Soroptimist International of Los Banos

Soroptimist International of Los Banos

The first Soroptimist club was formed in 1921 by a group of 80 women in Oakland, Alameda County, California. The name "Soroptimist" is a coined word which came from two Latin words that mean the "best for women." Our first President was Violet Richardson Ward. Since then our organization has grown internationally with clubs world-wide.
Soroptimists today continue the work begun by the founding members. The main goal of Soroptimist clubs is to fulfill their Mission Statement which is to "Improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world." Projects are carefully chosen in each community to address challenges unique to today's women and girls. Sample club projects worldwide include: providing minority women with routine medical care; mentoring young women to give volunteer service to their schools and community; funding and volunteering at domestic violence shelters, sponsoring career development programs for teen mothers; tutoring women in literacy and basic job skills.
Soroptimist clubs also participate in programs developed by Soroptimist International of the Americas. The major service project of Soroptimist International of the Americas is the "Women's Opportunity Award," which provides cash grants for head of household women seeking to improve their economic situation through additional education and training. A sampling of other service programs include the "Violet Richardson Award," which honors teen aged girls who participate in volunteerism, and the "Making a Difference for Women Award," which honors a woman who's work makes a positive difference in the lives of women and girls in her community.
Soroptimist is a recognized authority on matters that women world-wide, value most. To meet this goal, Soroptimist uses it's international voice as we advocate on behalf of women's issues by using our official status with the United Nations.
Won't you join Soroptimist soon? Membership will provide you with an enriching atmosphere to develop lasting friendships, while we experience satisfaction as we improve our communities and the lives of women and girls.
Contact us at : silosbanos@soroptimist.net

Improving the lives of women and girls
in local communities and throughout the world.