Expanding the possibilities

We empower Avalon junior and senior girls to reach their highest potential.

The Catalina Island Women's Forum is committed to providing mentoring, resources and support to girls and young women in the Catalina community. We offer scholarships, college readiness and seminars on healthy relationships.

Catalina Island Mentoring

Voluntary meetings with the Avalon junior and senior girls are held monthly and bring a host of information and activities their way.

Some of the highlights of our curriculum include a self-defense course demonstration, lectures from professional women on a range of challenging occupations from law enforcement to health care, healthy relationship seminars, etiquette lessons, and many social times including mini-golf or a trip to Three Palms Arcade. Our graduating ladies have stated the most beneficial or favorite part of the program is the “reality check” they receive. The mentoring offers support for the transition into adulthood, moving away to college, and preparing to live a whole new life of independence.

Scholarships
The mentoring program helps these girls develop valuable life skills that are sure to make their transition off the Island more pleasant. With the end of school comes the best part — the scholarship awards. The CIWF receives many scholarship applications. The scholarship committee allows for 10 minutes with each applicant for a Q & A session giving the girls the freedom to display their personality and aspirations for their future. All the applicants are commended for their time spent with the Women’s Forum and each young woman receives the priceless experience of sisterhood and fellowship. It is always a very difficult decision as all the applicants have exceptional qualities; however, the scholarship committee singles out the most promising ladies for their well composed application, polished interview skills, and thorough preparation for their move to college.

Thank you to the local business who have directly supported our mentoring program:

The Island Spa Catalina
The Hotel Metropole
Three Palms Arcade
Seaport Bistro
Catalina Island Expeditions Descanso Beach Ocean Sports
Avalon Grille
Santa Catalina Island Resort Services / Descanso Beach Club

The Mentoring Program began in 1996, chaired by Peggie O’Neal and Kathy Moritz. Since 1998 the Women's Forum has offered more than $265,000 in scholarships.