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Information from soroptimist.org/whoweare/faq.html
What is Soroptimist?
Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.
What does the word “Soroptimist” mean?
Loosely translated from Latin, Soroptimist is a coined term meaning “best for women.”
When was Soroptimist formed?
The first Soroptimist club was formed in 1921 by a group of 80 women in Oakland, Alameda County, California, USA.
How can women join Soroptimist?
Women who are interested in joining a Soroptimist club should visit the Join and Get Involved section and fill out theIntroduction Form. For more information, contact Soroptimist headquarters at siahq@soroptimist.org.
Why does Soroptimist focus on women and girls?
Soroptimist was formed because in 1921 women who were interested in volunteering in their communities were not permitted to join male service organizations. Since that time, the organization has worked to help women improve their standing in the world. Despite tremendous strides, women still do not enjoy equal economic or social status with their male counterparts. As an organization of and for women, Soroptimist feels uniquely qualified to tackle the challenges facing today’s women and girls.
What programs does Soroptimist offer?
Soroptimist members belong to local clubs. Clubs participate in the Dream Programs of Soroptimist, Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women and Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls to give career support for high school girls. This gives the girls the tools they need to achieve their educational career goals, empowering them to break the cycles of violence, poverty and abuse. The Dream Programs of Soroptimist ensure women and girls have access to the education and training they need to reach their full potential and live their dreams. Soroptimist is committed to investing in programs that have a sustainable, measurable change for women and girls.
Soroptimist also sponsors LiveYourDream.org, an online community empowering volunteer action and activism. The self-motivated network is made up of people who wish to support women and girls in their quest to lead better lives, while gaining inspiration in their own lives. Members of the free online community work on topics such as women’s economic empowerment, ending violence against women, human trafficking, and more. They also have access to inspirational articles, tips, and blogs that can help them live their own personal dreams.
How are Soroptimist programs funded?
Soroptimist programs are funded by investment income, member dues, and contributions from clubs and members. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Soroptimist also depends on outside contributions from people who support the Soroptimist mission.
How can I contribute to Soroptimist?
We hope you’ll support our local Clovis club at siclovis@soroptimist.net. Alternately, you can make a contribution that will help women and girls improve their lives by making a donation online or downloading and mailing a contribution form. Charitable gifts can be sent here to our PO Box, or to: Soroptimist International of the Americas, 1709 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-6103. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by United States law. Support for Soroptimist’s programs also comes from corporate gifts and partnerships.
How can women apply for a Live Your Dream Award?
Live Your Dream Awards applications are available from local participating Soroptimist clubs, such as SI of Clovis. Click here to access application information.
Does Soroptimist International of the Americas hold a convention?
Soroptimist holds its convention every two years. Contact siahq@soroptimist.org for more information.
Does Soroptimist have an archives?
Soroptimist is an active voice for women around the world. The Soroptimist Archives, housed at Soroptimist headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is open to all researchers. Individuals interested in receiving information from the archives are requested to email the archivist, Lisa Mangiafico, atlisa@soroptimist.org with a description of their research needs and a deadline to receive their information. Individuals interested in visiting the archives are requested to make an appointment to ensure adequate staffing during the proposed research visit by emailing the archivist. You may also contact the archivist by phone at 215-893-9000 ext 107.
What is the relationship between Soroptimist International of the Americas and Soroptimist International?
Soroptimist International of the Americas, headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, USA, is one of four federations comprisingSoroptimist International (SI), which is headquartered in Cambridge, England. The other federations affiliated with SI are: Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland, headquartered in Cheshire, England; Soroptimist International of Europe, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland; and Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific, headquartered in Sydney, Australia, and the newest in Africa!
How many members are in Soroptimist?
Soroptimist International has almost 95,000 members. Soroptimist International of the Americas has about 30,000 members.
How many countries make up Soroptimist?
Soroptimist International members reside in over 120 countries and territories throughout the world. Soroptimist International of the Americas’ clubs are located in 21 countries and territories: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, United States and Venezuela.
What is Soroptimist’s relationship with the United Nations?
Soroptimist International has consultative status with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which oversees U.N. activities and policies promoting human rights. Representatives from Soroptimist International can request agenda items, submit written statements for circulation to all members of the council, make oral statements at meetings, and contribute to other U.N. gatherings and seminars. Soroptimist representatives are volunteers and work in one of the four U.N. centers in New York City, Paris, Vienna or Geneva. It is in this forum that Soroptimist representatives can advocate for the Soroptimist mission of improving the lives of women and girls.