Where she’s from
Janet is from Arnold, Missouri – a suburb of St. Louis.
About her family.
Janet and Jim Milkovich have been married 40 years. They have two sons, two daughters-in-law and three perfect grandchildren ages two, five and 18 months.
Why she joined the League
Janet has over 10 years’ experience in government relations for two nonprofits in Chicago. Through her work as a legislative advocate with Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic and as development officer for Breakthrough Urban Ministries, she had regular contact with state and federal legislators in Washington, D.C. and Illinois. She even shared office space in Dupont Circle and enjoyed every minute spent on the Hill. On her return to the Kansas City area in 2017, Janet saw the League as an effective way to continue her efforts to advocate for change and to improve the lives of underserved individuals.
What she thinks the League does well
The DEI Initiative and public education on important social and political issues are, to Janet, the League’s greatest strengths. She appreciates League position statements which guide advocacy on issues and enable the organization to offer a unified, consistent approach on public policy.
Where she would like to see the League focus in the future
Janet believes that our state and local elected officials have the greatest impact on our day-to-day lives. She would like to see more collaboration among the nine Kansas leagues, as we follow Kansas legislation and hold our senators and representatives accountable.
What she does to strengthen our democracy
Janet has worked in many local and state political campaigns. She writes letters to the editor, puts signs in her yard, hosts candidate events at her home, and encourages her neighbors and friends to attend and testify on issues. She is the community relations person for her HOA.
Fun Fact
Janet attended Circus School in Georgia. There she learned to climb up the rope ladders, fall safely into the nets, and fly on a trapeze. For her efforts she was recognized as the “Circus Superstar of the Week”.
How she’s coping with the pandemic
Working as the Vice President of LWVJo, following the OP City Council and participating in St. James’ Methodist Church/Church of the Resurrection training on racism are just a few ways Janet has filled her days during this time of the pandemic.