The Westchester County Women's Advisory Board is unique in the nation as an advisory board on women's issues to both the executive and legislative branches of government. The Board was established in January 1984 by the Executive branch of County government through Resolution 203 which was approved by the Board of Legislators. It is comprised of representatives from each of the county's 17 legislative districts and up to 10 additional at-large members. The Board represents a wide and diverse cross section of Westchester women.
The Women's Advisory Board meets in person or virtually approximately six times annually on the third Monday of the month generally from 5:30 – 7 p.m. and participates in special events sponsored by the Office for Women. The Board forms committees, as needed, on particular concerns such as children and families, criminal justice, health, mothers and homemakers, older women, social services, voter participation and the county budget.
Through position papers, correspondence, meetings with public officials and statements at public hearings, the Women's Advisory Board provides input and advocates its positions to public officials on a range of issues pertaining to societal concerns such as homeless mothers and their children, treatment of drug abusing pregnant women, the needs of the aging population, human rights issues, domestic violence, daycare and housing. Areas of concern are flexible and can vary according to current events.
The Board is assisted in its duties by the Office for Women and supports that office's programs and activities.
Shannon Powell is the chair.
View Town Hall Meeting I Recording: Staying Sane in Pandemic Times
View Town Hall Meeting II Recording: Issues Facing Immigrant Women
View Town Hall Meeting III Recording: Achieving Health Equity - Navigating Black Maternal Care and Other Health Disparities
Town Hall Meeting IV: Economic Equality - Aren't We Worth It? (Recording coming soon)
View resource list
View Yonkers resources