Ready for Electronic Voting?

In late February, SIA will conduct our first all-electronic mail ballot to elect our 2020-2021 president-elect. Clubs will receive an individualized authenticated link to enter the voting system to cast their votes; that link will be sent to the club’s @soroptimist.net club email address. Club presidents and club treasurers will receive notification of the ballot through their personal email addresses on file with SIA headquarters, but the authenticated link will be sent ONLY to the club email address. The ballot will be available beginning Friday, February 28 through Thursday, April 30.

If your club is not regularly accessing its @soroptimist.net club email address, please start doing so now. Instructions on using the club email system can be found on the website in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our membership services team at siahq@soroptimist.org.

Convention Update

Convention Registration
The early bird convention registration has passed. The regular registration rate of $625 is in effect and available until May 15. Register between now and then to receive a chance to win a prize in the registration contest. See contest flyer for details.

Convention Fee
Clubs, check your inboxes! The 2020 convention fee letter and invoices from SIA have been sent to all clubs. Convention is an opportunity to conduct the future planning and business of our global organization. As such, all clubs share in the financial responsibility for the convention. Each club’s share is US$550.00, and entitles your club to:

• One voting delegate at the convention
• Convention registration for your club’s delegate, which is a savings of $550 (this does not include meals).
• An opportunity to participate in the future planning for SIA. We are expecting eight amendments to SIA bylaws.

Invoices are due to headquarters by March 15.

Convention Hotel
The Hyatt Regency Hotel still has rooms available and has recently added sleeping rooms with two beds to our room block. If you have trouble booking online, please contact the hotel directly.

Convention Tours
Updated local tour information is available on the convention webpage, including a special from Tour Northwest. The company will offer a 15 percent discount to Soroptimists for any of their tours between July 15 and 31. Check the flyer for details on this tour opportunity and more.

Soroptimist After Hours
As you complete your convention registration, don’t miss the opportunity to sign up for Soroptimist After Hours, taking place Friday evening, July 24, 8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening with hundreds of your Soroptimist friends at the Reaching New Heights Night Club. You will find a night filled with karaoke, comedy, dancing, a no-host bar and some surprise fun activities!

Friendship Dinner World of Dance Showcase
One of the highlights of our Friendship Dinner at convention will be our World of Dance Showcase! We are looking for members, clubs, and regions to share a dance that represents their part of the world, or a style of dance your members enjoy performing. Those interested in participating should contact Convention Vice Chair Sue Riney at riney@whidbey.net for more details. Space for the Friendship Dinner is limited, and the deadline to indicate interest in participating in the World of Dance Showcase is May 15.

Year-end Results Infographic

SIA’s year-end results are shared in an easy to understand infographic. It is available in all languages! Visit the Translated Resources page, then look under the Federation Information section for the downloadable PDF. A direct link to the English version is here. Read, enjoy and celebrate our many successes in FY2018-2019!

Keeping Your Resolutions

Finding it hard to keep to your resolutions one month into the new year? Read this blog post on LiveYourDream.org to see how you can help improve your mood, ease symptoms of stress and gain positive energy!

Soroptimist Store

Introducing our brand-new expandable bar bracelet (available in both gold and silver), accented with a stunning Swarovski sapphire crystal. This bracelet features our Live Your Dream Awards and “S” logos, is expandable from 2″ to 3.5″, and comes in a custom Soroptimist gift box for $45 (silver) or $46 (gold). Order yours today!

Program

Live Your Dream Awards Deadline Reminders

February 1: New club funding deadline
February 1: Club applications due to districts deadline
February 15: Club/district applications due to regions
March 15: Region recipients’ applications due to SIAHQ

Take One Step

Reporting to SIA may feel time-consuming, but it’s so important! Your reporting enables us to understand and report back to our global membership about your collective impact through the Dream Programs. This month take one step by ensuring your club’s hard work is counted by reporting it to SIA!

Dream It, Be It Reporting Link (report by June 1, 2020)
Live Your Dream Awards Club Transmittal (report to region chair by February 15, 2020)

Soroptimist Club Grants

Soroptimist Club Grant applications are due March 1 to program@soroptimist.org. For more information about eligible projects and to start an application, visit this page!

Development

Did you know the Laurel Society is made up of eight prestigious levels?
That’s right! Whether you contribute to our Live Your Dream Awards, Dream It Be It, or both through unrestricted support—you’re advancing your Laurel Society Recognition every time you give.

Plus, as you reach each of these eight prestigious levels—your generosity is acknowledged with an exclusive pin, unique to that particular Laurel Society level.

Commit to investing in the dreams of women and girls and further your recognition as a Laurel Society member—make a gift today!

Membership

Dealing with Differences

With so many diverse and talented members, differences are bound to occur in our clubs. If you find yourself needing to referee a dispute, first, take a deep breath! Then reference this conflict resolution tip to come to a positive resolution and achieve closure.

Public Awareness

#SoroptimistsAtWork Photos

We recently launched a #SoroptimistsAtWork social media campaign asking to share photos on social media of your club members having a great time. You can read more details about this membership campaign on Facebook. Here are a few simple tips for creating compelling, engaging and meaningful pictures:

• Take closeups—try to stay away from large group shots.
• Show members in action—having fun!
• Make sure the lighting is good—we want to see your faces.
• Steer clear of a distracting background—we want YOU to be the focus.
• Take multiple pictures then decide which one is best to share—don’t you hate when you take a picture then later realize someone’s eyes are closed?

We look forward to receiving your pictures for the campaign by May 31. Please keep these tips in mind when sharing photos on your own social media pages and promoting your club projects.

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now! Check out our frequently asked questions to find out who is invited, the events planned during the celebration and more!

