Soroptimist International is a worldwide volunteer service organization for business and professional women, working to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world.

Soroptimist International strives to be a global voice for women through awareness, advocacy and action with almost 95,000 members in nearly 120 countries. The organization, which was founded in 1921 in Oakland, California, is committed to serving local, national and international communities, and participating actively in decision-making at all levels of society.

The word Soroptimist is coined from the Latin words soror and optima, and loosely translated as "best for women."

VISION

Be the voluntary service organization chosen by all business and professional women committed to improving the lives of women and girls.

We will share our time, talents and financial resources to enrich our communities. Together, we will:

• improve the lives of women and girls
• help women achieve economic and political equality
• serve as a global voice for women
• provide outstanding leadership development opportunities for women
• enhance world peace and understanding

MISSION AND CORE PURPOSE

To improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.

CORE VALUES

Soroptimist International of the Americas is committed to:

• international goodwill and understanding
• volunteer action
• leadership development
• fellowship and diversity

STRATEGIC OUTCOMES

1. Membership Soroptimist will be a thriving, dynamic, progressive and relevant organization with members committed to the mission of improving the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world.

2. Program Soroptimist's programs and efforts to raise awareness of women's issues will enable women and girls to lead better lives.

3. Fundraising Sufficient funds will exist for Soroptimist to accomplish its programmatic goals.

4. Public Awareness The world will know about Soroptimist and its efforts to improve the lives of women and girls.

What is a Soroptimist?

Soroptimist is an international organization of business and professional women united through volunteer efforts to enable other women and girls to live their dreams, take control of their lives, and live according to their own values.

Desert Coast Region currently has 43 clubs located in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Imperial Counties in California and in Yuma County, Arizona (see map). Myra Lau Governor 2010-2012 Desert Coast Region Soroptimist International of the Americas