you.
Resources