AAIWO was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1989 in the state of Ohio. The first Board members of this new organization were Usha Ahuja, Nilli Sawhney, Nirmala Shekar, Veena Bhupali, Rita Singh, Susan Karimpil, Uma Ganesan, Manju Rastogi, Vandana Marwaha, Mona Alag, Nisha Jain.

Over the years many successful seminars and fundraisers have been held to benefit the members of the organization. Past activities "Stepping Out" covered topics on career and business development, Starting a Business on a Shoe Sring Budget, Volunteering, Fashion shows.

For the first ten years, spectacular and sold out fundraisers were held, raising money for scholarship for displaced home makers and youth experiencing financial stress. 60% of the funds were distributed and the 40% was saved and invested. These accumulated funds are now with Cleveland Foundation. Each year a percentage of the funds are taken and distributed as scholarships in conjunction with the Cleveland Foundation.

The rich heritage of AAIWO is due to the contribution of our many dynamic and talented women. Help Line was also started on the recommendation of a Board Member. Over the years it has helped many women in situations of domestic abuse and financial distress.