Emerge California

Application Process for 2013

The Emerge California application process for the Class of 2013 is now closed.  Applications for the Class of 2014 will open in July of 2013.

Selection Criteria

Emerge California seeks bright, self-motivated women who are committed to effective political leadership and are committed to run for elective office and who have:

• evidence of political leadership experience or potential, and meaningful involvement in workplace or community;
• interest in running for political office;
• demonstrated ability to bring together disparate groups to achieve a goal;
• ability and desire to build effective networks;
• ability to articulate a personal political vision;
• demonstrated ability to inspire others; and
• commitment to full participation and attendance requirements of the trainings.

Applicants must be women who are Democrats and who reside in the state of California.

Emerge California will select between 20-30 women from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.

Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation or physical abilities.

Tuition

Tuition for the Emerge California Program is $1000.  Tuition offsets the cost of Emerge California's out-of-pocket costs for providing the weekend training sessions.  There is also a mandatory $75 materials fee.  Emerge California believes that individual circumstances should NOT be a barrier to participation in the program.  Partial financial aid may be awarded after admission to the program.

Application Fee

A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application.  You can make the payment online or mail a check or money order payable to Emerge California. 

Time Commitment

The success of the Emerge California program depends upon commitment to the program's entire schedule by each participant.  Over the seven-month period, approximately 70 Program hours are scheduled.  Some time outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation. 

During the course of the seven-month Program, Emerge California participants are also required to volunteer for a minimum of 10 hours on a political campaign of their choosing. Successful completion of all Program and volunteer hours is mandatory to graduate from the Emerge Program.

Fundraising Commitment

Program participants are also required to raise a minimum of $1000 for the Emerge California program during the program year.  The program offers many opportunities for participants to fullfil this requirement including selling tickets to low-dollar receptions, house parties, the annual Spring event and volunteering for call-time. 

Emerge California staff are also on hand to assist with personal fundraising endeavors as well.  The program is committed to helping women become excellent fundraisers and raising funds for the organization is one of the best - and most fun - ways to perfect this skill.

For more information email contact@emergeca.org