The Hot Springs/Hot Springs Village branch of the American Association of University Women will hold a raffle this year for a chance to win up to a $10,000 credit toward a Tauck Tours vacation or opt for a $5,000 cash prize instead.
The local branch was established in 1923 and primarily focuses on funding scholarships for students at National Park College and those who are continuing their education in Arkansas.
"Since 1995, AAUW has funded more than $250,000 in local and transfer scholarships. The amounts awarded annually have grown by leaps and bounds, from three $250 scholarships in 1995 to 12 $1,500 scholarships totaling $18,000 in 2017," a news release said.
Raffle ickets are $100 and only 275 will be sold. The winning ticket will be drawn following AAUW's annual scholarship luncheon on Nov. 2. Ticket holders will be invited to a special "Pop and Popcorn with Tauck" event after the luncheon, although the winner need not be present to win.
"The American Association of University Women has been a tireless promoter of education and equity for women and girls since its founding in 1881 and is the oldest and largest national organization working for women. There are seven branches in Arkansas, and around 1,000 local branches throughout the United States," the release said.
Its mission is to advance "equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research."
"The organization has a voice in public debates on social issues, sponsors research on women, girls, and education, and provides millions of dollars in scholarships and fellowships," the release said.
Several local sponsors have already contributed to this year's fundraising effort, including American Arts Gallery & Gifts, Cavenaugh Hyundai, Century 21 HSV Realty, Good Spirits, Historic Antiquities, Ike Eisenhauer State Farm Insurance, Tauck Tours, Eyecare Specialties and Tomorrow's Therapy.
Visit https://hshsv-ar.aauw.net/ for more information about the local branch. For more information about the raffle or to purchase a ticket, call Kim Townsan at 860-836-7234 or [email protected].
Society on 09/15/2019