The Soroptimist International of the Dukeries club has been in existence for over 45 years, providing valuable service throughout this time, particularly within the local community. Among the local charities they have supported are the Bassetlaw and Bluebell Wood Hospices, St Johns Ambulance and the local ‘Singing for the Brain’ Alzheimer’s group, as well as helping at the local Hospital Chapel.
Members raise their donations through a variety of events, such as coffee mornings and lunches, raffles and quizzes, plus recycling/selling cards and tags. Members also enjoy a regular Dinner Meeting at Ye Olde Bell in Barnby Moor, with speakers on many different topics. At their Dinner Meeting on 26th July, a speaker from the local Food Bank talked about their organisation and club members donated food and other items for this cause.
Recently members held a sweepstake for the Football World Cup and raised £50.00 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital. The club is planning a visit to Doncaster Riding for Disabled group, following a talk given at one of the Dinner Meetings.
Nationally, the club has supported Medical Detection Dogs and Air Ambulance. Apart from this, the Club has donated £75.00 to the ‘When you Wish upon a Star’ charity, which grants the wishes of sick children. An international project that they have been supporting is Mary’s Meals, donating ruck sacks with a selection of items to help children in Africa in their education.
Members help other clubs, charities and groups eg. FOYPIB (Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw), by attending their local events for the young people of our community. Two members attended a fashion show, organised by SI Sheffield and the club was also represented at a Summer Garden Party held by SI Leicester in aid of the Meru Garden Project.
The club has had the great pleasure of welcoming two new members recently, who have already proved to be tremendous assets to the club. Christina gave a fascinating talk on the beneficial properties of Aloe Vera. Members were able to sample a wide range of products. There were many converts and Christina kindly donated her commission on the sales she made. Tina, who transferred from SI Flyde, also gave a highly entertaining and enlightening talk on her experiences as a Funeral Director. Dressed for the role, she regaled everyone with her anecdotes, which touched on all aspects of her work, from the serious to the occasional light-hearted moments.
The club has a Business Meeting in Worksop on the second Tuesday of most months, to discuss the ‘work’ and programme for the year which varies to cover everyone’s interests. Would you be interested in finding out more? Please contact Caroline Mason on 01909 473071 or Denise Pears on 01909 473327.