New SI President

We are so pleased to offer our support to past SIA President Sharon Fisher as she begins her term as SI president. Read Sharon’s message as SI prepares to take the next steps on the journey to gender equality.

CSW64

SI President Sharon and SIA President Tina will join a delegation of members from around the world to attend the 64^thCommission on the Status of Women at the United Nations in March. This is an important meeting of the CSW as they review 25 years of progress on the Beijing Platform for Action.

Happy Holidays!

SIA headquarters wishes all members throughout our 21 countries and territories a very happy holiday season!

Soroptimist Progress in FY18/19

In fiscal year 2018-2019, SIA made progress in achieving increased collective impact. We define the success of increased collective impact as our thriving membership economically empowering women and girls through our widely recognized, brand-unifying Dream Programs. Click here to view SIA’s progress and accomplishments.

Convention Updates

Register early and save! 

The early registration deadline for convention is January 15. Payment must be made online or accompany the registration form to receive the discounted rate. The fee increases on January 16. Register now and don’t forget to book your hotel reservations at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue.

Registration contest
Everyone who registers for convention by May 15 will be entered to win a prize. See contest flyer for more details.

Soroptimist After Hours
Register to join with hundreds of your closest Soroptimist friends at the Reaching New Heights Night Club, where there will be karaoke, comedy, dancing, a no host bar and some surprise fun activities! Sign up now via the convention registration page.

Convention Fee
A convention fee invoice will be mailed to each club president in January. Convention is an opportunity to conduct the future planning and business of our global organization. As such, all clubs share in the financial responsibility for the convention. Each club’s share is US$550.00. This convention fee entitles your club to:

• One voting delegate at the convention
• Convention registration for your club’s delegate, which is a savings of $550 (this does not include meals).
• An opportunity to participate in the future planning for SIA.

Tours
Located just a few miles east of Seattle, Bellevue offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors and take in the beautiful scenery of the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy optional tours, including an Alaskan Cruise or additional tours to Snoqualmie Falls for wine tasting and farm to table dining, Mt. Ranier Park, and other scenic locations.

Sponsorship Package
Help us Reach New Heights by becoming a convention sponsor! Link your organization, products or services with the more than 1,000 women attending our four-day event and gain exposure to close to 30,000 Soroptimists in 21 countries and territories. Or use this sponsorship kit to approach any business where you may have a good contact to ask for their support.

Ready for Electronic Voting?

In late February, SIA will conduct our first all-electronic mail ballot to elect our 2020-2021 president-elect. Clubs will receive an individualized authenticated link to enter the voting system to cast its vote; that link will be sent to the club’s @soroptimist.net club email address. Club presidents and club treasurers will receive notification of the ballot through their personal email addresses on file with SIA headquarters, but the authenticated link will be sent only to the club email address. If your club is not regularly accessing its @soroptimist.net club email address, please start doing so now. Instructions on using the club email system can be found on the website in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our membership services team at siahq@soroptimist.org.

In Memoriam

We are sad to report that Joyce Byrne, 1990-1992 SIA president, passed away in December. She joined Soroptimist in 1975 and also served as Desert Coast Region governor and club president. Joyce, who held a Ph.D. in leadership and human behavior, guided SIA through unprecedented change as the recommendations of what was known as “The Plan” were implemented. Our heartfelt condolences to Joyce’s family and friends. To learn more about Joyce and her contributions to Soroptimist click here. For visitation and funeral service information click here.

Soroptimist Store

Introducing our brand-new trio pendant necklace (available in both 24kt gold and silver) measuring 24″ with a 2″ adjustable extender. This beautiful necklace features our Live Your Dream tag charm accented with Swarovski crystal, our Soroptimist globe charm studded with a Swarovski sapphire-color crystal, and a vintage synthetic pearl to round out the trio. Make sure to add this eye-catching piece to your collection—it’s sure to strike up a conversation! Presented in a custom Soroptimist gift box.

Program

We are excited to share the incredible global impact of our Dream Programs through our beautiful updated SIA infographics! The Live Your Dream Awards and Dream It, Be It infographics can be a great tool for raising awareness of your club and the global impact of Soroptimist.

Did you know your club can now share your impact in your local community through the Live Your Dream Awards and Dream It, Be It club-level infographics? These infographics are fully customizable for your club, and include tips for use and printing.

Live Your Dream Awards

Now that the November 15 application deadline has passed, it’s time to select your recipients!

Check out our resources on:

• How To: Select Recipients
• Sample Judging Invitation
• Confidentiality Form
• Judges’ Evaluation Form
• Sample Recipient Letter
• Sample Non-recipient Letter

Dream It, Be It

Please be sure to have each girl complete the SIA-provided Evaluation Form at the end of your Dream It, Be It project. Even if your club adds your own form, we still need to receive completed SIA Evaluation Forms for each participant. This is how we measure critical impact information about our program!

Don’t forget to report your Dream It, Be It project via the online form within one month of the project and no later than June 1, 2020.

Public Awareness

With the end of the year on the horizon, remember that your SIA Board of Directors asked that clubs begin exclusively using the S logo as their visual identity (if they haven’t done so already) by December 31, 2019. Thank you to all the clubs that have taken steps to update your publicity materials, banners websites and social media pages with the S logo, which is SIA’s main visual identifier. You can download the S logo from the Recognition and Branding pageof the website. Help us grow public recognition of our impact!

Membership

In Search of Next Gen Soroptimists

We are thrilled to offer programming tailored to the next generation of Soroptimists during the 46th Biennial Convention in Bellevue, WA! Why do we want to connect with younger members? We know that the insights and involvement of the Next Generation of Soroptimists is critical to lead our organization into the future. Help us connect with this group by emailing us at membership@soroptimist.org with the members’ names in your club who fit this profile. We want to make sure they know what we are planning and get their feedback.

