GRAND RAPIDS—The Grand Rapids branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will host a presentation on scam awareness during its meeting Monday, Sept. 21, at the United Methodist Church.
William Saw, an investigator with the Grand Rapids Police Department, will discuss the work of the Itasca County SAFE Team and provide information on recognizing and preventing common scams and fraud schemes. Topics will include romance scams, grandparent scams, banking fraud, cryptocurrency-related scams and ways to protect personal finances and other assets.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans reported losing $15.9 billion to scams last year. Organizers noted the actual number is likely higher because many victims do not report incidents.
Saw has served as a licensed police officer with the Grand Rapids Police Department since 2010 and is currently assigned to the department’s Investigations Unit. During his career, he has investigated a variety of scams, fraud and financial exploitation cases.
The meeting begins with registration and a social hour at 5 p.m., followed by dinner from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. The business meeting and presentation begin at 6:30 p.m. The program is open to the public.
AAUW’s mission is to advance equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. The local branch supports several scholarship programs, including a scholarship for a second-year student at Minnesota North College, three scholarships through the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation for women age 25 and older pursuing additional education, and the Karen Lonson Memorial Scholarship for a woman pursuing a business-related degree.
The branch also offers special interest groups, including a weekly walking group and a book club, and plans to hold a scholarship fundraising book sale during its October meeting.
Membership is open to individuals who hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university. For membership information, contact Dianne Johnson at diannejohnson1234@gmail.com or 218-259-1875.