LEWISTON – The Maine Women’s Fund is accepting applications for the 2009-10 Lewiston/Auburn New Girls’ Network, a leadership community that gives women a chance to build their networks, explore social change and unleash their leadership potential.

For the past 20 years, the Maine Women’s Fund has been investing in women and girls and helping women lead in the professional, civic and personal arenas of their lives.

To date, the Maine Women’s Fund has granted $1.5 million to nonprofits throughout the state.

The New Girls’ Network brings women together for a 10-month exploration of philanthropy, activism and feminism through stories, reflections and dialogue. Trained facilitators create learning environments in which participants discuss and discover what it means to be a woman and a leader; how to tap into their passion and potential as activists; and how to define the future they want to create.

Because each woman brings her own set of expectations and values to the circle, each will walk away with unique outcomes.

Some New Girls go on to advocate for a cause, some mentor women who are budding entrepreneurs and some work or volunteer on programs that create change in their communities.

New Girls continue to connect online and at ongoing alumnae networking and learning events, formally and informally. By completing the program, New Girls join a network of more than 250 women from all across Maine who are passionate about creating positive change.

The program fee is $250. A $50 registration fee is required; the balance is payable over the 10 months of the program.

To register, complete the online registration e-mail Kristin at [email protected] or call 774-5513.