Soroptimist was formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join service organizations. Our name, loosely translated from the Latin, means best for women. Today, we have over 25,000 members and supporters in countries across North America, Latin America and the Pacific Rim. We are one of five federations that make up Soroptimist International, which has clubs in more than 120 countries throughout the world.

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Soroptimist International has special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This unique status allows them to contribute directly to UN discussions and have a voice on important issues affecting women and girls globally. Soroptimists also actively participate in the UN Commission on the Status of Women, where they advocate for policy changes and raise awareness on gender equality issues.