AAUW St. Cloud Area Branch: 90 years young and still rocking!

Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead. Ninety years ago, a small group of area women saw a need and formed American Association of University Women (AAUW), St, Cloud Area Branch to answer the call. Ninety years later the needs have evolved, as have the service projects, programming, grants and other aspects of this St. Cloud area organization. Congratulations AAUW, St. Cloud Area Branch on your well deserved Mayor's Rock On Award for 90 years of community service and a Big Thank You for all you do.CMWS would like to shine a light on AAUW (local) past and present; open new vistas and opportunities to connect with others, who like you —our readers, fans and members— aspire to make a difference in the world.

The mission of AAUW is to promote equity and education for women and girls.

Throughout the years, AAUW has sponsored home tours, book sales, golf tournaments, mystery tours, luncheons and many other fund raising activities in order to provide opportunities for others.

Explore how you can connect, collaborate and or become a member of this organization.

Upcoming Events:

From Women of Cumberland Cty

AAUW Annual Golf Tournament and Social: Play Golf, socialize and or sit at the banquet table on July 9th. For more info or to register call Mary Margaret at 320-266-5614

Women's Summit 2012: Today AAUW members see a need to come together with other groups improving the lives of women and girls so we might share goals, resources, ideas and opportunities to collaborate. When? July 24th, 11:30-1:00pm, Central Minnesota Community Foundation. AAUW is providing lunch, so please call if you —belong at this table— are part of an organization meeting the needs of area women and girls. Please call Mary Margaret at 320-266-5614 before July 13th, 2012 for more information and/or to reserve lunch.

Visit AAUW St. Cloud Branch Website: Stay in the know; take part in the action.

A Sampling of Funding and Service Projects:

* A $1,000.00 scholarship to the Active Learning for Vital Aging (ALVA) Leadership Development Program for older adults at the St. Cloud Technical Community College.

* AAUW is committed to a special focus on diversity issues within our St. Cloud community and funding has been provided to a local organization to begin a childcare program for immigrant mothers.

* AAUW is also involved with a local literacy program for immigrants.
* Art scholarships were awarded to twelve local adults and students. 

 Picture left to right: Fran Rowen Hill, Janet Lore and Jan Davis 
presenting a check to Heidi Steadman, Young Artists Exhibition director

* Birthday tubs, books and gently used luggage have been donated to Anna Marie’s Alliance.

* Funding has been provided to District 742 to help cover expenses for volunteer background checks.

* With complete funding from AAUW, a student from St. Cloud State University will attend the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders in Washington DC. * AAUW members donate many hours of their time and talents as volunteers in our schools, the Stearns History Museum, Hands Across the World, and the Paramount Arts District.

AAUW is making a difference in our community! A special thanks to St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis and his Rock on committee for recognizing AAUW, St. Cloud Area Branch efforts with his Rock-On Award.

AAUW also thanks Cindy Lee (shown here hopping on the SCSU Science Express) 
Cindy Lee is creator, producer and director of the AAUW Mystery Tour who submitted the application for the Rock On Award

The Science Express Tour (arranged by Fran Rowen Hill, AAUW Chair of Programming) was one of nine programs area members attended this last year.

There are so many more members to be acknowledged; opportunities to take part in and support; and possibilities for collaborating with AAUW St. Cloud Area Branch.

What action could you take today?

• Call 320-266-5614 for info on the Annual Golf Tournament and or Social or Women Summit
• Like AAUW Facebook and share content
• Visit AAUW Website for events, scheduling and links to resources
• Become a member and add your talents to promote equity in education and opportunity for women and girls.

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Shine on,

Mary Margaret

Dara Westra and Mary Margaret White-Levilain Co-Founders