Soroptimist is an international volunteer organization of women comprised of members either embarking on, in or retired from a career, aiming to create true social and economic equality for women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. Soroptimist means “best for women” and that’s what we strive to be – women at our best striving to help other women be their best. As a volunteer organization we feel uniquely qualified to help women and girls live their dreams.

Central Okanagan

We are now looking for new members for the central Okanagan community. We have clubs in Kamloops and Osoyoos and are planning to charter a club in the central area.

Worldwide

Soroptimist Internationale has about 95,000 members in more than 120 countries and territories. Each of these members have contributed time and financial support to community-based projects since 1921. 

Community Service projects range from large capital grants and funding for equipment, to hands-on service. Projects include:
 Cash grants for women seeking to improve their economic situations through additional education and training
 Supporting Community organizations helping women and girls
 Children of the Street Society
 Women’s Resource & Transition Houses; i.e. donating clothing & personal care kits
 Homeless and/or Women in need
 Making comfort cushions for mastectomy patients
 Purple Card distribution as part of a campaign to help end violence towards women
 Donating hampers to families in need at Christmas and “Christmas in July” 

Soroptimist International has NGO status with the UN and is represented on the Status of Women/Human Rights Commissions. Support many international causes, which include the following:
 Project Sierra/Hope and Homes for Children; transforming the lives of some of the most deprived women and children in the world.
 STOP Trafficking project, ensuring women and girls everywhere have lives filled with dignity and respect. 

JOIN NOW
For more information on how you can become a member of Soroptimist International and make a difference in your community, please contact Bea Kelly at bebe25@telus.net or by phone at 604-945-7071. Also, please visit our international website for more information at www.soroptimist.org and also www.wcsoroptimist.org (Western Canada Region). 

Bea Kelly is the Extension Chair of the Western Canada Region, Soroptimist International. The views and information presented here are those of the author, Bea Kelly.