Community Inter-Action (CIA)

Community Inter-Action was created in 2017, in response to members wanting to do more to promote AAUW’s mission in our community.


Girls Project

The Crystal Lake Area AAUW Branch hosts workshops to assist Bookfriends International with its “Girls Project” to make reusable menstrual pads for schoolgirls in various African countries. The project’s goal is to enable girls to attend school more consistently. If a girl can remain in school all month, she won’t fall behind in her classes. If she stays home for a week per month, she may not be allowed by her family to return. She will have less risk of becoming a victim of sex trafficking if she can remain in school.

Each menstrual hygiene kit consists of:
Two pads — reusable, washable
One pair of underwear
One quart size durable plastic zipper bag
An informational, encouraging brochure
Reusable cloth pouch

Working with Bookfriends from 2017 to October 2023 our Branch accomplished:

  • Completed Pads:  10,123
  • Donated panties:  3,501
  • Donated quart size baggies:  2,464
  • Sewn pouches:  1,278

Volunteers invited to assist with cutting fabric, sewing pads and pouches.  There is work for all skill levels!

Our next workshop:
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
9 AM -12 PM

Location:
Bethany Lutheran Church
76 W. Crystal Lake Ave.
Crystal Lake, IL

Girls Project Menstrual Kit

Girls Project Menstrual Kit

 

Bookfriends International – a “CIA” partner

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reel Life Movies

Movie screening and discussion at the Crystal Lake Public Library, co-sponsored by our branch. Movies are selected because of their relevant subjects for and about women in today’s society. Dates and titles announced in the library newsletter and on this webpage.

Next “Reel Life” screening: March 2025, Movie TBD

Registration is required and handled by the Crystal Lake Public Library.

Crystal Lake Public Library location and phone:
126 Paddock Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
815.459.1687

 

Giving Tree at Crystal Lake Public Library

Our branch sponsors a Giving Tree each year to benefit Home of the Sparrow, a nonprofit organization serving homeless women and children in McHenry County, at the Crystal Lake Public Library. Branch members provide and decorate the tree and transport donated gifts to Home of the Sparrow through December.

The 2024 tree is up! Stop by and take a look before all the tags are gone!

Branch members set up the 2024 Giving Tree

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Christmas Tree Lane in Depot Park

Each year Downtown Crystal Lake and the City of Crystal Lake provides lights and decorations on the Gazebo and trees in Depot Park. Beginning in 2019, the city wanted to make the park even more festive, and with the help of community organizations and businesses Christmas Tree Lane was born. Our branch has participated from the beginning!

Visit Christmas Tree Lane at Depot Park between November 29th and December 31st. Look for our tree!

2023 “Be A Star – Join AAUW” Tree