Soroptimist International of the Langleys
Soroptimist International of the Langleys
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What is Soroptimist?

We are a global volunteer organization of women working together in our local communities and around the world.

Soroptimist (noun)

 [suh-rop-tuh-mist]

1920–25; < Latin sor ( or ) sister + optimist


Loose translation: Best for women.

Meaning: A Soroptimist is a member of an international association of professional and executive businesswomen working to improve the lives of women and girls through community-focused programs.. 

Origin: California 1921. Now expanded to more than 120 countries. 

Soroptimists empower women and girls through education

Because educated women and girls are:

  • Less likely to live in poverty
  • Less vulnerable to sex traffickers
  • More likely to leave a domestic violence situation and not return
  • Able to raise stronger, healthier families

About Silangleys

Our Langley Chapter

Soroptimist International of the Langleys is a local club of Soroptimist International.

  • We are a group of women passionate about making a difference in the lives of women, locally, regionally and internationally.
  • Chartered in 1986, we proudly serve the City and Township of Langley, BC.
  • Our members are known for innovative projects, fun fundraising, and strong partnerships with local residents, businesses, and community leaders.

Statistics

  • In the City of Langley, females make up about 51.7% of the population.
  • In 2024, women aged 15+ earned 89 cents for every dollar earned by men.
  • Women spend 4 more hours caring for adults, 8 more hours caring for children on an average week.
  • Nearly one-in-two women in BC (48%) has experienced some form of intimate partner violence since age 15. 
  • Only 35% of women hold a STEM bachelor’s degree among Canadians aged 25 to 64.

Our Core Values

  •  Gender Equality: Women and girls live free from discrimination.
  • Empowerment: Women and girls are free to act in their own best interest.
  • Education: Women and girls deserve to lead full and productive lives through access to education.
  • Diversity & Fellowship: Women from varied backgrounds and perspectives work together to improve the lives of women and girls.

FAQ

 At Soroptimist, we work to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. 

Soroptimist International is a global, non-governmental organization with consultative status in the UN.

We are a global volunteer organization of women working together in our local communities and around the world, providing service in 120 countries. 

We administer several programs including education grants for women, volunteer opportunities, and campaigns against obstacles facing women, including sex trafficking and domestic violence. 

Soroptimists work on projects that support gender equality, economic independence, leadership development, and safe, healthy communities. Each club designs programs that respond to local needs while contributing to a global network of service and advocacy.


All women’s service clubs share a commitment to community, but each has its own focus and traditions. Soroptimist International is unique in its mission to improve the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment, and opportunity. We belong to a global organization with local impact — meaning our club’s efforts contribute to projects and advocacy worldwide, while directly benefiting women and girls in our own community. 


 Locally, our club supports women and girls through grants, mentorship, advocacy, and community projects designed to increase access to education, employment, and safety. We work closely with local organizations, schools, and service providers to address real needs in Langley and the surrounding area.

Globally, we are part of a worldwide federation that amplifies our local efforts through advocacy at the United Nations, international programs for women’s education, and collaborative projects across regions. When you join our club, your contributions create impact here at home and support the global movement for gender equality. 


 Our work is centred on improving the lives of women and girls, with a strong emphasis on education, economic independence, mentorship, and safety. Typical projects include:

  • Educational awards and scholarships for women and girls pursuing higher education or career training
  • Community service and outreach, including partnerships with local organizations supporting women and families
  • Fundraising events that support our local programs and Soroptimist initiatives across the region
  • Leadership and life-skills programming, tailored to the needs of women and girls in our community


Each year, our members decide which programs to focus on based on local needs and available resources.


 Soroptimist International of the Langleys is unique in its mission, its membership, and its approach. We are part of a global network of women who support other women and girls through programs grounded in education and empowerment. Our club blends meaningful service with strong personal connection — members often join to help their community, and stay because of the friendships, shared purpose, and supportive environment.


While many organizations do excellent community work, Soroptimist stands apart in its focus on creating long-term, generational change for women and girls, both locally and around the world.


For partnerships, sponsorships, or event collaborations, please contact us here . We love working with local organizations and businesses that share our mission of empowering women and girls.


You can explore more at:

  • Soroptimist International
  • Soroptimist International of the Americas
  • Soroptimist Western Canada Region
  • LiveYourDream.org


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