The mission of The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is to advance gender equality for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.
AAUW was founded in 1881 to promote education and equity for women. Membership is open to men and women who hold a two year degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
Our Branch
Our branch celebrated its 75th anniversary in March 2022.
In 1923 local college and university women sought to provide social contact for teachers within the community. As a result, the Grants Pass College Club was created. As the years passed and membership grew, campaigning to affiliate with AAUW began. The Grants Pass Branch was chartered with AAUW in 1946. In 2005 the Grants Pass Branch established the Grants Pass University Women Charitable Fund (GPUWCF). This nonprofit 501(c)(3) status provides people with the opportunity to make tax deductible donations to support our mission related activities.
Today the Grants Pass Branch has over 85 members who are involved in promoting programs that empower women and girls and encourage success.
Our monthly meetings highlight a variety of speakers who focus on current issues. Members have opportunities to meet other professionals, cultivate personal potential, and develop lasting friendships. We offer a wide range of activities which enhance friendship, learning, and advocacy. Our involvement includes local, state, and national activism.
Our vibrant interest groups give members a chance to meet regularly and to share ideas, interests and hobbies. We are committed to community involvement and are active participants in many local programs.
Girls Rock!
Girls Rock! provides a fun-filled event for girls ages 9-13, who with their parents participate in activities that encourage discussions about issues unique to this age group. The event is sponsored by AAUW Grants Pass Branch, Soroptimist International of River Valley, and Zonta Club of Grants Pass. Girls Rock! took place at Grants Pass High School on February 24, 2024. Click HERE for details.
Funding the Future and the Kitchen Tour
The Kitchen Tour, which started in 2005, was our sole fundraiser. In fourteen years this annual fall tour of local kitchens raised over $145,000 for local and national scholarships. Although we were unable to hold the event in 2020 and 2021 our branch continued to fund raise for scholarships in other ways. New Funding the Future activities will take place in the coming years.
The American Association of University Women
The mission of AAUW is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. It is a nationwide network of more than 170,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 800 college/university institution partners.
Since 1891 AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic, and political. Our commitment to our mission is reflected in all aspects of our work.
AAUW has one of the largest scholarship programs for women in the world, having awarded, since inception, over $135 million to over 13,000 women and nonprofit organizations around the world. The recipients pursue academic work and lead innovative community projects to empower women and girls.
AAUW of Oregon
AAUW of Oregon promotes advocacy, takes action to empower women and girls, and connects National AAUW with branch members. It has over 900 members across the state with 22 branches and 13 college/university institution partners.
Oregon Value Promise: By joining AAUW, you belong to a community that breaks through educational and economic barriers so that all women have a fair chance.
Oregon Vision Statement: AAUW empowers all women and girls to reach their highest potential.
Diversity Statement
In principle and in practice, AAUW values and seeks an inclusive membership, workforce, leadership team and board of directors. There shall be no barriers to full participation in this organization on the basis of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, geographical location, national origin, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status.