Association & State Priorities Educational Foundation The objectives of EF, the nation's oldest and largest women's foundation, is to raise funds for fellowships and grants to women seeking advanced degrees in the United States and abroad. It awards community action and career development grants, particularly targeting professions where women have been traditionally underrepresented. It also funds and directs nationally acclaimed research on how America's schools treat girls. Legal Advocacy Fund LAF raises money to help challenge discriminatory practices involving sexual harassment, denial of tenure or promotion and aid for women's athletic programs. Funds enable a network of volunteer attorneys and social scientists to offer legal strategy and case research, as well as to support litigation. Public Policy For more than a century, AAUW has influenced legislative debate on critical issues such as education, Social Security, sex discrimination, civil rights, reproductive choice, affirmative action, Title IX, welfare reform, vocational education, pay equity, family and medical leave, and health care reform. Branch Priorities Sister to Sister Sponsored by our branch with help from individuals and local businesses, this one day seminar brings together middle school, high school and college girls from our communities for a day-long conference addressing important issues in their lives. In small dialogues led by trained high school and college facilitators, girls are given an opportunity to articulate their experiences in a safe environment and become empowered to make healthy choices. Tech Trek Our Branch raises funds to send girls from our three Lamorinda middle schools to a week-long science and math summer camp at a local university. Established by AAUW California in 1998 with one camp, there are now six camps attended by AAUW sponsored girls all over California. Scholarships & Awards We recognize outstanding graduates from our three local high schools and St. Mary's College. The committee selects recipients for annual scholarships and awards, and coordinates the April awards program. International Interests The International Federation of University Women connects with AAUW around the world. As the global village shrinks it is important to delve deeper into the cross-cultural relationships and international women's issues that affect us all. Community Outreach Burckhalter School Since 1993 OML has supplied volunteers to this inner-city school located in East Oakland. Our members work as tutors, classroom aides and library staff throughout the school year. In addition, other members help with special events such as our annual ornament project.