Soroptimist International of Stourbridge and District

February business focussed on confirming our 2018/2019 programme before discussing membership development single page plan for the coming year, embedding new members in programme action projects improving the lives of women and girls, retaining our loyal established members, working on partnerships to extend our goals, and ‘Growing our Soroptimist Brand’, looking forward to a special Midland Arden and Midland Chase workshop on March 24. Rosie Narrowmore of Ridgewood High School and the UK Youth Parliament is our Public Speaking candidate for the regional competition to be held in Rugby on March 17. Anne Rogers kindly offered to facilitate purchase of commemorative Suffragette and Suffragist stamp covers for interested members.

The dinner meeting on the 21st opened with our February Lead Jane Flint Bridgewater inducting new member Linda Sanders, and the presentation of our £1500 Annual Literary Dinner proceeds to Charlotte Schofield, director of fundraising at Mary Stevens Hospice, towards bereavement services and the new build. After dinner, Professor Amtul Carmichael, a member of the club, talked about her work on breast disease, and helpfully shared dealing with the challenges of her career - ultimately, a strengthening experience. A very fulfilling talk was enjoyed by all, and appreciation of Soroptimist support and friendship expressed with gratitude.

The March 21 dinner meeting welcomes Karen Higgins to talk about eating disorders after the marking of FairTrade fortnight, book sale to mark World Book Day on 1st and packing of toiletries for CHADD refuge at our Business meeting the evening before International Women’s Day. Interested attendees/potential members may contact Jane Flint Bridgewater on ejfb51@gmail.com.