AAUW, originally the
Association of Collegiate Alumnae, was founded in 1881 to open
the doors of education to women and to unite alumnae of
different educational institutions for “practical education
work". It is the oldest and largest national organization
working for equity and education.
At the national level, the
Association provides legislative influence and guidance to
capitol hill and a framework to support state and local
activities. Fellowships and grants to promote educational
opportunities for women are available though the AAUW
Educational Foundation. Funds for women fighting discrimination
in higher education are available though the AAUW Legal Advocacy
Fund.
The
Educational Foundation is the "heart of AAUW." Moneys raised by
branches support fellowships for advanced study and research
grants. The Educational Foundation awards over $2.5 million each
year to women for graduate education, community projects and
international academic exchange.
Read about the latest research,
released April 2007,
Behind the
Pay Gap
New research shows that just one year out of college,
women working full time already earn less than their male
colleagues, even when they work in the same field. Ten years
after graduation, the pay gap widens.
The Legal Advocacy Fund provides funds to women who are in
higher education and need to legally contest discrimination and
harassment. Such litigation is very costly. Not only does AAUW
assist these women by providing them with funds, but we provide
them moral support, which is often sorely lacking in today's
society.
Critical issues—educational equity, health care, civil
rights, workplace equity, reproductive choice, and welfare
reform—are at stake each time Americans go to the ballot box.
AAUW’s Voter Education Campaign encourages women voters to get
involved in the political process and shows the impact
congressional action has on their lives and the lives of the
people they love.
AAUW research
draws national attention to issues of gender equity and
education; influences policy-makers as well as educators,
parents, and students; and, most importantly, serves as a
catalyst for action. Three series of studies have been
published: Higher Education Series; Girls and Education Series;
and School and Community Action Series.
AAUW California was formed in 1920 and is California’s most
active and diverse organization for women offering action for
equity, personal and professional growth, community leadership,
and friendship. At the state level, AAUW provides legislative
support and guidance to state lawmaking bodies.
AAUW has a grassroots network of 1,600 branches nationwide.
Our local branches offer an individual flavor, as each branch is
unique, tailored by the interests and concerns of its members.
Local branches provide immediate implementation of AAUW's goals
of equity for women, education and self-development over the
life span and positive societal change by training women to be
leaders, offering educational experiences and promoting projects
which aid the local community. Friendships formed in AAUW tend
to be life-long, based on common values, education, and working
towards common goals.
AAUW Visalia-Sequoia Branch was organized in 1926 and
incorporated in 1950. (Branch history) With approximately 200 members, our branch
events and general meetings focus on current educational issues,
women's health, women's history, local, state, and international
issues. We have a wide variety of interest groups that meet
monthly or more frequently. By becoming involved with our
branch, you can mix fun with purpose, while advancing the
mission of our organization.
Membership is open to women
and men who hold an associate or equivalent, or baccalaureate
degrees from accredited universities or colleges. Those who are
working toward a baccalaureate degree may become
student affiliates. For more information on becoming a member of
the AAUW Visalia-Sequoia Branch, visit our Membership page or
write to us at AAUW Visalia-Sequoia Branch, P.O. Box 6, Visalia,
CA 93279.
AAUW advances equity for
women and girls through advocacy, education and research.
AAUW will be a powerful advocate and visible leader in equity
and education through research, philanthropy, and measurable
change in critical areas impacting the lives of women and girls.