Take One Step

Take one step and give prospects what they want! Prospective members have told us they want to join Soroptimist because of our mission of providing women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. The best way to deliver on that brand promise is to engage them in our Dream Programs. Check out this recruitment tip to see how!

Development

1921 Visionaries

Every year, the 1921 Visionaries recognizes the dedication its members show by giving numbered pins with each milestone they reach for 5, 10, 15, and 20 years.

Joining the 1921 Visionaries is a meaningful way to build recognition in the Laurel Society. If you were to give $50 per month, for two years, you would not only help women and girls who are facing ongoing struggles, but also achieve Attaché status in the Laurel Society!

To start your journey toward becoming a 1921 Visionary, be sure to make a gift by December 31st, 2019!

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now! Check out our frequently asked questions to find out who is invited, the events planned during the celebration and more!

LYD.org 

As a woman, knowing your worth is highly important, whether it’s within a workplace, relationship, or other aspect of life. Read more about the value of YOU in this “Determining Your Self-Worth” blog post.

 

SIA

Convention

Registration and housing is officially open for the 46th Biennial Convention in Bellevue, Washington. Please join us Wednesday July 22 – Saturday, July 25 as we celebrate our successes in Reaching New Heights. Our volunteer Convention Committee Chairs and members have been planning an amazing convention for us. Access all the latest information and schedule via the convention website. And remember, we will be kicking off Soroptimist’s 100^th Anniversary celebration during convention.

Soroptimist Store

Introducing our brand-new expandable bar bracelet (available in both 24kt goldand silver), with a Swarovski sapphire color charm. This gorgeous bracelet features our “S” logo, is expandable from 2” to 2.5’, and now comes in a custom Soroptimist gift box.

Development

Save the Date—#GivingTuesday

December 3, 2019 is #GivingTuesday—a global day of giving! This year we are launching a Facebook Fundraising campaign, a unique opportunity to host your own Soroptimist fundraiser! By creating a Facebook Fundraiser you’ll not only be raising awareness about our Dream Programs, but you’ll be providing your friends and family with the opportunity to invest in the cause you’re passionate about!

Never created a Facebook Fundraiser? No problem! We will provide a toolkit—arming you with all the tips and tricks to help make your Facebook Fundraiser a success! Keep a lookout for our #GivingTuesday emails that will include all of the details you will need to get started!

Program

Live Your Dream Awards

The Live Your Dream Awards saw another year of inspiring growth, reaching 1,655 women and $2.6 million in funding distributed! Read all about the 2018-2019 Live Your Dream Awards in this impact report for members.

Dream It, Be It

Our clubs have done an incredible job with increasing the reach of Dream It, Be It—over 20,000 girls participated in 14 countries and territories in 2018/2019! Learn about our exciting program  in this Dream It, Be It impact report for members.

Commission on the Status of Women 2020

The 64^th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) will take place at United Nations headquarters in New York from March 9-20, 2020. Every year, Soroptimist sends a delegation of leaders and members interested in advocating for the Soroptimist position, learning more about the United Nations and networking with other women’s organizations. The delegation is made up of Soroptimists from around the world and is a unique experience to learn, network and advocate. If you are interested in attending at your own expense, click here to learn more and register your interest. Please note that space is very limited.

Grants of Friendship

Rocky Mountain Region is offering a Grant of Friendship to a Soroptimist, two Soroptimists traveling together, or a Soroptimist and her spouse or travelling companion. Their hospitality is offered for up to 21 days and must include the Rocky Mountain Region Spring Conference on May 1 – 3 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Applications are due December 1. Click here for more information.

Camino Real Region is offering a Grant of Friendship to a Soroptimist member from outside of the United States for 3 weeks, including April 17-19, 2020 (the region conference). The Soroptimist grantee is expected to speak to host clubs and at the region conference, communicating information about the grantee’s home club and region, and the service projects undertaken by both. Applications are due by January 15, 2020. Click here for more information.

Membership

You’re the Inspiration

Motivation is an important skill to have! When you motivate your fellow club members, you energize them and keep them enthusiastic about working together to accomplish our mission. Additionally, when you inspire members, their engagement increases and more harmony exists within the club. Read more about why Motivation Matters. 

It’s Great to be a Soroptimist!

Help us spread the word about how awesome it is to be a Soroptimist member! Submit your photos of club members having a wonderful time participating in volunteer projects including our Dream Programs, or just socializing and having a great time with one another. Click here to learn more about becoming part of our upcoming campaign on social media!

Public Awareness

Using the S Logo

Take One Step by using the S logo on your publicity materials! With the end of the year on the horizon, remember that your SIA Board of Directors asked that clubs begin exclusively using the S logo as their visual identity (if they haven’t done so already) by December 31, 2019. Thank you to all the clubs that have taken steps to update your publicity materials, banners websites and social media pages with the S logo, which is SIA’s main visual identifier. You can download the S logo from the Recognition and Branding page of the website. Help us grow public recognition of our impact!

P.S. Has your club taken steps to help more women and girls? Download and post our special social media badge to celebrate your work!

Best for Women Newsletter

Purchasing a Best for Women newsletter subscription for your award recipients, local library or domestic violence shelter, is a great way to stay connected and raise awareness about SIA. To order a subscription, contact siahq@soroptimist.org and reference the Best for Women newsletter subscription.

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now!

