Women in Politics (WIP) is a three-day summer institute for young women from the Sacramento region. Participants get a first-hand look at the workings of state politics, focusing on issues affecting women and their communities.
Our presence in Sacramento and our lasting relationships with the players in state politics allow us to offer a unique experience to young women. We have access to a rich pool of supporters who lend their expertise to our programs – more than forty women, including liberals, moderates, and conservatives, volunteer their time to share information and perspectives. WIP provides an opportunity for young women to meet the people who represent them at the state capitol, and to witness first-hand the importance of women’s participation in the political process.









About CalCenter
The California Center for Civic Participation is a non-profit civic education organization,
engaging high school students by sparking their interest with exposure to real excitement of the
democratic process. We believe that youth hold so much untapped and unlimited power to change
their communities and their world and we exist to expose and nurture that power.
We believe that: Youth are not a problem to solve, but a resource to nurture.
Through our programs, thousands of young people across the state have become active players in the public
policies affecting their communities. In addition to making informed decisions on today’s issues, youth gain the skills, tools and resources to thoughtfully assess the questions of tomorrow. Our time-tested and holistic approach to learning gives youth a clear pathway for how to think about the issues, but not what to think. We make learning
about government fun, accessible and relatable. Young people leave our programs more motivated,
better informed and ready to take meaningful civic action in their everyday lives.
Young people leave our programs more motivated,
better informed and ready to take meaningful civic action
in their everyday lives.
Our mission is to empower youth to be active and valued participants in decision making processes
at all levels.
In our vision all young people have the skills to analyze and think critically about public policy and systems of government in order to become informed individuals who actively participate in a democratic society.
Learn more about the Vision and Values that shape the CalCenter's work every day.


Since 1981, we've been supporting young people in learning about, responding to, and acting in the political process.
We Need Your Support Today!
CalCenter staff and directors support youth as they identify and tackle challenges in their own communities and work with peers and adults to affect changes


Thank you to an amazing group of sponsors that support and grow our work to engage youth in our democracy.