Plymouth Soroptimists are part of a worldwide organisation of women volunteers, founded in 1921 to advance human rights and transform the lives of women and girls. Soroptimist International even has two representatives on the UN Council, giving us a meaningful voice on the world stage. With members in over a hundred countries, Soroptimist clubs work locally, nationally and internationally to educate, empower and enable opportunities for women and girls.
The Plymouth club was founded in 1930 by Dr Mabel Ramsay, and Nancy Astor – the first woman to take her seat as an MP – was an honorary member. Almost a century on, we are women from all walks of life and across a wide age range, united by our determination to make a difference. Being a Soroptimist is a great way to meet different people and make new friends!
Our focus is on ACTIVISM – lobbying Parliament and raising awareness of vital issues, and ACTION – serving our community, helping other women and partnering with other Plymouth organisations. For example: we give care boxes to care leavers; we run an annual pamper day where vulnerable women can get a haircut and some personal care; we have given away over £10,000 of period knickers; and every year we give bursaries to help young women in Plymouth complete their studies.
To achieve all that, we have many fundraising events in Plymouth throughout the year. Every penny donated or raised from public events goes directly to the projects we support. All of our club members are unpaid volunteers and we personally fund our running costs. If you would like to donate to our project funds, please click here to pay by card.
Can you spare two Wednesday evenings a month?
On the first Wednesday evening of most months, we have a club meeting to manage our projects, fundraising and events. Then on the third Wednesday we have a sociable supper meeting, usually with an interesting and inspirational guest speaker. We meet at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel on Millbay Road – just up from Plymouth Pavilions. To find out more, email info@plymsorop.org.uk, or ring our club secretary on 01752 774401 for an informal chat.
What does ‘Soroptimist’ mean?
The name comes from the Latin words ‘soror’ meaning sister and ‘optima’ meaning best – the best for women. We aim to be the best for women by following our “three Es” of Enabling, Empowering and Educating women and girls all over the world. Join us and help #StandupforWomen.