Soroptimist in the 1940s*

home  about SIFR  Founder Region History1940's

1946-1948

Director: Dr. Ruth S. Thomas (Heitfeld), Chico
Secretary: Ruth Thomas, Fresno
Treasurer: May Overhouse, Salinas
Board Members: Frances Haverle, Hunington Park
Ruth Sprowls, Phoenix

The war was over and with the theme "Clubs Which Work Together Will Grow Together" much was accomplished this term.

Firsts for the region were: Attendance awards established; a printed regional roster; president's established in all areas; and club by-laws were sent to the regional chairman for approval.

History making activities of this biennium were: Club contacts were made in Mexico and Director Ruth translated Soroptimist pamphlets into Spanish; Fellowships and Grants in Aid were established by voluntary contributions of $1.00 per member each year; and the Redwood Memorial Grove became a real project and completed -- it was tribute to the Founders on our 25th anniversary.

During this biennium the matter of dividing the region, because of area growth was recommended to the regional constitution and bylaws committee and was referred to the clubs for ratification.

* 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".