About Soroptimists

Soroptimist is coined from the Latin "soror" meaning sister, and "optima" meaning best, and is interpreted as "the best for women". Soroptimists are at their best helping others to be the best. Soroptimist International is a worldwide organization of business and professional women who unite to make a difference for women. Working within their communities and through international projects, Soroptimists enhance the education, health, human rights and status of all women. Soroptimist International incorporates four federations, of which Soroptimist International of the Americas is the largest with almost 50,000 members in 20 countries and territories. The Western Canada Region, which is comprised of 450 members in 18 clubs, covers the geographical area of British Columbia to Manitoba.

A Soroptimist is a leader in her community. She believes that by joining with other women and engaging in awareness, advocacy and action in the service of her community and society, she can make the world a better place for humankind.

Soroptimists make a difference for women through six programs of service:

1. Economic and social development
2. Education
3. Environment
4. Health
5. Human rights/status of women
6. International goodwill and understanding.

Using a three-pronged approach (awareness, advocacy and action), Soroptimists identify the special needs of the community - be it a big, industrial city or a small, rural town. Soroptimists then establish projects that best address these specific needs.

In addition to their commitment to the community, Soroptimists work for change at national and international levels to improve the quality of life for people throughout the world.

Soroptimist Related Websites

Soroptimist International of the America's

Soroptimist International

Soroptimist International of Great Britain & Ireland Federation

Soroptimist International of South West Pacific Federation

Soroptimist International of Europe Federation

The Soroptimist Foundation of Canada

Quadrennial Project (2007 - 2011) - Project Sierra A Family and A Future

Quadrennial Project (2003 - 2007) - Women Survivors of War