[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.

Because educated women and girls are:


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


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:
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.