About Us

Women at their best, working to help other women to be their best

Soroptimist was formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join service organizations. Our name, loosely translated from the Latin, means Best for Women. Today, we have about 160,000 members and supporters in 21 countries and territories. Soroptimist International of the Americas is one of five federations that make up Soroptimist International, which has clubs in more than 120 countries throughout the world.

Our Team

Co-Presidents
Cathy Brown Karen Koch

Secretary
Marie Newton

Treasurers
Janice Heronma Brenda Langford

Membership Directors
Rose Mary Jameson Christine Duranceau

Service Director
Mary Kay Berlier

Public Awareness Directors
Becky Goebel Susan Browne Rosenberg

Fundraising Directors
Jacquie Gunning Donna Williams Leanna Petitt

Past President Director
Doris Churry

Golden West Region

My theme for the 2020/2022 Soroptimist Golden West Region biennium is “A Leap of Faith”…because that is what we do as Soroptimists every, single day! We put our time, talents and treasure out there on behalf of the women and girls we serve so they may overcome the obstacles to training and education that they so desperately need in order to reach their full potential and live their dreams. I am a firm believer in educating women in order to bring the family unit as well as the marginalized communities themselves, out of poverty and oppression.

Laurie Moses, Governor
Golden West Region

Margaret Henderson, Past Governor
Golden West Region

Penny Babb, President
Soroptimist International of the Americas

Soroptimist International of the Americas

Soroptimist International of the Americas has about 1,300 clubs in 21 countries and territories who work to economically empower women and girls. Soroptimist clubs receive assistance in their volunteer efforts by participating locally in programs developed and sponsored by the Soroptimist organization.

Our Impact

Our years of experience working with women and girls has taught us that education is the key to unlocking economic empowerment of the world’s women and girls. When women and girls are educated, they have opportunity, choice and power to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families.

Our Core Values

Gender Equality

Women and girls live free from discrimination

Empowerment

Women and girls are free to act in their own best interest

Education

Women and girls deserve to lead full and productive lives through access to education

Diversity & Fellowship

Women from varied backgrounds and perspectives work together to improve the lives of women and girls.