What Is A Soroptimist?

Soroptimist is a global organization economically empowering women and girls through access to education. 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.  Soroptimist International of Long Beach Island was the first women’s service club sponsored by the Soroptimist Club of Philadelphia in 1955. Our charter was granted on March 10, 1956, and our first president was Adelaide Kapler.

We are a volunteer organization benefiting women and girls through our Dream Programs and we have helped more than 65,000 women and girls reach their goals. We are focused on economically empowering women and girls because it is at the heart of lifting up society as a whole. 

Today Soroptimist International of the Americas has about 160,000 members in 21 countries and territories, and is one of four federations of Soroptimist International which has clubs in more than 120 countries throughout the world.

Download the information sheet with more details about what we do, programs and events that we hold, and how we support area girls and women.

To join our group or learn more about Soroptimist International Long Beach Island, please email silongbeachisland@soroptimist.org