Program in a Box Briefing

AAUW Current Topics Briefing #7
August 12, 2008

Introduction
AAUW members frequently request recommendations for programming for their branches. While many kinds of programs are available — reflecting local preference, priorities, capacity, and capability — the task of identifying appropriate programming is very important for branch effectiveness and member satisfaction. In particular, members seek programming ideas that will help us keep our Value Promise.

By joining AAUW, you belong to a community that breaks through educational and economic barriers so that all women have a fair chance.

We keep our promise by focusing every single activity we do, in some way, on Breaking through Barriers. This is how we can build our AAUW brand and increase our membership appeal.

New Tool for Members
With the introduction of a new online resource, Program in a Box, members will be able to go to the Member Center of the website, www.aauw.org, and see a portfolio of program activities for their branches. Emphasis will be placed on mission-based programming that engages the community and provides more strategic focus for monthly branch meetings.

This new tool is actually a collection of programs, each identified as an individual Program in a Box (PIAB). Each PIAB outlines an activity that members could choose for their branch, with the "what, why, and how" to implement that program. Each PIAB has hyperlinks to downloadable resources that provide programming options. Over time, additional resources will be added to some of the posted PIABs to enrich the options and showcase examples of effective branch implementation.

Roll-Out Plan
It is important to understand that the Program in a Box site is evolving; more PIABs will be added on an ongoing basis. The PIAB project was undertaken this summer in response to requests from AAUW states and branches for programming assistance. Rather than wait until a full portfolio of program options could be posted, it was decided that launching with some initial PIABs and building inventory rapidly over the next month — with the focus on posting new and time-sensitive programs first — would be the best way to serve members. After the launch, PIABs will be added as new programs are developed and details of effective local programs are provided to staff. Members are reminded on the Program in a Box opening page to check back frequently for new PIAB postings.

Program in a Box Content
The definition of "programs" eligible for inclusion in PIABs will accommodate the wide diversity of interests, involvement, and preferences of our members. PIABs will be applicable to a wide range of AAUW activities — education, advocacy, communications, membership, fundraising, LAF, etc. — that help us keep our Value Promise.

State/branch leaders and members will be encouraged to provide suggestions for additional PIAB postings. As with all web content, posted programs must be relevant and appropriate; when submitting, please identify how the recommended program/activity helps us break through barriers.

As the Program in a Box site becomes more robust, please encourage members and leaders to use this resource as they plan programming for the year. Recommendations for additional Programs in a Box may be e-mailed to programinabox@aauw.org.

This briefing is the seventh in our AAUW Current Topics Briefing Series issued by Linda Hallman, CAE, Executive Director.