Soroptimist in the 1930s*

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1936-1938

Director: Mayme V. Matthay, Los Angeles
Secretary: Dr. Mable Hammons, Alhambra
Treasurer: Ada Cummings, Santa Paula

The report of the regional director shows that a questionnaire was submitted to the clubs in the region regarding the causes of the loss of membership. From the returns "expense of maintaining membership" was given as the chief cause.

Various interests shown by the clubs were: economic advancement of women; Venture clubs; legislation; revolving funds; club councils, and obtaining employment for women.

Recommendations considered were "that all clubs select as regional delegates persons who are qualified to do organization work," and "that all regions in their meetings discuss the many matters which are of interest to all the membership."

Six clubs were organized during this biennium.

Director Mayme was elected to serve as the first vice president of the American Federation from 1938 to 1940.

* reprinted from Southwestern Region's history book entitled "Out Where It All Began" written and compiled for a celebration of Soroptimist's 50th anniversary in 1971 and updated and reprinted in 1996 for the celebration of Soroptimist's 75th anniversary, prepared by the Founder Region 75th Anniversary Committee and entitled Founder Region "The Way It Was".