Mission Statement : The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan, political organization, encourages the informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. 

The League of Women Voters has worked since its founding in 1920 to improve government and impact public policies through citizen education and advocacy. The League is a grassroots organization, working at the local, state, and national levels. There are Leagues in all 50 states with over 800 local Leagues. The League of Women Voters is strictly nonpartisan; it neither supports nor opposes candidates for office at any level of government. At the same time, it works to influence policy through advocacy on those governmental issues selected by its members and on which a position has been reached through study and member agreement. Organized in 1921, the League of Women Voters of Illinois was one of the first state Leagues. There are about 4,000 members including about 70 members of the LWV McDonough County.

The League of Women Voters of McDonough County began as the League of Women Voters of Macomb in 1965. The League has been very active in the community, especially in voter service. We have published Voter's Guides in our local papers, even in the early years when we had to pay for the space (at commercial rates!) ourselves. Over the years, as we have become a respected, "known" entity, we began and continue to receive excellent support from our local newspapers and radio stations. We have marched in many parades, held informational meetings on many issues, and are a visible, well-regarded local resource.

Our League worked for, and is credited with beginning, a health department for our county. We worked on a successful mental health referendum drive. We disseminated information on a controversial lake building project. We initiated city meetings and a petition drive culminating in the adoption of a model curbside recycling program in Macomb. We worked to increase public transportation and to establish a rental inspection program. We participate in Constitution Day activities, mock elections, and registration activities at local elementary and high schools as well as Western Illinois University.

We have held countless Candidates Meetings, voter registration drives, tours of public facilities, and meetings with elected and appointed officials. Over the last forty-two years the League of Women Voters of McDonough County has developed into a positive and lasting force in our region.