Running Start

As a former mentor for this organization, I cannot say enough about the huge impact I have seen on young women as a result of the well thought out programs implemented by its leaders . To witness many years later the number of high-profile women who have become elected officials and policy makers; in addition to other roles, let's me know that my decision to be a small part of their journey was a good one. - Bonnie McDaniel Business Owner

I came to Running Start as a shy high schooler with a dream and now I have achieved so much from speaking on global stages to working in politics. I owe so much of my success to Running Start and all of the invaluable lessons I learned and the community I joined.

I 100% recommend Running Start to ANYONE looking into the program. I am an alumni of the Congressional Fellowship (Fall 2021), the Reykjavik Global Forum (Fall 2023) and participated in Next Step and the Young Women to Watch program (Spring 2024). Running Start provided me with the education and tools necessary to get connected with opportunities in my area, which propelled me to working in Republican grassroots organizing in Montana through a variety of arenas. Running Start has also provided me with invaluable career advice as an alumni, which in turn provided me with strength and confidence to chase my career goals without sacrificing my femininity.

I participated in Running Start's Young Women Political Leadership Academy over 10 years ago, during my summer after high school leading up to beginning my college career. Running Start equipped me with tools such as media training, awareness of political opportunities, networking, and tools if I chose to run for office. I would highly recommend Running Start as an organization to work with or participate in their programming.

My journey with Running Start transformed my life and catalyzed my professional development. As a participant in the Congressional Fellows program, I witnessed firsthand their unwavering commitment to increasing women's representation in public office and the hands-on support they provide to ensure that every young woman in their programs has an equal path to success. The Fellows program provided invaluable hands-on experience on Capitol Hill, while volunteering with ElectHer allowed me to train the next generation of leaders with practical campaign skills and knowledge.

What sets Running Start apart is their exceptional staff, who go above and beyond to mentor and support each participant. Their dedication to our growth was evident in every workshop, networking session, and training opportunity. Their ability to build a powerful network of politically engaged women has become an invaluable support system as I navigate my career in public policy and their impact extends far beyond the program duration. They're truly building a pipeline of confident, capable women leaders who will shape the future of American politics.

My first experience with Running Start was as a participant in their high school program (summer of 2011) -- it was incredibly transformative, and the lessons gained during that time have stayed with me through many phases of life. I learned -- in and out of the classroom -- about the intricacies of building and running a grassroots campaign. The training I received in public speaking, speech writing, and networking built my self-confidence and motivated me to volunteer on political campaigns throughout high school and college.
I had the opportunity to re-engage with Running Start as a part of their Next Step fellowship for alumna and continue building upon the foundations from over a decade ago.
The organization goes above and beyond to ensure women feel empowered and supported through every chapter of their professional and personal lives. It is a very special community that I hope continues to grow!

I am incredibly grateful for my time as a fellow with Running Start back in 2015. The organization’s commitment to empowering women in politics provided me with invaluable tools and resources that have significantly shaped my career. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support and mentorship. Thank you, Running Start, for believing in me and countless other women who are ready to lead

Excellent experience with Running Start over the years! Lots of learnings and growth as a young woman and they are phenomenal at keeping in touch.

Running Start isn’t just a program—it’s a launchpad for young women who aspire to lead. My experience with Running Start was nothing short of transformative, shaping my professional development, broadening my ambitions, and embedding within me a deep commitment to an impact-driven career.

As a participant in the Running Start Star Fellowship, I was immersed in a dynamic, hands-on experience that placed me in the heart of policymaking in Washington, D.C. The fellowship provided me with the rare opportunity to work on Capitol Hill, gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process, coalition-building, and the power of women’s leadership in governance. The mentorship, training, and peer network created an ecosystem of support that not only built my confidence but also sharpened my ability to navigate complex political and policy spaces.

Beyond professional growth, Running Start instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility—to use my voice, to uplift others, and to champion diverse leadership in public service and global affairs. It was here that I solidified my belief that leadership should be accessible, representative, and bold. The program encouraged me to take risks, think strategically, and understand that leadership is not about waiting for permission but about stepping forward with conviction.

Since my time with Running Start, I’ve dedicated my career to diversifying diplomacy, advancing women’s leadership in international security, and fostering the next generation of global changemakers. The lessons I learned, the network I built, and the confidence I gained continue to shape my work today.
For any young woman considering Running Start: get involved! Immerse yourself in the experience. It will change your life.

