Having more than 173 members from across Lakewood, the group includes people from a variety of backgrounds, including members connected to the school board and other leadership roles. This range of perspectives helps bring in support, discussion, and fact-based analysis. This month’s meeting happened on March 21, 2026, from 10 a.m.- 11 p.m., lasting an hour, making it so it doesn’t disrupt someone’s day, and they could go to work afterwards if need be.
The League is organized into different focus areas, where members discuss specific topics and present current issues. Some participants hold leadership roles beyond the local chapter, such as advocacy positions within the Greater Cleveland chapter.
This allows the group to examine issues more deeply, including topics like school levies. The League does not take positions on issues without first researching and reviewing reliable data.
The organization consistently supports full funding for education and emphasizes the state’s responsibility to fund public schools. Members regularly discuss how funding decisions affect local districts and the broader community.
“We engage with the high school students. We make sure they are registered to vote, and we do the celebration of the vote,” said Theresa Permenter, president and chairperson of the Lakewood League. In addition to discussions, the group focuses on helping eligible students and community members understand how to register and participate in elections.
Permenter has been part of this for about four years, serving not only as the president but also working in voter registration and services. Her leadership reflects her commitment to civic engagement and informed discussion.
The League encourages new members to join, especially younger participants. Members say expanding youth involvement would bring new perspectives and increase engagement.
“[It] would be great to have more youth involvement, for sure. Because there’s nothing stronger than peers talking to their peers,” said Candace Martin, a League member and advocacy chair for the Greater Cleveland chapter.
Having members connected to the larger regional organization allows the Lakewood chapter to stay informed about issues beyond the city. These connections provide additional perspectives and help members understand how local concerns relate to broader trends.
Working with both state and national organizations, the League addresses issues that go beyond Lakewood, focusing on topics that impact voters at multiple levels.
Kathleen McGorry, a member of the program committee, said, “We partner with the Chamber of Commerce to put on the candidates’ night, where everybody can hear from the candidates.” These events give community members a chance to learn directly from candidates and better understand their positions.
In addition to discussing current issues, members vote at the end of meetings on what topics to focus on next. With a wide range of concerns to address, these “hot topics” help guide future discussions and ensure members stay informed.
The League of Women Voters Lakewood chapter recently changed its meeting schedule and now meets on the second Sunday of the month. More information can be found on its Instagram page: lakewoodlwv.
