What We Do

The Coalition of Advocates for Equal Access for Girls started in 1992 when a group of concerned citizens formed a statewide advocacy organization. In 1993, the Coalition sponsored and helped pass the Equal Access for Girls law in the Oregon Legislature.

As a result, Oregon is the only state in the nation with a law that requires state agencies serving children under 18 to ensure that all girls have equal access to appropriate gender-specific services.

The Coalition advocates for and educates others about all girls and young women 9-19 years of age, especially those who are at risk. The Coalition of Advocates for Equal Access for Girls is committed to the belief that girl's issues need a voice.  The ultimate goal of our advocacy is to have state and local agencies respond to the needs of girls at-risk and for social change in the conditions (abuse, oppression and violence) in which many young women live, so they have the opportunity to fulfill the promise of their unique strengths and abilities.

Advocacy:  The Coalition continues to monitor state agencies for compliance with the Equal Access law.  We maintain advisory seats in several capacities in state and local agencies to make sure girls statewide are getting access to appropriate services.  

Download a copy of:  Ten Ways You Can Advocate for Girls

To find out more about this year's legistlative priorities and the results of our advocacy, download a copy of our 2009 Legislative Advocacy Priorities.

Education:  The Coalition

• works to identify the unmet needs of girls throughout Oregon's communities.

• holds regional meeting to gain a statewide perspective on girls.

• produces a quarterly newsletter and involves young women in the production process.

• serves as an information resource for member and community programs.

Outreach:  The key to helping young women is to create a true community of support.  The Coalition builds statewide partnerships with organizations who can create local networks to help every girl in every community.  We also help young women use their own voices to create social change.