Hello, my name is Laurene Howell, the current president of Soroptimist International of Portland for the fiscal year 2003-2004. Soroptimist International was founded in 1921 and our members can be found in 112 countries. It is the largest classified service organization for executive and professional business people in the world today.

The word soroptimist does mean “the best for women.” Although our primary focus is on issues and needs pertaining to women, we also are involved in many projects that include anyone in need. Our Portland club was chartered in 1926. Throughout the intervening years, our members have been serving the local and international community.

We continue to have many active service projects such as mentoring young people who need guidance while pursuing additional education after high school. We are also involved with Loaves & Fishes and library outreach services. Please look at the portion of our web site marked Community Programs for additional information about ongoing service projects.

In addition, our club sponsors several recognition and monetary awards. For instance, each year we recognize an outstanding young woman in high school who is involved in community volunteer activities. We also have a recognition and monetary award for one or more women who are the head of their household and are entering or returning to the work force. Please look at our Women’s Awards section for more information about this worthwhile project.

We sponsor several fundraisers each year to finance our activities for the community. We are a qualified 501 (c) 3 nonprofit corporation as well as a charitable trust. We have regular club meetings every month. On the first Thursday of each month (except July and August), we have a Program Meeting. In addition, we have a Board Meeting and Business Meeting each month. We are always looking for women to join our group. We do accept men as members too. Our current membership includes women of many interests and diverse backgrounds. My motto this year for our members is to do what you can when you can. If you would like information about membership, please use the “Contact Us” button.

It is our plan to continually update and expand the information on this web site so please visit us again.