About us
Supporting women through leadership, community, and action.
Mission, Vision & Values
We help women build leadership confidence and practical civic power—so they can lead with clarity, courage, and results.
What is The Jean Collective?
The Jean Collective (TJC) is a leadership organization supporting women to organize, train, and take action in their communities and public life.
What is our Mission?
The mission of The Jean Collective (TJC) is to inspire and support women to lead.
What is our Vision?
The Jean Collective (TJC) envisions a future where women are empowered to lead with compassion, courage, and authenticity.
Why “The Jean Collective”?
A message from Helen Cole
Jean transformed my world. And that, more than anything, is why this organization bears her name. The Jean Collective is my way of carrying forward what Jean taught me. I want other women to experience what I experienced—to have someone believe in them, encourage them, challenge them, and help them discover what they are capable of.
Today, when someone tells me that I encouraged her to step forward, take a risk, find her voice or believe in herself, I think of Jean. Because that is exactly what she did for me. I sometimes receive letters describing the difference I have made in someone’s life, and I still find it difficult to recognize that the woman they are describing is me! But I know something they may not know.
Jean is at the heart of it.
She is at the heart of The Jean Collective. She is at the heart of the work I do. And she is at the heart of whatever difference I have been fortunate enough to make. Jean transformed my world. Through The Jean Collective, I hope we can transform the world for other women—one woman believing in another at a time. That is Jean’s legacy, and that is why we are The Jean Collective.
Statement from Helen (Founder)
Photo Credit to Anita Watkins
“Leadership is not about position or title. It’s about helping others discover the confidence and courage to make a difference.”
Leadership Circle
Our organizational breakdown. Each area of expertise works together to form a strong team that brings this organization to life. Click on a circle to see who makes the team!
Are you looking to support these ongoing efforts?
We run on donations, they help us support others in growth, empowerment, and opportunity!
Community in Action
Program, event, and conference photos, visual proof of TJC’s work in action.
Explore More
Suggested next steps, and more to discover!
Programs & Workshops
See what we offer and how we develop leadership skills through structured learning and mentorship.
Stories & News
Explore events, community partnerships, and the outcomes of leadership development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Jean Collective affiliated with a political party?
No. The Jean Collective is nonpartisan. We encourage informed participation, respectful dialogue and women’s leadership across political perspectives.
Is The Jean Collective focused only on women in politics?
Our roots include encouraging women to seek public office, but our work embraces leadership in its many forms, such as communities, workplaces, volunteer organizations and everyday life.
Who is The Jean Collective for?
We welcome women and gender-diverse people at all stages of life, whether they are exploring leadership for the first time or bringing years of experience. You don’t need a title or a particular career background to belong.
Is The Jean Collective a registered charity?
No. The Jean Collective is not a registered charity and cannot issue charitable tax receipts. We are a social enterprise run by volunteers. Revenue from tickets, sponsorships and other activities is reinvested in our work. No salaries are paid.
How is The Jean Collective funded and operated?
The Jean Collective is a volunteer-led social enterprise. Revenue from tickets, sponsorships and other activities is reinvested in our work. No salaries are paid.
Contact Us
Send us a note, and we’ll route you to the right program.