AUSTIN, Texas — Women earn about $10,000 less a year than men do, according to a program that focuses on the needs of women in Central Texas, and there’s going to be a big event looking raise awareness about issues like this.
Even in 2020, there's still a gender pay gap and other needs aren't being met for women. That's why the Austin Community Women's Fund is focused on closing that opportunity gap and it's holding its annual Key Holder event on Jan. 30.
This event focuses on celebrating women, while also raising awareness and funds to help women and children in the community achieve economic security.
“The statistics here in Central Texas are actually not what a lot of people would think,” said Marjorie Clifton with Austin Community Foundation’s Women's Fund. “So three out of four jobs in Central Texas don't pay a living wage for a single mom with two kids. About 45% of students are living in poverty in their families.”
To address issues for the first time, the group’s even getting youth involved. Local middle and high school students at Sadler Means Young Women's Leadership Academy and The Ann Richards School created projects to tackle some of the concerns.
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“Students were working on projects like stem education for students who are living in homeless shelters, advocating for young women to get more involved in debates so their voices can be heard,” said Clifton. “So, amazing, amazing projects.”
Women's Fund will be giving away five $1,000 Raise Your Voice Awards to students with the best projects to help the community.
Mayor Steve Adler is expected to attend the event. Ziauddin Yousafzai, a women’s education activist will be the main speaker. He is the father of Malala Yousafzai, the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
There are more than 1,200 people expected to attend this year's event and if you want to support the cause, tickets are still available. The event takes place Thursday night at the Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin.
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