Ponca City—In 1921, a group of women joined an organization in Oakland, California, called Soroptimist to work toward strengthening their community. At the time, women weren’t permitted to join the all-male community groups. Since then, the organization has grown to about 1,300 clubs in countries and territories throughout the world. Soroptimist International of Ponca City formed in 1951 and this year is celebrating their 70th anniversary, one year late because of Covid.

A lot has changed for women and girls in 100 years. But the road to equality continues to be difficult. Women and girls face tremendous challenges, solely because of their gender. And they suffer disproportionately from poverty, racism, sexual assault, domestic violence, and sex trafficking.

With its long history of working with women and girls, Soroptimist knows that helping them get education, skills and training is a powerful strategy toward achieving economic empowerment. The organization’s Dream Programs provide the access to that necessary education and training.

The Live Your Dream Awards® provide cash grants for women who are pursuing a degree or enrolled in a technical training program. The women, who provide the primary financial support for their families, may use the funds in any way that helps them achieve their educational goals— whether it’s to pay for tuition or rent or childcare. Each year approximately 1,800 women receive almost $3 million in cash grants. Since 1972, the program has helped more than 33,000 women and their families gain financial independence.

Soroptimist’s Dream It, Be It® program prepares eighth grade girls in Ponca City for future career success by providing them with guidance, training and resources to make good decisions. More than 73,000 girls have gone through the program since it launched in 2015 and about 150 locally.

“Our club is proud to participate in the Dream Programs, as well as other community projects including working with local domestic violence and sex trafficking organizations, and providing mammograms to women who can’t afford them,” said Ponca City Club President Terri Buesing.

At a recent City Commission meeting Ponca City Mayor Homer Nicholson declared Oct. 3, 2021, as “Soroptimist International of Ponca City Day” in recognition of the club’s many contributions to the community and the organization’s 100th anniversary and local club’s 70th anniversary..

“Our club has committed to offering up to $4250 in Live Your Dream Awards,” said Robyn Armstrong, Live Your Dream Chairman. “Depending upon Covid, we hope to honor the recipients at a luncheon this coming February.

Soroptimist International of Ponca City is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas, headquartered in Philadelphia, Pa. A 501(c) (3) organization, Soroptimist relies on charitable donations to support its programs. Soroptimist improves the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment.

For more information about how Soroptimist improves the lives of women and girls or how you can become a member, call SIPC Ponca City President Terri Buesing at 580-763-7052 or message Soroptimist International of Ponca City on Facebook .