Interning at Running Start was one of the most profound experiences of my career. Running Start’s leadership embody the values of the organization, supporting staff’s growth and creating intentional opportunities for career advancement. As a young professional, I was given opportunities no other organization would provide. I was co create able to lead a panel with high level media experts. Running Start practices what they preach: bringing more women to the table and supporting them through the process. Their impact is immeasurable and cascades out with every new leader they train or support. Susannah is also one of the most excellent organization presidents I’ve ever witnessed - she is deeply sincere in her commitment to the work and remarkable in her ability to be both strategic, clever and caring. I would highly recommend Running Start as a program and employer to anyone.

Running Start is absolutely amazing! The high school program allowed me to gain invaluable knowledge and connections I could not get elsewhere, and everyone involved ensured all participants had a wonderful, educational experience. I couldn’t recommend them more!

Running Start provided me with the foundational tools to seek the career I have in politics in today. The community I've found in Running Start, with my fellow alums and the incredibly talented team at their HQ, have continued to buoy my professional (and personal) path. I'm so grateful for finding Elect Her when I was in undergrad and can't imagine how my life would look now without Running Start. Could not recommend this organization enough.

From participating as an intern, to working at Running Start for 12 years in all until last year, I have seen so much of what makes Running Start a stellar organization.

I have admired Running Start's culture of authenticity and civil discourse. Professionally, I support people with storytelling for social progress. When I have encountered Running Start alumnae in the world, they exude a calm confidence, and when they speak, they are clear and concise, always drawing attention to the change they want to bring about in the world. They are consistently impressive. In a time of great polarization, non-partisan organizations like Running Start are critical for dialing down the rhetoric and bringing the volume of political exchange down to a level where constructive conversations can take place and collaborations can come together.

I am continually impressed with the work of Running Start. My daughter participated in the program a few years ago and learned so much while working on the Hill for a woman member of Congress - she even got to deliver a key piece of legislation to the floor for a vote. The program offers such important skills and experiences to the young women it serves and provides the network of support that young women need to succeed in politics. The staff and leadership of Running Start are real innovators -- they are a model for the entire women's representation ecosystem to follow!

I am so inexplicably grateful to Running Start and all the phenomenal people who work there for their dedication to empowering young women. It's so easy as a young female to feel invalidated, uninformed, or unqualified to speak out on the things that matter to us, but Running Start tackles such insecurities head on. Their Young Women's Political Leadership Summit completely changed my life. After a week of lectures, discussions, and active sessions aimed at encouraging us all to find what we were passionate about and then to share these beliefs with not only our peers but also powerful, inspiring female role models, I've gained an unshakeable renewal in my own sense of self worth. I am so much more self-confident and supportive of other girls my age thanks to Running Start. I am forever grateful to this organization and the YWPL 2015 team!

Running start is a phenomenal organization that has my full support. I think it is obvious there is not equal representation in our government. Our Congress only consists of 19% women.. how is this fair? Running Start is leading the charge in bridging this gap. Through their programs such as the Young Women's Political Leadership program and Elect Her, they are instilling confidence in young girls and showing them that they are capable of achieving whatever they wish to do. Running Start works one on one with thousands of young women across the country every year. With Running Start's help, I can see women making up 50% of Congress during my lifetime.

Running Start is an amazing organization that gave me the tools and confidence to run for office in my hometown. Without this organization and their reputable program, the Running Start/ Walmart Star Fellowship, I would have never been able to intern full time in DC and make the connections that I now know. Furthermore, Running Start has given me "family" a group of high achieving, encouraging female peers and mentors that have pushed me to be more than I could have ever imagined on my own. Thank you so much Running Start!

Running Start Young Women's Political Retreat has been by far the best experience of my life. I was taken into another world. The speakers we had were amazing. I couldn't believe I met people who were from Ivy Leagues or CEO's. And, best of all they were women. Walking around DC was amazing. I was so thrilled to be there and grasp all the education they fed us in the five days. I would for more girls to be able to be part of Running Start. Susannah Shakow, the founder and president makes this program rich. Her presence is delightful. Plus, all the other staff made me and the rest of the girls feel so comfortable. I loved it. I came back home with a heart full of enery and need to live to bigger and better things. Because after Running Start I -know- I will be great and I have many opportunities.

