Frequently Asked Questions
What is Soroptimist?
Soroptimist is an international organization for business and professional women who provide volunteer service to their communities. Soroptimist's mission is to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.What does the word "Soroptimist" mean?
Loosely translated from Latin, Soroptimist is a coined term meaning "best for women."When was Soroptimist formed?
The first Soroptimist Club was formed in 1921 by a group of 80 women in Oakland, Alameda County, California, USA.How can women join Soroptimist?
If you would like to become a member of Soroptimist International of Cook Inlet, please contact our Membership Coordinator Alison Kear at: soroptimistcookinlet@yahoo.com or call 339-4407.Why does Soroptimist focus on women and girls?
Soroptimist was formed because in 1921 women who were interested in volunteer service 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 programs does Soroptimist offer?
Soroptimist offers several programs that improve the lives of women and girls. Major programs include the Women's Opportunity Awards, Hands On Service Projects, the Violet Richardson Award, the Soroptimist Cook Inlet Service Awards, and the Making a Difference for Women Award. In addition to participating in programs offered by the organization, local clubs work on community-based projects that benefit women and girls.
How are Soroptimist programs funded?
Soroptimist programs are funded by member dues & assessments, fundraising activities and various other contributions. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Soroptimist also depends on outside contributions from people who support the Soroptimist mission.How can I contribute to Soroptimist?
To contribute to programs that significantly help women and girls to improve their lives, download a donor form. Charitable gifts can also be sent to: Soroptimist International of Cook Inlet, P.O. Box 92764, Anchorage, Alaska 99509. Soroptimist International of Cook Inlet is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by United States law. Support for Soroptimist's fundraising activities also comes from corporate gifts and donations. These donations are specially acknowledged so that Soroptimist members will recognize the donor as a business supporting the Soroptimist mission of improving the lives of women and girls. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Alison Kear soroptimistcookinlet@yahoo.com or (907) 339-4407.How can women apply for a Women's Opportunity Award?
Women's Opportunity Awards applications are available on-line or from a local member of the SICI.How many members are in Soroptimist?
Soroptimist International has about 95,000 members. Soroptimist International of the Americas has about 45,000 members. Soroptimist International of Cook Inlet has about 50 members.How many countries are in Soroptimist?
Soroptimist International members reside in about 120 countries and territories throughout the world. Soroptimist International of the Americas' clubs are located in 19 countries and territories: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, United States and Venezuela.What is Soroptimist's relationship with the United Nations?
Soroptimist International has consultative 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 Soroptimist representatives can advocate for the Soroptimist mission of improving the lives of women and girls.