Regional News Feature – July 2025
Clubs across SI Wales South have marked the International Day of Hope in a variety of creative, practical, and heartfelt ways—demonstrating once again how Soroptimists bring hope into action within their communities. Here’s how our clubs have taken part:
SI Cwmbran – Supporting Local Autism Charity, Hope GB
SI Cwmbran has chosen to mark the SIGBI International Day of Hope by supporting Hope GB, a peer-to-peer listening service in Torfaen for people affected by autism.
Hope GB supports parents and carers of young people aged 14 to 30, offering weekly sessions where autistic young adults can enjoy board games, cooking, sensory activities, and supported trips. In alignment with SIGBI’s objective of advancing equality and diversity, the club hopes to provide the group with hand-knitted twiddle muffs and comfort teddies.
SI Minerva – Launching “12 Months of Hope”
Rather than focusing on a single day, SI Minerva has launched a year-long campaign titled “12 Months of Hope.” Each month, the club will explore a different aspect of hope linked to Soroptimist values and programme objectives.
From quotes and facts to creative challenges and small public actions, the initiative aims to inspire continued reflection and engagement—making a sustained contribution to all six SIGBI charitable objectives throughout the year.
SI Barry – Quietly Continuing Hope-Filled Work
SI Barry has chosen not to organise a specific event for the Day of Hope. Instead, the Executive reaffirmed the club’s commitment to its ongoing initiatives—each embodying hope for a better future and improved standards of living in their community.
SI Haverfordwest – A ‘Litter Pic-Nic’ for a Cleaner Future
SI Haverfordwest is planning a Litter Pic-Nic the weekend after the Day of Hope. Members will gather at Broad Haven beach to remove litter and washed-up debris, hoping to leave the coastline cleaner than they found it.
Wearing Soroptimist hi-vis jackets, members aim to raise awareness, spark curiosity, and start conversations about who Soroptimists are and what they do. Data collected will be submitted to the Marine Conservation Society, contributing to national records and ongoing marine conservation efforts. The day will conclude with a friendly picnic and a shared hope for a healthier planet.
SI Milford Haven – Braving the Heat for a Good Cause
SI Milford Haven members braved the summer heat to run a fundraising tombola at Neyland Carnival. Proceeds will go to their charity of the year, Pembrokeshire Baby Bank, which supports families in need across the county with newborn baby bundles and essential equipment.
This vital, referral-only service is delivered via Health Visitors, Midwives, District Nurses and Social Workers. Entirely volunteer-run, the Baby Bank offers much-needed practical support—and hope—to young families facing difficult circumstances.
SI Port Talbot – Reflecting on the UN International Day of Hope
SI Port Talbot marked the UN International Day of Hope on 12 July with a Circle of Hope gathering, beginning with the lighting of a Candle of Peace. Members paused to reflect on how hope can turn optimism into action, even in the most challenging times.
Their Circle of Hope extended to include members of their Ukrainian Friendship Group at a Friday coffee morning. Together, they shared thoughts and hopes for peace and a better future amidst the ongoing conflict.
Drawing on the UN Declaration, the club produced and shared a leaflet to raise awareness of the Day of Hope. It was circulated among members, on social media, and sent to friendship links in Cannock and Hansestadt Hamburg.
Together, these activities demonstrate the many ways in which Soroptimists across Wales South are keeping hope alive—whether through practical support, shared reflection, environmental care, or sustained community engagement.
#DayOfHope #SoroptimistsInAction #SIWS
Projects are listed in the order they were received.