Greetings from Governor Angela

Soroptimist is an international volunteer organization for business and professional women who work to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.

Soroptimist means "best for women". And that is what we are - women at our best helping other women to be their best. Soroptimist are women who wish to give back to their communities in an atmosphere of fun and friendship.

Today, nearly 100,000 Soroptimists in more than 120 countries and territories contribute their time and financial support to community based projects benefiting women and girls.

Throughout history, in every country in the world, women and girls face greater obstacles and discrimination because of their gender. One in three women will be beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in their lifetime; the number of women infected with HIV/AIDS continues to steadily rise and is now reaching a staggering 18 million; women work two-thirds of the world's hours but earn only 10 percent of the world's income; two-thirds of the 880 million illiterate adults are women. Of the more than 110 million children not in school, approximately 60 percent are girls; two million girls and women are subjected to female genital mutilation every year.

Through international partnerships and a global network of members, Soroptimists inspire action and create opportunities to transform the lives of women and girls by:

• Advocating for equity and equality
• Creating safe and healthy environments
• Increasing access to education
• Developing leadership and practical skills for a sustainable future

As a member of Soroptimist International you will have the opportunity to participate in local projects that will impact your community and you will belong to the international community offering programmes throughout the world to help those less fortunate. Please contact a club in your area and make a difference for women and girls in your local community and throughout the world.

Sincerely,

Angela Bunting,
Governor, Western Canada Region