The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

Founded in 1959, the Palos-Orland League of Women Voters will celebrate their 48th anniversary during 2007.  This local League has members from Oak Lawn to Frankfort, from Crestwood to Lemont and all the communities in between.  Local programming focuses on issues which affect everyone: the financial health of our local public school districts, the economy, environment, the aging of America, recycling and child welfare.

The Palos-Orland League has developed a solid reputation for moderating candidate and issue forums throughout the southwest suburban area.  The League conducts programs in our communities, open to the public, on various issues such as campaign finance, health care, child welfare, school funding and workshops such as So You Want to Be a Candidate.  Voter registration is conducted at the local high schools and many public places.  Forest Preserve restoration, an issue important to our League, led us to take an active role in opposing the sale of Cook County Forest Preserve land for commercial development.  Growth in the southwest suburbs and the consequent shortage of public transportation and crowded roads are also concerns.

Promoting an interest in good government to children and adults is a primary goal.  The League presents "Good Citizenship Awards" at the local middle schools.  The League works with several local school districts by coordinating the Illinois Student Vote program.

Meetings are held the second Saturday of the month September through April.  December is our Fireside Dinner and May is the Annual Meeting.  A membership breakfast is held during the summer months.  The League meets at public institutions in the towns the members represent.  The coffee pot is on at 9:30 AM and the public is always welcome to stop by for the meeting.

The League is a grassroots organization that exists on three levels: the local, state and national.  The League of Women Voters (LWVUS) celebrated its 85th birthday on February 14, 2005.  Generations of engaged members and citizens have dedicated their lives to making democracy work since the League's founding in 1920.  The League has been an important advocate in the fields of political reform and citizen engagement, and continues the vital push for changes that make our democracy stronger in the present.