American Association of University Women Special Projects Fund

The mission of AAUW is to enhance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. In 1998, the first Tech Trek camp was held at Stanford, where 151 girls from 134 branches spent a week in the program. Due to the program's initial success, Tech Trek has now become a national program. Program stats: • 96% of Tech Trek alumnae go to college • 82% of girls choose to take more science classes in high school

Our cornerstone mission is TECH TREK. This is a weeklong academic, residential camp at a university featuring hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Professional women in STEM-related careers present and work with our Coachella Valley junior high school girls throughout the week. A hands-on virtual Tech Trek week is also offered for those who cannot attend in-person camp sessions. Every junior high school girl attending a Tech Trek STEM Camp is sponsored and is nominated for the program by her middle school science or math teacher. Local AAUW branch coordinators give schools and teachers guidelines for nominating campers. Girls and their parents complete an application and write a short essay. Local AAUW members interview prospective campers and then select the number of campers based on the amount of sponsorship money raised - camp costs are currently estimated to be $1,150 per girl. Virtual camp costs are $600 per girl. Tech Trek STEM Campers from the Coachella Valley are funded by donations from AAUW Coachella Valley members, individuals, and organizations who support AAUW's Mission and STEM educational opportunities for girls.

Testimonials

"I had my intelligence being underestimated because I am a woman. So I have been looking for a place that accepts me and for people who have been through what I have been through. And now that I have found it, I finally feel like I belong."

" I heard that this camp was "life-changing" but I underestimated how true these words actually were. I NEVER would have thought that 6 days could alter my life, but here I am. I am a changed person heading in a direction that will make for an amazing journey. I had always known that STEM was my passion, but now I have the tools and resources to get where I always wanted to be."

" I learned many things at this camp, but the thing that I improved most on was gaining confidence. When I first attended this camp I was really shy and nervous, but by the end, I came out of my comfort zone."

" In only a week I've learned and grown more than I thought possible."