Service projects in 2015 and 2016 focused on jr. high age girls in our community.   THE EMPOWERMENT PROJECT documentary film is about the incredible journey of 5 young female filmmakers driving more than 7,000 miles across America, from Los Angeles to New York over the course of 30 days, interviewing 17 positive and powerful women leaders across a variety of lifestyles and industries.

This film was presented in an assembly style event at Chico Jr High, Marsh Jr. High and Bidwell Jr High to inspire the girls to dream big and stay on track in school to reach those career dreams. A final screening was open to the public.

In 2015 we partnered with Girls on the Run of the North Valley Director, Claire Johnson, who helped us gain support from the school administration to hold the event during school hours on campus. Twelve local career women (many of them Soroptimist members) were recruited to meet the girls and visit with them about their careers. We developed a booklet with  information about each of the career women and other helpful hints to encourage the girls to find a path to their career goals.

Each girl received the booklet, coupons, and other remembrance items about Soroptimist International.  Over 800 girls watched the film and learned that Soroptimist Int’l is here to support them through the upcoming Dream it ~Be it program that will provide career support and scholarships in high school.