SI Meetings

Read a summary of meetings held prior to SI’s 21st International Convention, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

LYD.org 

Have you seen your friends and family hosting online fundraisers? Interested in finding out more and making a greater impact? It turns out it’s not so hard to harness the power of your community and turn a dime into a dollar. Learn more about the power of one donation vs. many donations here.

 

SIA

Convention

Take One Step by attending our 46^th Biennial Convention in Bellevue, Washington, USA! We are pleased to announce Robyn Benincasa will join us to explore the importance of breakthrough performance through collaboration, creativity and the culture of ONE!

There is so much fun, friendship and learning in store. Plus, be there as we kick off Soroptimist’s year-long 100^th Anniversary celebration! Check out some of the excitement ahead.

Registration will open this month! Current convention hotel rates and information, registration rates, and meal options are available on the SIA Convention page. Be sure to follow the Soroptimist 46th Biennial Convention—Bellevue 2020 Facebook page for updates on speakers, tours and other exciting details!

Soroptimist Store

Introducing our brand-new expandable bar bracelet (available in both 24kt goldand silver), accented with a stunning Swarovski sapphire color crystal. This gorgeous bracelet features our Live Your Dream Awards and “S” logo, is expandable from 2″ to 3.5″, and now comes in a custom Soroptimist gift box.

Program

Dream It, Be It

The Dream It, Be It curriculum received some sprucing up over the summer! Did you know we added a resource with suggestions on how to incorporate more physical movement into your project? It can be found in the Curriculum Guide!

You don’t need to wait until the June 30 deadline to complete the Club Reporting and Evaluation Online Form for your club’s Dream It, Be It project—we recommend reporting within 30 days of completion. Be sure to share quotes and photos (with participant consent, of course!). We love to see your projects and hear about your impact!

Live Your Dream Awards

There’s still plenty of time to recruit eligible applicants for the Live Your Dream Awards! We have some tips prepared to assist with recruitment in the Live Your Dream Awards toolkit.

Development

Invest in Dreams through a Donor Advised Fund

A donor advised fund (DAF) gives you the opportunity to provide women and girls with access to education, while receiving immediate tax benefits for your donation.

How it works:

• Establish your DAF (with Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, Vanguard Charitable, or other charitable sponsors that have a DAF program).
• Choose the investment allocation of your contribution.
• Recommend a grant to Soroptimist International of the Americas.

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Nancy Montvydas, CFRE, senior director of development, at nancym@soroptimist.org or 215-893-9000 x125.

Membership

New Leadership Resource

Check out the Club Leadership Role Delineation Study to help you and your fellow club leaders in your role this year. This resource is based on a survey we conducted and features position descriptions for key club leaders. Use these to help guide you, and inform current and potential leaders of their responsibilities, time commitment, and the necessary skills and experience to be successful.

Engaging the Next Generation

We are thrilled to offer programming tailored to the next generation of Soroptimists during the 2020 Convention in Bellevue, WA. We are planning a happy hour for our younger members to meet SIA leaders, focus groups and a panel discussion for younger members to share their experiences, and engaging workshop content developed with their interests in mind. Please encourage your club’s younger members to attend convention, and consider sending them as your delegate!

Public Awareness

New Club Brochure

As you recently heard, SIA has refined its brand image and messaging. Our updated look, language and logo are beautifully featured in this newly designed bi-fold brochure template that clubs can easily customize and print from home or provide to a professional printer. The brochure is available in all languages and available from the translated resources pages.

Updated Website Guidelines

Does your club wish to learn what building a website entails? Do you have an out-of-date website that needs sprucing up? Check out SIA’s updated website guidelines. It walks you through the building process and provides information on creating an engaging site that fosters the Soroptimist brand, promotes the mission and markets your club. The guide is available in all languages.

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now!

LYD.org

Cynthia is a survivor with an uplifting message: hope and healing. Read more about one of our Live Your Dream Awards recipient who overcame enormous odds and fights for other survivors as well.

New Year, New President

Let’s welcome our 2019-2020 president, Tina Wei-Kang Pan, of SI/Taipei, Taiwan! Watch this video to hear Tina’s inspiring message to members as she begins her term as SIA president. Watch for an interview with President Tina in the next issue of Best for Women.

Meet Your 2019-2020 SIA Leadership

SIA’s 2019-2020 leadership team is in place. Joining President Tina Wei-Kang Pan, SI/Taipei, Taiwan (Taiwan Region) as officers on the SIA Board are President-elect Penny Babb, SI/Happy Valley of the Sun, AZ (Golden West Region) and Secretary/Treasurer Kazuko Morita, SI/Kyoto, Japan (Japan Chuo Region). They join continuing Board members Jane Carol Azevedo, SI/Brasilia, Brazil (Brazil Region), Ohran Choe, SI/Daegu, Korea (Korea Region), Robin Davis, SI/Woodbridge, VA (Central East Coast Region), Margo Hartman, SI/Scotts Bluff County, NE (Rocky Mountain Region), Patricia McCay, SI/Huntsville, AL (Southern Region), and Hisako Mishima, SI/Kitakyushu, Japan (Japan Minami Region). New Board members for September 1 through August 31, 2021 are Myra Paz Abubakar, SI/Zamboanga (Philippines Region), Jackie DeMartini, SI/Loomis Basin, CA (Sierra Nevada Region), Taeko Endo, SI/Sendai, Japan (Japan Kita Region), Elizabeth Jane “BJ” Gallagher, SI/Edmonton, AB (Western Canada Region), and Clara Luces de Orue, SI/Asuncion, Paraguay (America del Sur Region).

