Six members of the club joined members of SI HighWycombe to enjoy their Diamond Anniversary celebrations at the Old Bell in Hurley.  The special lunch was held in the Old Malthouse which has a charming garden which was enjoyed for pre lunch Pimms in the sunshine.  It was a great opportunity to meet up with old friends from around the Region and be entertained by  delightful piano music.  The speaker gave a fascinating talk about the many women who have worked in the secret services during the two world wars.

Julie has 25 years grassroots experience working with faith communities across the UK.  She has developed a diverse network across all sectors and has been responsible for initiating numerous projects and campaigns. Her passion is engaging with people from all backgrounds and she has a particular interest in working with women in faith communities.  Julie explained how she converted to being a Muslim when she met and married.  She now has four children and a busy family life.

At the AGM held on 17th April, Irene Brooks was welcomed as the President for 2024-25.  Outgoing President Jean Sinclair was thanked for her efforts during her year in office and presented with a beautiful orchid.  During the Business Meeting it was agreed to consider holding some meetings in member’s homes and to reinstate a printed programme for the year.

Dedworth Windsor Tesco book appeal for local schools. Club members donated 90 books to celebrate Federations 90th birthday. They were presented to the Tesco Community Champion, Jon Davey, on Saturday 2nd March 2024. Local schools will pick the books they want with any residual ones going to the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice. Jackie Paling and club members Estlyn, Sally and Janette display some of the books.

Our speaker for the meeting on 21st February was Annette Maudsley of SI Liverpool.  Annette gave a fascinating presentation concerning her work with Stop the Traffik, her role as Safeguarding Officer for SIGBI and her working life within Border Control at London Heathrow Airport.  Annette showed great passion for her work but also compassion regarding the victims of abuse and the need to be permanently alert to all the issues surrounding modern day slavery.  The photo shows President Jean Sinclair with Annette

On Wednesday Liz and Jackie attended a Community Networking Event in Maidenhead organised by Maidenhead Bridge Rotary Club. They told several members about Soroptimism and our Club and also put leaflets in the goodie bags that were given out.

On Wednesday the club had its first meeting at the Spencer Denny Centre which is the home of Age Concern Windsor.  The meeting went well and it was agreed that this was a pleasant new venue.  One great advantage is a huge table so that everyone can sit together and communicate and also see the large screen which makes Zoom very acceptable. Our speaker (via Zoom) was Jane Walker who is truly remarkable.  21 years ago she was working for News International and uncertain as to whether her future lay in the print media industry.  She took some time out and travelled to the Philippines to consider her options.  She had heard about people living on rubbish dumps so asked a taxi driver to take her to one.  In fact she went to one of the largest near to Manila and she was stunned and

Club members took part in the Age Concern Windsor Fete on 15th July.  There were a variety of stalls selling plants and flowers, soft toys, books, bric-a-brac, and cakes and several others.  There were also games and a raffle.  Although the sudden downpours undoubtedly lowered the number of visitors, over £500 was raised. The next Tuesday club will be held on 1st August when members will again be volunteering to help with serving lunches and chatting to the clients. On Sunday 23rd July club members set up their stall at Maidenhead Festival amongst 60 other organisations.  Jewelry and candles were on sale together with raffle tickets.  There was a display relating to the club’s activities and plenty of leaflets available for prospective members.