GEM: Gaining Educational Momentum – Breaking Barriers. Changing Lives.

Life doesn’t always follow a straight path. Some women pause their education to care for family, others face unexpected obstacles, and many need a second chance to pursue their dreams. That’s where GEM comes in.

GEM—Gaining Educational Momentum—exists for one powerful purpose: to remove the financial barriers that keep women from completing their college education. We believe that every woman deserves the chance to finish what she started, and no one should have to choose between survival and success.

Founded in 2002 by visionary members of AAUW Asheville, GEM started small but thought big. The first scholarship? A single $250 gift to help one woman attend UNC Asheville. Over the last 20 years, GEM donors have remained steadfast—even through unprecedented challenges of COVID19 and Hurricane Helene. And our impact has been transformative: $400,000 in scholarships awarded to more than 300 local women and an endowment of over $500,000 that will continue to provide scholarships well into the future.

This consistent support means we can keep our promise: women who want to complete their education will have the financial support they need to succeed.

How You Can Help Women Reach Their Goals

GEM is fueled entirely by the generosity of individual donors like you. We welcome gifts in many forms:

• Cash donations
• Stock transfers
• Insurance policies and other planned gifts
• Legacy gifts through the Beatrice Wells Foundations

The Power of Our Community – Join Us

Whether you’re an AAUW Asheville member or simply someone who believes in women’s education, we welcome you to support GEM. Contributions are accepted throughout the year. Every gift—no matter the size—breaks down barriers and opens doors.

Checks maybe mailed to: AAUW/GEM, 4B Long Shoals Road, Arden, NC 28704