Our Community Outreach group was established to initiate and participate in activities that support the AAUW mission in the lake community and surrounding areas – specifically, Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania Counties.  We strive to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research.

Our group connects SMAAUW members with meaningful outreach opportunities. We understand that while many of us are eager to get involved, family and other commitments can make it challenging to dive in completely.  So our chapter offers flexible ways for members to contribute to events and projects that fit both their interests and their schedules—whether it’s a one-time effort or providing ongoing support.

A sampling of our community service activites includes the following:

Annual Book Project – Each year we select a book keeping with our mission and provide copies to elementary school libraries in Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania schools, as well as to public libraries in the three counties. Copies of the book are donated to the project by members, with their purchases sometimes supplemented by a mini-grant from AAUW Virginia.

After-school Empowerment for Girls – When invited, we participate in after-school girl empowerment group meetings.  Recent SMAAUW members highlighted their career expertise and also read a book to the girls in this program.

Summer Science Camp Scholarships – We provide scholarships for summer activities at the Science Museum of Western Virginia in Roanoke.  We typically award four scholarships each year which cover camp fees.  We also provide a gas card to each recipient’s family to help with transportation expenses.

Participation in the Smith Mountain Lake Walk to End Poverty – Community Outreach, with help from members who volunteer, field a team and raise monies for this annual SML fundraiser.  The 5k and 10k walk or run event is organized by Lake Christian Ministries (LCM). Proceeds from fundraising efforts support LCM’s services to assist our local neighbors struggling with poverty and food insufficiency.

Donations to organizations in need – Community Outreach selects organizations in need for periodic collections of requested items.  The generosity shown by our members is always inspiring.

Assistance as requested – we have been asked at times to assist with activities for organizations such as the Brownie and Girl Scouts troops in Bedford and Franklin Counties.  We have also provided assistance to high school students who would like guidance on completing college applications.

Always looking for new and unique opportunities – if you or anyone you know has recommendations for Community Outreach, please let us know.   Topics that we have been exploring include the following:

• • Career speakers and or local business tours to explore careers
  • Providing books / readers for very young children
  • Assistance with adult literacy projects

For additional information or ideas, please contact Ann Tavino at 703-727-1467