MARION — Organizers of a new Soroptimist club announced they will host two informational meetings in January.
The meetings are open to women in Marion and other surrounding counties, such as Crawford, Richland, Morrow, Hardin and Wyandot.
The first is Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. and the second is Jan. 25 at 1:30 p.m., both at the Marion Public Library. The meetings are open to women who are looking for opportunities to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment.
The club will be part of Soroptimist International of the Americas, a global volunteer organization for women with nearly 30,000 members in 21 countries and territories.
Soroptimists volunteer their talents and energy to help women and girls live their dreams every day by giving them the resources to create positive change—for themselves, their families and their communities.
The Soroptimist mission is exemplified by its major project, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women. Each year, Soroptimist gives almost $2.5 million to women who need to improve their job skills through education and training. Most are single moms, and many are domestic violence survivors.
The club is being organized by Michelle Fouts and Lisa Kester, who said members of the new club will carry out Soroptimist’s Dream Programs, including the Live Your Dream Award and Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls, in the local community.
“Our club will offer opportunities to participate in programs that change lives, as well as to develop lifelong friendships and a network of global connections,” Fouts said. “The name, Soroptimist, means ‘best for women,’ and that’s what our club will strive to achieve.”