SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL of THE SIERRAS
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

Soroptimist International of the Sierras remains committed to our Domestic Violence Project in several ways. Funds are provided for emergency transportation and for additional needs not funded by grants at our local shelter, the Mountain Laurel House. A portion of these funds come from a memorial fund in honor of past president Nikki Kraft, who passed away in 1998. Increasing hands-on-service is also provided by our members. Members have painted several of the home’s units this past year and continue to offer their services to women and children in need.

Local and international service projects receive monetary support. The club has made a commitment to more hands-on volunteerism, rather than the “checkbook”-style of service. Members have volunteered increasing hours of actual service to address our local needs. Service opportunities have included hostessing at the Children’s Museum benefit “Breakfast with Santa,” reading to children during the elementary schools’ “Week of Words,” and coordinating the community’s low-cost mammogram clinic. The Sierras has a long history supporting education. Each year the club gives four scholarships to graduating seniors from Yosemite High School and the alternative school’s Young Expectant Minor program. The club also recognizes eighth-grade students with Outstanding Citizenship and Improved Academic awards.

The club is proud to continue the “Baby Think It Over” program, which it pioneered in the region. Financial support for education-related needs is provided. In addition, club members volunteer to serve in many capacities, including assisting in and judging two academic decathlons. Our most exciting new project is the formation of the Mountain Area Youth Organization, comprised of presidents and president-elects representing Soroptimist, Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis. This organization was formed with the purpose of joint fundraising and the formation of a local Boys and Girls Club. The organization has recently affiliated with the Fresno County Boys and Girls Club, with the goal of opening our club in the summer of 2000. The overwhelming need for this facility and the realization of inter-service club cooperation and vision makes this a unique service project.