Running Start is a program I would recommend to any young woman with a budding interest in politics. In mid 2008, a friend of friend alerted me about about a leadership program called Running Start, specifically targeted at young women in high school. Immediately, I jumped at the chance. I remember stressing over my application for several days, and then the nervousness that followed (I was worried because I had submitted my entry so close to the deadline). Even though, at the time, I knew very little about the program, I was desperate to be accepted. But I was shocked when I received a phone call later that week requesting a phone interview. It was brief, and after hanging up I remember over-analyzing my answers, and convincing myself that I had no chance of being accepted. Sure, the website said they would select all kinds of girls from all over; but why would they want me? I lived really far away from D.C., and I wasn't even enrolled in a real high-school (I was home-schooled). But they did accept me, and that was only the beginning. Although the program was short, it definitely changed my life, and helped transform me into the person I am becoming. I had the opportunity to meet girls from all backgrounds, all of us joined by a common interest in our community. All sorts of women came to speak to us, sharing their experiences and preparing us for the future. We attended workshops for public speaking, advocacy, speech writing, and campaigning. Not only did we learn about the women leading us today, but were also reminded of past female heroes - the women who changed history, gaining us rights that we often take for granted. On the third night, we all attended a networking reception, which I consider one of the best parts of the program, because were able to engage in conversation with many influential and admirable people in the D.C. area. But the most memorable event was the night on the town, something I hadn't expected to experience. So far we had spent the entire time on campus, and it was amazing to be able to go out and really see the city. On the last day, we made speeches to our friends and family, talking about the rising issues we felt most passionate about. Running Start changed my life, and I know it's done the same for so many other young women. Thank-you Running Start for giving girls like me the confidence to change the world.

My experience with Running Start is one that I will never forget. The knowledge that I obtained will always follow me in my life. Being with 50 bright intelligent girls who have accomplished so much was a great inspiration. The five days I spent at Running Start added more fuel to the fire that I have for politics and being involved in my community. I strongly recommend this program to every girl with or without the same passion that I have. Their eyes will be opened and they will meet so many strong woman leaders. Every person left with an inspiration and ready to lead. After attending several leadership conferences this is far the best. Lastly, I would like to thank Running Start for the work they do.

When I landed in DC, I honestly didn't expect much out of the Running Start conference because I had never heard of the nonprofit and also because I didn't have to pay anything to go there. I've been to many leadership conferences in the past, some of them were very expensive, and my experience at Running Start was by far the best. I was able to shake hands with my Congresswoman, give my business card (provided by Running Start) to some of the top women leaders in DC, and listen and learn from the stories of 51 inspirational girls. Those five days ignited a passion for politics in me, and put me on the path towards the Capitol Building. When I become a political leader I will make sure more girls like me are able to attend Running Start so I can continue the cycle of strong young girls becoming powerful politicians.

This is an exceptional program recommended especially for those girls who have absolutely no idea about politics or anything relating. Being a prime model of the uniformed teenager, I applied for this program without forethought and was accepted. After taking a plane that was provided for and meeting other girls of every platform, the experience began almost immediately. This is a comprehensive program structured for girls ready to take the challenge. The staff are undeniably dedicated and go out of their way to provide every possible amenity. The lectures given by special guests are uplifting and broaden the student's expectations from their government as well as themselves. The president of the program, Susannah, is truly inspirational. Not only did she found the organization from the ground up but she attends it personally alongside the girls whom she generously chooses. After the program has reached its end, the benefit of Susannah's effort to guide the student does not end. Consistent emails and competitions suited to challenge and encourage the students involved in the program are sent for years after the duration of the experience itself. But most importantly, if a student needs anything, any resource, feedback, or counsel-Susannah is always available, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. This was truly a milestone in my life. Thank You Running Start for giving 150 percent.

As a young woman who has always been interested in politics, Running Start was a major eye-opener. It gave the young ladies with me and myself a chance to see first hand the kind of effects women have had in politics, to give us encouragement for the future. I know because of the ideas and lessons many of us took from Running Start, we will use it to our benefit in the future. Running Start and DC is a start for young women all over interested in politics, no matter who they are.

I participated in the Running Start young womens political program 2009. I had an amazing time. Running Start has inspired me!

Running Start is an amazing organization that provides amazing opportunities for young women! I was a participant in their political leadership program in DC, and the experience has truly changed my way of thinking. The organization provided us with amazing speakers and experiences that included subjects not only of political interest, but also relating to humanitarian work, career-building, and networking. As a young woman, I am proud to say that I support Running Start.

Running Start has helped me grow as an individual. I learned more from the 5 days I spent in the retreat than I have my entire life, both about myself and about the people around. I was able to watch as I, along with my fellow participants, become more confident with ourselves. Though we are leaders one way or another, Running Start gave us the extra push we all needed to aim for what we want, regardless of stereotypes and those who make it their business to bring us down. Running Start gave me the opportunity to meet and interact with people whose job involves positive changes using one small act at a time. Running Start makes it possible for us to change the world.

