Ruth Gallo, age 17, of Utica, N.Y., for her question:

HOW LARGE IS THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS?

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that promotes informed, active participation in government. There about 2,000 local groups in the United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The League of Women Voters was organized in the 1920s as an outgrowth of the women's suffrage movement in the U.S.

Members of the league believe that political education helps create a sense of responsibility in Americans for democratic government. The members encourage all eligible Americans to register and vote. The local groups provide nonpartisan information on all candidates and issues before elections. The groups do not endorse candidates or political parties.

Local and state leagues have worked for changes in city charters and state constitutions, court reforms and improved state and local services in education, health and welfare.