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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Soroptimist?
 

Soroptimist is a global women's organization whose members work to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment.  Soroptimist programs focus on providing women and girls with access to education, which is one of the most effective ways to end social problems disproportionately affecting women and girls. 

 

When was Soroptimist formed?

 

The first Soroptimist club was formed in 1921 by a group of 80 women in Oakland, Alameda County, Califorinia, USA.

 

How can women join Soroptimist?

 

Women who are interested in joining a Soroptimist club should contact a local club or visit soroptimist.org and fill out an introduction form.

 

Why does Soroptimist focus on women and girls?

 

Soroptimist was formed because in 1921 women who were interested in volunteering in their communities were not permitted to join male service organizations.  Since that time, the organization has worked to help women improve their standing in the world. Despite tremendous strides, women still do not enjoy equal economic or social status with their male counterparts.  As an organization of and for women, Soroptimist feels uniquely qualified to tackle the challenges facing today's women and girls. 

 

What is Soroptimist's relationship with the United Nations?
 

Soroptimist International has consultive status with the United Nations' Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which oversees U.N. activities and policies promoting human rights.  Representatives from Soroptimist International can request agenda items, submit written statements for circulation to all members of the council, make oral statements at meetings, and contribute to other U.N. gatherings and seminars.  Soroptimist representatives are volunteers and work in one of the four U.N. centers in New York City, Paris, Vienna or Geneva.  It is in this forum that Soroptmist representatives can advocate for the Soroptimist mission of improving the lives of women and girls. 

How are Soroptimist programs funded?
 

Soroptimist programs are funded by investment income, member dues, and contributions from clubs and members.  As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Soroptimist also depends on outside contributions from people who support the Soroptimist mission.

 

How can women apply for a Live Your Dream Award?

 

Live Your Dream Awards applications are available from local participating Soroptimist clubs.  The application can also be found here. 

 

Does Soroptimist Internatioanl of the Americas hold a convention?

 

Soroptimist International of the America's holds its convention every two years and Soroptimist International holds one every four years. 

 

What is the relationship between Soroptimist International of the Americas and Soroptimist International?

 

Soroptimist International of the Americas, headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, USA is one of four federations comprising Soroptimist International, which is headquartered in Cambridge, England.  The other three federations affiliated with SI are: Soroptimist International of Great Britian and Ireland, Soroptimist Internatinal of Europe, and Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific

 

How many countries make up Soroptimist International of the Americas?
 

SIA clubs are located in 20 countries and territiories: Argentina, Boliva, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecudor, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, United States and Venezuela. 

 

How many members are in Soroptimist?

 

Soroptimist International has about 80,000 members in about 134 countries and territories. 

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