The SIA Board also completed appointments to the SIA Fundraising Council. Continuing on the Council are Chair Lee Ann Cochran, SI/Cleveland, OH (Midwestern Region), Dona Gaddis Wolf, SI/Antioch, CA (Founder Region) and Susan Gilbey, SI/Westminster, CA (Desert Coast Region). New Fundraising Council members appointed for the 2019-2021 term are Kathleen Meyer, SI/Indian Rock, PA (North Atlantic Region) and Sachie Okada, SI/Iwami, Japan (Japan Nishi Region).

Convention

We are so excited for our 46^th Biennial Convention in Bellevue, Washington, USA, July 22-25, 2020. Preparations are underway for a fabulous event! Current convention hotel rates and information, registration rates, and meal options are available on the SIA Convention page. Be sure to follow the Soroptimist 46th Biennial Convention—Bellevue 2020 Facebook page so you can stay in the know about all the fun tours, events and activities the Convention Committee has in store for you! And remember, during convention, we will be kicking off our 100^thAnniversary celebration.

SIA Leadership Nominations Open!

Nominations are being accepted for 2020-2022 SIA Board positions in the following regions: Electoral Area 1–Brazil, Electoral Area 3–Japan Nishi, Electoral Area 5–Taiwan, Electoral Area 11–South Central, Electoral Area 12–North Atlantic, Electoral Area 13–Northwestern. Nomination forms for these electoral areas can be found on the SIA website, and were sent to all clubs in these regions by postal mail in late July. Board nominations are due to SIA headquarters September 15, 2019.

Nominations are open from all clubs in SIA for Fundraising Council. Two members will be appointed by the SIA Board to this group this year. Fundraising Council nomination forms are due on September 15, 2019, and can be found on the SIA website.

With our Soroptimist Forward Collection, we have some beautiful new jewelry for you.

This month we’re featuring the new Floating Locket Pendant (item #175). A piece that speaks for itself, this necklace mesmerizes with its 24KT gold finish, floating charms, and Swarovski crystals lining the glass encasement. At 22″ in length with a 2″ adjustable extender that features a lobster clasp closure, this necklace will most certainly attract attention and possibly spark some interesting conversation!  Presented in a custom Soroptimist gift box.

Membership

Where are we going? Follow the Map!

Did you know we can accomplish so much more when everyone supports our current Big Goal of Increased Collective Impact? Simply follow the 2019-2020 Club Roadmap for Success for five areas of focus that will guide your plans for this year, help us reach our goals, and provide a positive club experience. 

More Diamond Club Kudos!

As you know, after Phase 1 of our Diamond Campaign we celebrated 174 Diamond Clubs that met all three campaign goals. Did you know that some high performers were randomly selected to win a $500 USD cash prize to support their Dream Programs? Congratulations to the following clubs for winning a cash prize, and good luck to all of our clubs and regions as you work together to meet the Phase 2 goals in pursuit of this year’s recognitions and awards!

$500 drawing for 10 clubs meeting all three goals:

• Tahoe Sierra, CA, USA
• Pasco-Kennewick, WA, USA
• Loomis Basin, CA, USA
• Dazaifu, Japan
• Dayton, OH, USA
• Sampaloc, Philippines
• Federal Way, WA, USA
• North San Mateo County, CA, USA
• Sequim, WA, USA
• Grosse Pointe, MI, USA

$500 drawing for one club meeting -1% or better net change in membership:

• Sendai-Airisu, Japan

$500 drawing for one club meeting 13% or more new members:

• Miranda, Venezuela

$500 drawing for one club meeting 14% or fewer dropped members:

• Bountiful, UT, USA

Development

A Message from Nancy Montyvdas

As a staff member and proud Soroptimist for more than 25 years, I often find myself reflecting on all we’ve accomplished—grateful for the progress we have made and humbled by the journey ahead of us. I am constantly amazed and inspired by the compassion and dedication you all have shown. You are truly the driving force behind all that we do.

Without you, we would have not been able to help the thousands of courageous women and girls who had nowhere else to turn. You recognized their plight and chose to take action—investing in their dreams so they could transform their lives. For that, I am truly grateful.

You have become more than just members—you are our devoted partners, our visionary supporters, and our most passionate advocates. Together we’ve made an extraordinary impact and it excites me to imagine the strides we will continue to make. I am honored to work alongside you and thank you for your unwavering service, your generosity, and your belief in our mission.
—Nancy Montvydas, Senior Director of Fund Development

Program

Dream Programs

High quality photos can help raise your club’s public profile and spread the word about our Dream Programs.  We recommend seeking a volunteer photographer in your community who can take beautiful photos for you at Live Your Dream Awards or Dream It, Be It events!  Email photos to program@soroptimist.org. Be sure to send JPG or PNG files, preferably with shots of four or fewer people, and don’t forget  to get a signed media consent form!

Live Your Dream Awards

As a reminder, the SIA Board of Directors voted in July 2016 to define participation in the Live Your Dream Awards to include the distribution of a cash award. Starting this year, clubs that do not give a cash award will not be counted as participating in the program.

Take One Step

Thank you to all the clubs that took one step to help us reach more women and girls. Check out all our actions from last year and look for new tips coming each month in the Soroptimist Summary!

Public Awareness

Kick off the New Year with New Resources!

Are you excited for the new club year? Here are some new or updated materials to help keep Soroptimist, your club and our Dream Programs in the limelight:

• Downloadable Logos
• Social Media Tool Kit
• Website Guide
• Customizable club brochure
• Customizable news release promoting your new club
• Customizable news release to attract members

Find other public awareness tools on the Recognition and Branding page. And don’t forget, SIA now has a refined mission statement and tag line.

