AAUW seeks to encourage young women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).  The Lewis County Branch supports this goal by giving scholarships to middle and high school programs in the local area, as well as hosting “Expanding Your Horizons”, a half-day conference for middle school girls that is held each October at Centralia College.

We provide financial support to the annual STEM Camp held at W.F. West High School in Chehalis each summer, and Washington State AAUW’s Tech Trek summer camp.

In some past years, when a Lewis County girl is selected, we have supported GeoGirls, a week-long camp sponsored by Mt. St. Helens Institute for girls graduating from 7th and 8th grade. GeoGirls explore the volcano in their backyard, the hazards volcanoes pose to human populations, and the technology scientists use to monitor and learn about them.  High school mentors who have graduated from grades 10-12, and female middle school science teachers may also apply to attend.

The camp is free to the girls because of funding provided by organizations like AAUW. When a girl from Lewis County is selected to attend, AAUW contributes to cover the cost.