Soroptimist International of Whittier (SIW) raises funds to provide scholarships, grants, mentorships, and programs to help women and girls in the greater Whittier area achieve economic empowerment.
Some of these programs such as Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be It are reflected throughout Soroptimist International of the Americas.
Others are unique to the Whittier Club, including the Ruth White Scholarship, Loise Neece Awards for high school students selected by school counselors, Soroptimist Village support, and Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) support at PIH Health.
In addition, SIW partners with Río Hondo College and Whittier Union High School District to help produce an annual Women’s History Conference; supports the Women’s and Children’s Crisis Shelter, and sponsors an S Club for high school girls who provide volunteer service to the community.
The Live Your Dream Award gives women a chance to make a better life for themselves and their families through increased access to education and better career opportunities – a chance they have not previously had, or may never otherwise have. Live Your Dream Award applicants have faced economic and social barriers and personal hardships that have prevented them from pursuing and achieving their education and professional goals – until now.
The Live Your Dream Award addresses economic needs and makes a difference in a practical way; we know that it also affects women in a personal way. Women who have won the award report an increase in self-confidence and self-esteem and pride at being recognized for having the courage to change their lives. This program is the cornerstone of our efforts to increase public awareness and international name recognition for Soroptimist.
Soroptimist Village
SIW is one of nine (9) Soroptimist Clubs partnering to operate Soroptimist Village, a low-income senior residential community in the City of Norwalk. The community located at 12657 Foster Rd Norwalk, CA comprises 52 units and one-bedroom garden apartment. Rent is partially subsidized by the City of Norwalk. Our Club participates in the governing board and helps produce resident activities including holiday and birthday parties.
Lois Neece Award
Named after former SIW President Lois Neece, this award is given to high school students who have persevered and overcome obstacles in their lives. Nominations are submitted every year and awardees are honored at an award ceremony.
Sexual Assault Response Team (SART)
Partnering with the Whittier Police Department and PIH Health Whittier Hospital, SIW helped establish a safe, private room to provide exams, counseling, and support to sexual assault victims. SIW equips the room with clothing kits so that survivors can leave clothing behind as evidence.
STOP
Soroptimist Teen Outreach Program (STOP). This project supports prevention of teen pregnancy.
S-Club
S-Clubs are clubs for High School students who want to volunteer to serve their community. This club is sponsored by SIW and inspires students to get involved and work to improve the lives of women and girls through meaningful service projects. Together we cooperate with teachers and staff at the school to create a positive experience. The “S” club experience inspires students to take on leadership roles. Members of both the S-Club and SIW meet, exchange ideas and participate in local projects together.
Ruth White Memorial
Mentoring Scholarships
Women’s History Month Conference
Dream It Be It
include information about Dream It, Be It. The SIA website does a great job promoting this program (see link below). Maybe you can use their link and information.
https://www.soroptimist.org/our-work/dream-it-be-it/index.html