The End of an Era

As of December 31, 2019, all clubs should be switched over to using the SIA S logo. This FAQ will answer your questions about the logo policy. If your club needs to create a new banner or flag with the S logo, please see the updated banner and flag guide. And be sure to review the updated Branding and Style guide to learn more about our visual identity and messaging. Thank you for your efforts to be on point with the Soroptimist brand!

LYD.org

It might not be on the playground, but bullying occurs across all industries. And women are often on the receiving end. Read more here and learn about ways to foster a supportive community among women.

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now!

December 10th President’s Appeal

SI President-elect Sharon Fisher announced her December 10^th President’s Appeal at the SI convention in Malaysia. The Road to Equality will focus on the role SI can play in achieving gender equality as we develop capacity and raise awareness on human rights challenges that prevent women and girls from reaching their full potential. Look for more information when the new appeal launches on October 1.

 

SIA

Convention

We are so excited for our 46^th Biennial Convention in Bellevue, Washington, USA, July 22-25. Preparations are underway for a fabulous event! Current convention hotel rates and information, our accommodating registration rates, and meal options are available on the SIA Convention page. Be sure to follow the Soroptimist 46th Biennial Convention – Bellevue 2020 Facebook page so you can stay in the know about all the fun tours, events and activities the convention committee has in store for you!

Recognition Banquet

The 2019 SIA Recognition Banquet in Montreal, QC, Canada, celebrated clubs and regions for their achievements and honored SIA leadership. The fun-filled event included an awards presentation, recognition of outgoing and incoming Fundraising Council and Board of Director members, and the installation of 2019-2020 President Tina Wei-Kang Pan. Check out our photo album to see the fun!

Soroptimist Store

Get ready for some beautiful new Soroptimist jewelry for both you and your club members! Our new Soroptimist Forward collection expresses our future in silver and gold. This charm bracelet is one of the many new and exciting jewelry pieces coming your way. Be sure to check out our online store in September.

Program

Live Your Dream Awards

Clubs in the US and Canada: We’ve made changes to make the portal experience even better for everyone,including making it easier to communicate with applicants through the portal and making it clearer to applicants that dependents are required to be eligible for the award. In our first year, we had 91 percent participation using the application portal—let’s hit 100 percent this year!

The Live Your Dream Awards application for all regions and interested women will be available August 1. Clubs can access the writable PDF through the members-only section of the site.

Take One Step

Is your club making changes to support our increased collective impact? Perhaps you have had to discontinue an old project or revise a partnership. Change can be difficult and stakeholders in your community might have questions. The sample letters and talking points in the Communicating Our Change Toolkit can help you craft your communications.

Soroptimist Celebrating Success Awards

Congratulations to the 2019 Soroptimists Celebrating Success Awards federation finalists! Your innovative work to expand SIA’s work for women and girls is inspiring.

Soroptimist Club Grants

Read about the outstanding club projects that were awarded club grant funds for 2019-2020!

Friendship Grant

Thanks to the generosity of the clubs of SI/Aotearoa New Zealand South, a Grant of Friendship is being extended to a Soroptimist, two Soroptimists, or a Soroptimist and a traveling companion to enjoy up to 21 days of home hosting among clubs in the area in March of 2020. For more information, click here!

Development

Creating a Sustaining Impact

We are honored to announce in the last four months, over 100 Soroptimists have joined our monthly giving program, contributing an additional $58,000 each year to our Dream Programs! That brings us to nearly 700 members providing steady program support. Together, our generous monthly donors contribute more than one-quarter of the individual gifts given to our Dream Programs. We are grateful for the dedicated Soroptimists who provide ongoing support for women and girls by committing to a recurring gift!

To become a monthly donor visit www.Soroptimist.com/monthly.html or contact our Fund Development Assistant, Danielle, at (215) 893-9000.

Are You Active?

The highly anticipated Laurel Society biennial event will take place on July 24^th2020 at SIA’s 46^thBiennial Convention in Bellevue, Washington. We are excited to celebrate our generous and committed Laurel Society members! Our Soroptimist committee members have made this an incredible event you don’t want to miss.

How to be sure you’re on the invitation list? Stay active … this includes Laurel Society members who:

• Have reached Attaché ($1,000) level between September 1, 2018 and July 24, 2020.
• Have reached Attaché or above prior to September 1, 2018 and have remained active by giving $500 or more between September 1, 2018 and July 24, 2020.

More details to come! Please be sure to check back as space at the Laurel Society event is limited. We look forward to seeing you in Bellevue!

Membership

Diamond Campaign Winners

Congratulations to our top performers during Phase 1 of our Diamond Campaign: Shining our Way to the Second Century! Check out our 2018-2019 Diamond Clubs here and give these 174 clubs that met all three of our campaign goals a big cheer!

As Phase 2 is now underway, we hope your club is planning for a great year. Will you meet all 3 of our Phase 2 Goals to be spotlighted among the Diamond Clubs at this time next year? Check out the campaign webpage for more information and resources to support your membership growth efforts.

Leadership Tip: Inspire the Next Generation

In today’s world, women need to lift each other up to thrive, to empower one another and to dare to lead by being brave in the face of fear. Check out these tips from Angela Kambouris to see how you can help guide the next generation of women today!” 

Looking for New Members?

Of course you are! Recruiting new members is always on the list when it comes to club activities. SIA provides a variety of publicity tools to help clubs attract new members—including customizable flyers, a brochure and recruitment cards. Clubs can also use this newly updated and customizable member recruitment news release to invite prospective members to an information session about what your club does in the community; to participate in a club project; or to attend a club meeting. Simply fill in the specifics and send it to your local media!

LYD.org

Are you in touch with your inner “girl power”? This popular phrase means we stand up for one another and also stand up for the people who don’t have the same privileges we do. Read more about supporting the women and girls in your life here.

