Making a Difference Around the World and in our Community
For almost 90 years, Soroptimist International of the Americas has been improving the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. Soroptimist programs effect fundamental change for women through economic empowerment, ending violence, and advancing gender equity. Your contribution supports Soroptimist programs—such as the Women’s Opportunity Awards—that help women to pursue their dreams.
International Projects
Every four years, Soroptimist International launches a major international project in partnership with a charity, NGO or United Nations agency. Each project is designed to be self-sustaining by the end of SI’s four-year commitment. Soroptimist members around the world join forces to give active support to the chosen project and in doing so, have improved the lives of many thousands of women and children across the globe.
Each Federation takes it in turn to propose an international project. Our current project was initiated by Soroptimist International of Great Britain & Ireland.
Soroptimist International Quadrennial Project 2011-2015
Our current Quadrennial Project, launched at Convention in July 2011, will focus on: improving the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment or enabling opportunities .
Local Projects in York Region
SI York Region is dedicated to improving the lives of the women and girls of York Region with local projects. Areas of focus include mental and physical health, domestic and sexual assault and economic and social development.
Community Awards for Women
SI York Region distributes community awards to women each year. Many of the women chosen have triumphed over daunting challenges. The awards help our recipients to cultivate new skills, further their education and regain independence.
Women’s Opportunity Award
This monetary award assists women to improve their education, skills and employment prospects. Eligible applicants must be women who provide the primary financial support for their families and who are enrolled in or have been accepted to a vocational/skills training program or an undergraduate degree program.
Violet Richardson Award
This monetary award recognizes a female student’s contribution in volunteering with an organization in the community.
Ruby Award
This annual award recognizes a special woman in our community who has made a significant contribution to the lives of women or girls.
Applications for awards are available in October of each year. They are available on this website.
Applications are reviewed by a panel of community judges. All award winners are recognized at our annual March recognition banquet.
