Programming is promoting the goals of AAUW and providing an opportunity for our members to use their educational skills to make a positive impact in our communities. It is initiating activities on behalf of women and girls that involve all our members - and generate publicity that stimulates member growth.

The Association has introduced a CHOICES program portfolio that builds on Education Foundation's research. The projects are: Tech Check, Woman-to-Woman, Signposts, Sister-to-Sister, and Transitions:

Tech Check...

helps girls become technology competent. Girls are still lagging behind boys in the science, math, and computer curriculums. This program offers an assessment guide for schools to enable them to become aware of this difference and to encourage and assist girls in becoming technologically proficient.

Woman-to-Woman...

is a community dialog on social justice issues. These discussions can aid us in reaching out to other women in our communities to build coalitions. They can help us to work together to bring about desired change on issues we share.

Signposts...

is another guide for schools offering an equity road map. It enables schools to learn to become gender fair and equal.

Sister-to-Sister...

brings young girls together to talk about their generation's challenges. It is usually a one-day sharing that hopefully lets them know their problems are universal and not insurmountable.

Transitions...

is a one-day conference to help working women who are considering a return to school. Co-sponsored by a branch and local college/university, this discussion will provide information and support on financial aid, study skills, and issues related to balancing school, work, and family.(The Naples Branch will offer this program in November.)

The Program Team encourages your branch to choose one or more of these programs to make a difference in your community. The upcoming AAUW in Action will offer suggestions and additional information on these programs.

Or choose one of the programs that have been generated here in Florida: FIG or WomenWISE Alliance. FIG (Financial Independence for Girls) is designed to help young girls (or women) develop a basic understanding of money issues such as credit, budgeting, investing, saving, etc. AAUW has compiled a large packet of materials to enable branches to successfully present this program. Contact FL AAUW President Leslie Henderson ([email protected]) if your branch would like to present FIG.

The WomenWISE Alliance is a non-profit public education network of women's, health, and professional organizations created to educate women about health risks after 50 and to advocate for access to needed screenings, preventive therapies and treatments. For further information contact the Florida Nurses Association 407-896-3261 or ([email protected]). The WomenWISE Alliance coalition is planning a state Women's Health Conference. More information will be forthcoming.

The Program Team encourages all branches to explore, expand, investigate one of the suggested programs and make a real difference in your communities. For additional information about any of the above programs you may contact me at ([email protected]).

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