SI

100th Anniversary Celebration

Did you know that October 2021 marks Soroptimist’s 100^th anniversary? We will gather at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel, October 1-3 to celebrate this auspicious event. More details to follow and be sure to save the date now!

Congratulations Sharon!

SIA’s very own Sharon Fisher of SI/The Langleys, BC (Western Canada Region) will be the first Canadian president of Soroptimist International in more than 50 years!

Sharon doesn’t officially take office until January 2020, but there was a change of insignia ceremony that took place at the 21st SI Convention in Kuala Lumpur last month. Read an article highlighting Sharon’s accomplishment!

SIGBI Conference

SI Great Britain & Ireland invites you to attend their conference, October 24-26, 2019, in Bournemouth, UK. The theme, “Think On It” focuses on our own wellbeing and the mental health of women and girls. Visit the conference website to register and plan your trip. Please note: Members from federations outside of SIGBI who register as an individual (i.e. not accompanying a Soroptimist should complete the Non-Soroptimists Registration form. Closing date for registrations is September 30.

SIA

2019 SIA Recognition Banquet!

Tickets are still available for the SIA Recognition Banquet. Join us in beautiful Montreal, Canada, on June 22 to celebrate our accomplishments, and our outgoing and incoming leadership. Click here to plan your trip today. Don’t miss the fun!

Celebrating Success Reminder

Has your club participated in something extraordinary in the last club year with your program, public awareness, fundraising, or membership efforts? If so, be sure to enter the Soroptimists Celebrating Success Awards. Remember, club entries are due to region chairs by July 1.

Soroptimist Store

New! Soroptimist Bell Necklace
Proudly display the Soroptimist “S” logo with this gorgeous gold and silver bell necklace (item #114). The gold-plated chain is 24″ and includes a lobster claw clasp. This necklace is perfect for every occasion and is sure to make a statement!

New Products

You asked for it and we will deliver. Beginning in September, the Soroptimist Store will feature many new and exciting products for both you and your club. Stay tuned for more details!

Program

Live Your Dream Awards

We had the honor of working with this special group of women who served as judges for our Live Your Dream Awards. They had the difficult task of choosing the top candidates for our finalist recipients. A special thank you to each of these women for their time and hard work! Stay tuned for more information about this year’s finalists.

Pictured from left to right are:
Elizabeth Grimaldi, Executive Director, Fleisher Art Memorial; Becky Chan, Senior UX Designer, Clarivate Analytics; Alexa Salas, Program Supervisor, Puentes de Salud; Loraine Ballard Morrill, Director News & Community Affairs, Iheart Radio.

Live Your Dream Award Application Portal Update

The application portal used by clubs and applicants in North America will be open for applications on August 1, 2019. Clubs should begin their recruitment process as early as possible but communicate with applicants they can begin applying on August 1.

Take One Step

Through the Live Your Dream Awards, SIA reaches tens of thousands of women across our 21 countries and territories. But more can be done to further increase the quality of change in the lives of award recipients, and improve the standard of living for these women and their families. Consult the Live Your Dream AwardsToolkit for tips on providing support beyond the cash award.

Development

Double Your Impact

Corporate matching gift programs are a great way to double your contribution and maximize the impact of your gift. Not to mention, each match is applied to your Laurel Society recognition! Be sure to check with your employer’s human resources department to determine if your company offers a matching gift program. If your employer requires that a form be completed by SIA, please email it to siahq@soroptimist.org or mail to: Soroptimist International of the Americas, 1709 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-6103. Our tax ID/EIN is 23-2154856

Updated Forms

We are thankful for your generous support! Your contributions play a vital role in supporting the thousands of women and girls who benefit from our global Dream Programs. If participating in individual giving, please be sure to use these updated forms when mailing in your contributions:

Laurel Society—Download the Laurel Society Enrollment Form
Laurel Legacy—Download the Laurel Legacy Enrollment Form
Monthly Giving—Download the Monthly Giving Enrollment Form

Membership

Volunteering … It’s Good for You!

Research shows that individuals who spend significant time dedicated to volunteer activities experience improved mental and physical health outcomes such as lower mortality rates and higher life satisfaction! So yes … volunteering is good for you! Check out this resource for more information about the benefits of joining Soroptimist. 

Mentoring for the Future

All good leaders know there is a time when they will step back from their duties and pass the baton to their successor. Great leaders, however, recognize the importance of preparing their successor over the course of their own leadership term to ensure a successful transition and leave their club or region in good hands. Read this leadership tip for a few simple guidelines on mentoring.

Public Awareness

Promote Your New Club

We are excited to see so many new club charters. Your efforts really help strengthen our membership base and ensure the future of Soroptimist! Now’s the time to let your community know who you are. Check out these tips on how to promote your new club.

Updated Branding and Style Guide

Want to increase brand awareness for SIA and your club? Consistency is the key! This newly updated guide delivers SIA standards for writing and design, ensuring our messaging and visual identity are consistent at all levels of SIA. Please review and share it with new members too!

LYD.org

Invest!

Learning how to manage money is an important life skill, especially for women. When you’re consistently earning more than you’re spending, it’s time to seriously consider investing. Make your money work for you and find out more about making the decision to invest!

SI

UN Civil Society Conference

Soroptimist International invites you attend the 68^th United Nations Civil Society Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, August 26-28. Past SIA President Dawn Marie Lemonds, SI President-elect Sharon Fisher, and SI Director of Advocacy Beverly Bucur will lead the Soroptimist delegation.

