South Lancashire’s Soroptimists turned out in force for the Region’s new members and awards lunch.
The event is an ideal opportunity for ‘newbies’ to strike up acquaintances in other clubs, and to listen to an address by a key member of the organisation. Held every two years, the event also attracts many longstanding Soroptimists.
Peace, equality, justice – these are the basics of society, according to Barbara Dixon, Programme Director for Soroptimist International, GB and Ireland (SIGBI). As the keynote speaker, Barbara pulled urged club members to design projects that directly support communities, local and global. Projects must echo the principles of Soroptimist International (SI) – education, empowerment and enablement of women and girls.
Barbara also reiterated the absolute necessity of reporting club projects to SIGBI and thence to SI. Our representatives at the United Nations call on the data submitted – projects are evidence of what our organisation achieves.
The presentation of the Region’s awards was the finale to the afternoon. The winners of the Programme Action and bowling trophies had already been announced at the regional meeting. However, recipients were once again able to bask in their glory.
It was a different matter, however, with the President’s Rose Bowl – the result was ‘under wraps’.
SI South Lancashire’s President, Margaret Molyneux had set clubs a challenge linked to her theme for the year: Stop-Look-Listen. Clubs could choose one activity in the year which had community involvement and promoted the Soroptimist ‘brand’. A succinct write-up would form each club’s entry.
The impartial judges were Kay Richmond and Glenys Hunt, Chair and Vice Chair of UKPAC (UK Programme Action Committee). After much deliberation the judges had agreed a winner: SI Ramsbottom, for their Young Achiever’s Award. Denise Baldwin and Barbara Hulmes received the trophy on behalf of the club, and were clearly delighted with the achievement.
The lunch was organised by Regional Membership Officer Pat Williams. “The day went well,” she said, “and conversations never flagged. Our newer members seem to have entered into the spirit of this friendly, relaxed event.
“I’m sure, too, they have taken Barbara Dixon’s message to heart; and this will help them as they take an active part in their clubs’ project work.”