Working with Running Start has taught me so much about being a leader in my community and pushing beyond my limits. There were so many other phenomenal girls during the Young Women's Political Leadership Program who were excited to have such a great oppurtunity without having to pay. Many girls expressed how unique Running Start is in that it offers a summer program for teenagers but doesn't require thousands of dollars to attend. It thus includes girls from a multitude of different locations, backgrounds, and economic levels. Running Start is a fabulous, inspiring organization that I honestly believe changes girls' lives and encourages more female participation in leadership jobs across the United States.

My experience with Running Start was a very positive one to say the least. I participated in the program this summer (2009) and enjoyed every minute of it. The diverse group of girls as well as the helpful staff made my experience an unforgettable one. Moreover, the speakers who presented were outstanding. Not only did heads of non-profits address us, but also Congressmen and people involved in running successful political campaigns. Without a doubt, my experience at Running Start was truly memorable.

From the very first day the staff and the girls treated me with respect and I felt at home with them. It was a wonderful experience and I am so proud of Susannah Shakow for starting such a wonderful organization for women. This program is a wonderful one and although it is mainly for politics, what you learn there is necessary for any field of study and life in general. Thanks Susannah for everything! -Parisa Alaie

RUNNING START helped me learn that I can do anything no matter if it is in the political world or not. It was an influential experience that I will learn from in the years to come. The staff was fantastic within four day we went from being strangers to being a family.

Wow. Words cannot describe the wonderful experience I encountered this past summer at Running Start. From the speakers to the girls, I can truly say Running Start has been and always be a huge part of my life. Until this day, I am still in touch the the diverse bunch that I met. Over the week we shared, they became more than my "friends,"- they became my sisters. The speakers and staff were also an HUGE asset to the program. They provided us with the incredible amount of knowledge that is needed to power politics. ---On a more lighter note, I must say the food and the dorms were perfect!

From the moment I learned about Running Start I knew I would be interested, after meeting the founders and all of the volunteers I knew I would constantly be inspired. Every woman I've met and every young participant I've encountered has helped me the importance of getting women involved in politics at every level. My time with Running Start has given me some of my greatest moments in DC, and I could not ask a better and more diverse group to be a part of.

I can not say enough about Running Start. My daughter attended the program in the summer before her junior year('07). It provided her with the confidence and leadership skills to try things she would have never done before. She was able to run a successful campaign for Young Dems and has gone on to participate in numerous activities through the information and emails that she receives from Running Start. She plans on continuing her relationship with Running Start when she is in college and this alone is a testament to the invaluable experience it affords young women.I know that my daughter plans on writing a review with more specifics details but I did want to encourage the "powers to be" to provide Running Start with whatever it needs to continue The Young Women's Leadership Program. Thank you.

My daughter participated in the innaugural summer training event for high school students. She learned a great deal both from Running Start and the other young women who participated. This organization is providing valuable leadership, guidance and motivation to young women during an important time in their lives.

Running Start has been the best experience that I have ever had in my life. We went from having dinner on a rooftop to getting down and dirty with a room full of women talking about politics. Not only did I get to stay at American University which is my top choice to go to but I got to meet so many great people. Going to Running Start opened so many doors for me and I actually have an internship right now. Running Start was such an awesome experience and I hope that every lucky girl get to experience it.

I participated in the Running Start program this past summer ('08) and it was truly one of the best experiences in my life. I was given so many opportunities and had so many doors opened for me. It was an excellent program where I met so many young women my age with the same dreams and ambitions as my own. I also got the chance to learn from so many accomplished women with incredible stories and was given the opportunity to practice life long skills such as networking.

Running Start has done more than inspire me to consider political office as a career - it has insured that I enthusiastically support young female candidates and has gotten me involved in politics on many levels. I have been lucky enough to find a voice through Running Start and am constantly amazed by the enthusiasm of the Director, volunteers and participants. I am encouraged for our future by what I see at Advisory Board Meetings, fundraisers and programs.

Running Start really opened my eyes to the small amount of women in politics compared to the amount of women in the United States. Originally I was not that interested in politics but after this 4 day program I am defintley considering this career knowing that I can make a difference in the world. Listening to speakers, networking with proffesionals in their political field, and creating our my campaign has influenced the way I look at our governement and what career I might want to pursue. I would recommend this program to anyone not only to people who want to be politicians.

Running Start has challenged me to think and act confidentially. It has motivated and inspired me to voice my opinion. I came to running start full of doubts and insecurities; Running Start has given me the confidence to believe in myself, and alerted me to the few women representatives’ we (the United States) have in our government. It really is a grand opportunity for all young women.

Even though Running Start has only been around for a little over a year, the group has managed to make a huge difference in the lives of young women across the country. With a staff that consists primarily of volunteers, Running Start not only inspires young women to run for office, but also provides them with the tools to do so.