Soroptimists pledge allegiance to the sincerity of friendship, the joy of achievement, the dignity of service, the integrity of profession and the love of country. They promise to put forth their greatest effort to promote, uphold and defend these ideals for a larger fellowship in home, in society, in business, for country and for God.
The Wheeling chapter of the international organization has been active for decades. The group has always included women in management and the professions. Through local service projects, Soroptimists work together in a spirit of friendship and fun to make the world a better place for women and their families.
Wheeling chapter Vice-President Maureen McNabb has been a member for over twenty-five years. She says, “Members are encouraged to be aware of and involved in issues of society. Soroptimists are involved with a wide spectrum of women's concerns. Our Program of Service activities encourage members to be an active influence for positive social change through awareness, advocacy and action.”
Shirley McCloskey, says she has “lived in the Wheeling are forever!” A secretary “all my life’, and who also has been a Soroptimist for more than 25 years, she and her working friends joined the club early in their careers. “The club was originally professional women only; members were required to be in management positions. And meetings were a white- gloved affair. That isn’t true now. All business and professional women interested in service to the community are welcome. At our dinner meetings, we have educational and entertaining programs.”
Besides gloves and membership rules, Shirley says the group has seen other changes as women have less time available for volunteerism. “Our members are getting younger so members have less time available to give to the community. Professional women now have families as well as jobs that take a lot of their time. Through the Soroptimists, women can make the most of their volunteer efforts. Each year, the club decides which charity we are going to support that year. We raise money for an existing social service or organization. By focusing our efforts and combining our skills, we can raise the most money and make a significant contribution.”
Maureen says the Soroptimists also hope to promote volunteerism in younger women. “Each year we honor a local high school girl who gives her time and her heart to the community. We invite applications from six high schools; both Junior and Senior girls are eligible. The applicants are judged based on the quantity and quality of their activities. The most outstanding girl is presented with the Violet Richardson Award for her service.”
Local recipients of Soroptimist support include the YWCA programs and shelter for domestic violence, House of Carpenter and HealthRight. The group also supports local Easter Seal efforts. Members also ring bells and make stockings for the Salvation Army.
Nationally, the Soroptimists award three $10,000 grants to women who need financial assistance to return to the workplace. Chapters across the country send in a local applicant for consideration.
Shirley says, “Soroptimists help women in the business world and support the establishment of women professional women. We are business and professional women supporting social services for women and children. We are an international organization, but most of our energy -and all the money we raise- is spent in this community.”
For more information, contact Maureen McNabb, 304-242-6920 or mfmcnabb@yahoo.com.
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