Soroptimist of Schenectady is part of the world’s largest women’s classified service organization, Soroptimist International.

Our organization is dedicated to “making a difference for women” through our many service programs. The word Soroptimist is formed from the Latin soror
and optima meaning best of women.

Soroptimist Goals and Objectives

• to maintain high ethical standards in business, professions, and all aspects of life
• to strive for human rights for all people and in particular, to advance the status of women
• to develop a spirit of friendship and unity among Soroptimists of all countries
• to motivate the spirit of service and human understanding
• to contribute to international understanding and universal friendship.

Soroptimists are encouraged to use the three-pronged approach to attain Goals:

• Awareness
  Increased member knowledge through study sessions, seminars, conferences, speakers and discussion groups
• Advocacy
  Making the Soroptimist position known through statements or personal presentation to councils, legislative bodies, commissions or other decision-making groups
• Action
  Undertaking projects, either alone or in cooperation with other like-minded groups, that will lead to improved conditions.

Soroptimist International of Schenectady is a not-for-profit organization.