Soroptimist International
of
Central and South West London
History of Soroptimism and the Soroptimist International of
Central and South West London Club
Soroptimist International
Soroptimist International was founded in 1921 in Oakland, California. Eighty women in professions that included medicine, laboratory technology, education and printing formed the first Soroptimist club to foster the ideal of service. Since 1921, membership has grown to nearly 100,000 women in 119 countries and territories. The common thread that connects all Soroptimists is their desire to make a difference for women.
Soroptimist International is divided into four “federations”: Soroptimist International of the Americas, Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland, Soroptimist International of Europe and Soroptimist International of South West Pacific. Soroptimist International of the Americas is the largest of the four, representing nearly 50,000 members in 18 countries and territories.
Soroptimist members represent the diverse occupations found in each community. To be eligible for membership one must be actively engaged in a management or professional capacity or in an occupation with comparable status or responsibilities.
Benefits
of Membership
If you are an accomplished business or professional woman who wishes to
provide volunteer service in an atmosphere of support, friendship and fun, then
joining Soroptimist may be right for you. Soroptimist membership provides a
variety of benefits, including:
· Fulfillment – Working on projects that improve the lives of others leads to personal satisfaction and recognition from the community.
· Friendship – Cultivating relationships with other women who have similar interests and values is a central aspect of Soroptimist membership.
· Diversity – Meeting and learning about women from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and participating in projects that address the needs of women throughout the globe, contributes to world peace and understanding.
· Networking – Associating with other women representing a variety of professions facilitates valuable business contacts.
· Leadership – Developing skills at the club level results in enhanced professional capabilities as well as leadership opportunities at all levels of the organization.
· Mentoring – Reaching out to women at the beginning of their professional lives provides an avenue for Soroptimist members to serve as mentors.
· Convenience – Belonging to an association with organized programs and professionally developed resources frees members from administrative constraints, while enabling them to concentrate on providing volunteer service.
Soroptimist International of Central and South West London Club
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