AAUW to host annual Tech Trek brunch
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Porterville Branch will be celebrating Women’s History at its annual Tech Trek brunch on Saturday, March 10, at the Porterville Women’s Club, 265 N. E St., from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The brunch includes lasagna, salad, fruit, bread and dessert. The Porterville Community Strings will also perform.
Since 1998, the group has sent 74 girls from the Porterville community to a week long STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) camp at CSU Fresno. Girls returning from the camp are excited about their experiences, not only about the knowledge they received and a broader understanding of possible future occupations, but they have also gained greater confidence in themselves as young women.
“They all describe it as a life-changing experience,” said Barbara Larsen, Tech Trek coordinator and AAUW Porterville branch treasurer. “When they come back from camp they are visibly more confident, unafraid to speak in front of a group, and unafraid to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles.”
Larsen said last year between 80 and 100 people attended the fundraising event, and they are hoping for at least that many or more this year.
AAWU Porterville branch usually raises enough money at the event to send around five middle school girls from the area to the camp each year, but would be glad to send more if they raise enough money this year. The cost to send each student to the camp is $900.
Previous Tech Trek brunches were held at the First Congregational Church in Porterville, and Larsen hopes the change to the Porterville Women’s Club will encourage a larger turnout.
“It’s a large and really attractive venue,” said Larsen.
AAWU asks local teachers to nominate girls who have an untapped potential in math and science who might not otherwise have a chance to go to a camp like this. Larsen meets with each nominee personally, explains the program, and invites the girls to apply.
The application process consists of an informational form and an essay, then an interview by a three-member panel made up of local AAUW members.
Larsen feels the personal approach of the application process gives her a valuable opportunity to reach out to young girls in the community.
“By going out and talking to the girls that have been nominated to apply, I get a chance to plug education. I get a chance to tell them that even if they don’t get selected to go to Tech Trek, make sure you go to college and get your education,” said Larsen.
This is the third year of the brunch fundraiser. Past AAUW fundraising events for the Tech Trek have included an Oscar-themed movie night and photographs with Santa Claus.
Tickets for adults are $20 and students $10. To purchase a ticket or make a contribution, make checks payable to PUWSF and mail it to P.O. Box 1001, Porterville, CA 93258. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used for Tech Trek Scholarships for girls in the Porterville area.