Convention

It’s not too late to plan to attend SI’s 21st International Convention, July 18-21, 2019, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The theme is “Soroptimists Enable a Sustainable World—Global Connections, Empowered Women.” This convention will offer an interesting and enlightening program, including keynote speakers, interactive workshops and informative presentations. Click here for additional information. Please note, a conference interpreter for SI general sessions will be provided for each language group with 30 or more attendees.

SIGBI Conference

SI Great Britain & Ireland invites you to attend their conference, October 24-26, 2019, in Bournemouth, UK. The theme, “Think On It” focuses on our own wellbeing and the mental health of women and girls. Click here to register and plan your trip. Please note: Members from federations outside of SIGBI who register as an individual (i.e. not accompanying a Soroptimist should complete the Non-Soroptimists Registration form. Closing date for registrations is September 30.

 

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Soroptimist Summary Archives

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December/January 2019
February 2019
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May 2019

SIA

2019 SIA Recognition Banquet!

Registration for the 2019 SIA Recognition Banquet is now open! Join Soroptimists from all over the world for a fabulous evening to celebrate our accomplishments and our leaders! Click here for more information to plan your trip to beautiful Montreal!

New SIA Staff

Meet SIA’s newest staff member, Erica Cheslock. She joins SIA as director of donor relations. In this role, Erica will develop and manage the major gifts program to support our Soroptimist Dream Programs: The Live Your Dream Awards and Dream It, Be It. Read more about Erica here! You can reach Erica at erica@soroptimist.org. Please, welcome her aboard!

Soroptimist Store

Our newest pin (item #116) features a Sombrero design with smooth contrasting textures of gold color and our signature Soroptimist blue. Measuring 1 1/2 inches across and featuring a safety clasp backing, it is the perfect pin to showcase your Soroptimist pride.

Program

Live Your Dream Awards

We are excited to share a new resource! You’ve selected a Live Your Dream Award recipient, and now it’s time to celebrate. Follow these tips to make the event a memorable experience for everyone.

Dream It, Be It

Don’t forget to submit your project and evaluation information to the online form within one month of your Dream It, Be It project.

Big Goal

As we prepare to substantially increase the number of women and girls we serve through the Dream Programs, communicating with our community partners is a critical step. Perhaps your club has participated in Working as One, has used the Club Planning Tool and has decided to make some changes in your club’s focus.

Maybe your club has decided to stop supporting a local organization that you’ve collaborated with for years, and want to make sure they are prepared and understand why you are making this change. Use this communication packet as an aid in communicating these difficult, but necessary club transitions.

During our convention in Yokohama, Japan, we used a SOAR model to focus on our strengths, opportunities, aspirations and results. We engaged participants in small group discussions about our 2021-2031 Big Goal: Invest in the Dreams of Half a Million Women and Girls Through Access To Education. Check out the results here!

Development

International Women’s Day 2019

March 8 is International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women—while also making a call to action for accelerating gender balance.

Soroptimist’s global Dream Programs are dedicated to helping women and girls achieve economic empowerment through education—the key to gender equality, which has yet to be achieved anywhere in the world.

Make a gift today at http://bit.ly/2019-IWD to support our global Dream Programs because together we can provide so much more access to education for women and girls and accelerate gender equality.

Take One Step

Your club is a source of light—giving both the gift of concrete change in a woman’s life, and hope to young girls. That light could be money for a woman’s electric bill, so she can study at night, thanks to the Live Your Dream Awards. Or it might be a grant to a club, so they can mentor adolescent girls using the Dream It, Be Itcurriculum.

Support our global Dream Programs by making at least a 10% contribution of locally raised funds by May 31, 2019and your club will earn a special seal on your recognition certificate! By supporting women across the globe, your club can illuminate the path for women and girls and help them achieve their dreams.

10 Reasons to Give at Least 10%!

Membership

All About Us

If you or someone else in your club has been called upon to talk about Soroptimist, check out the SIA – About Us Presentation. This resource gives general information about SIA, our Dream Programs, and spotlights local Soroptimist club projects around the world. It’s a great starting point for new member orientations, and can be used to introduce Soroptimist to potential members and other groups in your community.

Meaningful Connections

Looking for ways to connect on a deeper level with your fellow club members? Check out this blog by Mary Jo Asmus, PCC, president, Aspire Collaborative Services LLC, about building better relationships through our interactions. Follow this advice to build the bonds with your fellow club members and create a healthy club atmosphere today!

Public Awareness

New Social Media Profile Images

Does your club need to spruce up its social media pages with a new look? To match our updated website and branding, SIA has designed new banner images and profile pictures for clubs to use on social media. Whether your club is on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube or Instagram, these images match the required size specifications for each platform. Download them from the Recognition and Branding page under Social Media Materials!

S Logo

The December 2019 deadline is approaching for all clubs and regions to transition to solely using SIA’s S logo as your visual identifier. For more information, go here.

LYD.org

Today, four out of every 10 businesses in America are owned by women, numbering more than 12 million, representing about 39% of all U.S. businesses. Curious about their successes and challenges? Read more here and also find out the benefits of women-owned businesses and how to support them.

SI

Convention

Plan to attend SI’s 21st International Convention, July 18-21, 2019, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. With its “Soroptimists Enable a Sustainable World—Global Connections, Empowered Women” theme, the convention will offer an interesting and enlightening program, including keynote speakers, interactive workshops and informative presentations. Click here for additional information.

President’s Appeal

Stay up-to-date on the SI President’s “Women, Water & Leadership” Appeal. SIA has donated over $162,000 since the appeal began in September 2017. You can make a difference. To donate, submit this form to Soroptimist Headquarters. (Be sure to select “SI: December 10th/President’s Appeal” under “Club/Region Contributions.”)