Stepping into the role of President of Soroptimist St Helens feels both exciting and genuinely meaningful. Our club has always been rooted in one simple idea: when women and girls are supported, encouraged, and given opportunities to thrive, whole communities become stronger. That belief is what brought me to the Soroptimists five years ago, and it’s what inspires me now as I take on this new chapter.
Before looking ahead, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to President Linda. She has led our club with warmth, dedication, and tireless commitment over the past three years. Her passion, especially for supporting families affected by organ donation, the Ukraine war or autism, has made a real and lasting difference. We’re incredibly grateful for everything she’s done and the strong foundation she leaves for us to build on.
A lot of people still ask, “So… what exactly is a Soroptimist?” At its core, Soroptimists are a global movement of women standing up for other women and girls. Across the UK and Ireland, Soroptimists work on projects that tackle issues like women’s health, gender-based violence, education, and equality. Internationally, Soroptimists have a seat at the United Nations and deliver grassroots projects that change lives in communities around the world. Being part of this Global network means that what we do here in St Helens connects to something much bigger, a worldwide effort to create a fairer, safer, more equal future for women and girls.
Here in St Helens, that mission comes to life in very local, very real ways. We support women and girls through community projects, awareness campaigns, partnerships with local organisations, and activities that build confidence, wellbeing, and opportunity. Sometimes it’s fundraising, sometimes it’s hands-on support, sometimes it’s simply being there for someone who needs to know they’re not alone. Every action, big or small, adds up to something meaningful and powerful.
As I look ahead, I want us to keep that spirit at the heart of everything we do. I’d love to see us grow our connections, welcome new members, and continue creating spaces where women feel supported, inspired, and part of something positive. Most of all, I want every woman who crosses our path to feel the warmth, friendship, and purpose that makes our club so special.
If you’re curious about what we do, want to get involved, or are looking for a community of women who care deeply about making a difference, we’d love to welcome you. Supporting the women and girls of St Helens is a team effort, and there’s always room for one more voice at the table.
In friendship
Nicola Parkinson
Club President, Soroptimist St Helens
Want to join our club or find out more?
We meet every 2nd Monday of the month at Chrysalis Centre for Change, The Beacon Center, College Road, St Helens, WA10 1TF. Click here for directions
Email us at: sisthelens@gmail.com
Follow us on: Facebook: Soroptimist St Helens | Instagram: @sthelens_soroptimist | X: @SIStHelens