About Soroptimist International
SoroptiVoiceBlog
Welcome to the SoroptiVoice Blog! Every Friday, a different Soroptimist from around the world will be writing about their programme work or experiences. SI will then start a discussion on Facebook around the topic. Check back every Friday (we’ll tweet to remind you) to read about SI work and experiences all over the world and join us as we discuss the issues.
Our History
The name Soroptimist was coined from the Latin soror meaning sister, and optima meaning best. Soroptimist is perhaps best interpreted as 'the best for women'. From the founding of the first Soroptimist club in Oakland, California, in 1921, through to the present day where over 3000 clubs are flourishing throughout the world, Soroptimists have continued to strive to achieve 'the best for women' in every sphere of their lives. Read more ...
Soroptimist International at the United Nations
Soroptimist International is active at all the major UN centres around the world. We hold General Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council, (ECOSOC), official relations with several agencies and technical bodies, and a network of permanent SI representatives at all of the major UN centres.
Soroptimist Project Matching
Soroptimist Project Matching is a network where assistance for Soroptimist club projects can be offered or requested. The objective of this collaboration between Soroptimist International of the Americas and Soroptimist International of Europe is to match resources between clubs – those that need assistance with a local project and those able to assist. This project enables Soroptimist clubs to work together to address the needs of women and girls in countries far away from their own. It encourages clubs to support the amazing and sustainable work of other Soroptimist clubs around the world. The collaboration broadens the spectrum of clubs that need assistance and clubs that offer support and hence will have a larger impact on Soroptimist work to help women and girls worldwide.
Quadrenniel Projects
Soroptimist International members undertake project work at Club, Region, Federation and International level. Projects are initiated in areas where Soroptimist volunteers are available for assistance and monitoring. A 'Friendship Link' system encourages joint projects between clubs all over the world.
President's December 10 Appeal - Birthing in the Pacific
Every year, on Human Rights Day (December 10) the President of Soroptimist International invites all Soroptimists to join her in supporting a Soroptimist project under our theme of 'Educate to Lead'. International President Alice Wells has just announced her 2012 Appeal - Birthing in the Pacific
Soroptimist 2009-2010 Video Annual Report
When clubs participate in Soroptimist programs and/or give money to ensure the programs remain strong, they become part of an international effort to improve the lives of women and girls. This video details the impact of those efforts and illustrates the power of women helping women.
Soroptimist International (International Headquarters)
Soroptimist International Great Britain & Ireland (Federation)
Soroptimist International of Europe (Federation)
Soroptimist International South West Pacific (Federation)
Soroptimist International of the Americas (Federation)
Soroptimist International - Western Canada Region (Canada)
Soroptimist International - Eastern Canada Region (Canada)
12th Annual