The Appointments Project helps women get appointed to civic boards and commissions, strengthening our economies by creating leadership reflective of the communities they serve.

Are you ready to make a difference?

United WE’s Appointments Project Journey Groups bring women together to learn about civic leadership opportunities in their communities, identify relevant skills and experience, and navigate the appointment process.

Learn More

Current Journey Group Openings

Mid-Missouri

Apply Today

Applications close December 14, 2026

United WE invites women in Columbia and the surrounding area to apply for an interactive learning journey exploring service on appointed boards and commissions. Three Journey Groups will meet monthly from January through May of 2026.

Want to learn more about Journey Groups and discover if the program is the right fit for you? Join our informational webinar on November 19, 2026 at 10 AM CT.

Register here for the webinar.

About Journey Groups

United WE’s Appointments Project Journey Groups bring women together to learn about civic leadership opportunities in their communities, identify relevant skills and experience, and navigate the appointment process. United WE hosts cohorts of women, supporting participants in launching their civic leadership journey.

As a Journey Group Participant you will…
- Gain clarity and confidence in how you want to lead in your community
- Identify board and commission opportunities that align with your skills and passions
- Grow your community of civic-minded women in the Mid-Missouri region
- Develop an action plan for civic leadership
- Five 90-minute sessions over 5 months
- 1-2 hours of pre/homework per month
- All groups attend a kick-off meeting, mid-session meeting, and a wrap-up party during the 5th month
Application Questions Summary:
- General demographic questions
- Meeting availability and preferences (virtual, in-person, days of week, times, etc.)
- Education and Experience
- Civic Background (experience not required)
  - Hopes for the Journey Groups experience
  - Strengths and points for growth as a civic leader
  - Civic engagement activities
  - Appointed board or commission service
  - Volunteer board service
- Qualified applicants will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis through rolling review of applications. Applicants who do not meet one or more of the selection criteria may be waitlisted or invited to re-apply at a future time. Applications will close on December 14th, 2026.
For the 2027 Journey Groups, we are seeking women who…
- Reside in Columbia, Missouri or the surrounding area.
- Have some interest in civic experience, but have never served on an elected or appointed board.
- Are interested in exploring board and commission opportunities with the goal of attaining appointment in the future.
- Can commit to participating in all sessions of the journey group experience. Session meeting dates vary by group.
Please email apjourney@united-we.org.

Thank you to our sponsors.