Overcoming Life's Challenges: SFC's Momentum

Dear Soroptimists

Welcome to the first edition of Momentum — a new way for the Soroptimist Foundation of Canada to stay connected with Soroptimists across the country.

Our mission remains the same: to advance the human rights and status of women and girls, and help them achieve economic and social equity through access to education and resources.

This newsletter is part of our 2025-2028 strategy to strengthen communications, grow our impact, and deepen engagement with Soroptimists nationwide. In each issue, you'll find stories of impact, ways to get involved, program deadlines and news.

Momentum goes out bimonthly this year (monthly starting fall, 2027) to all Canadian Soroptimist members and Club Presidents. Know someone who'd like to receive it too? Help us grow by sharing the subscribe link with your CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE

We'd love your feedback as we grow this newsletter — let us know what you think: media@soroptimistfoundation.ca

For Inspiration

(Photo withheld for privacy)

Hi, my name is Joanna and I'm currently pursuing a bachelor of Social Work. 

Receiving the Live Your Dream Award last year was a huge relief! I did not know how I was going to be able to afford attending university full time as a single mom. The $1500 award easily covered my tuition for a semester. I feel very lucky to have access to funding that has allowed me to focus on my studies and on parenting, instead of worrying about finances. I am grateful to the Soroptimist Foundation for creating these awards specifically for women like me. I feel seen and supported to have been chosen out of so many women who applied for this award. It is uplifting to know that my efforts to overcome my life's challenges have been recognized in this way. I really appreciate all of the work that goes into the whole process on your end as well. 

Thank you very much for your recognition and support,

Joanna

Every year, the Foundation collaborates with Soroptimist International of the Americas and the Eastern and Western Canada Region Live Your Dream Chairs to accept applications from women in areas where there is not a Soroptimist Club. The Region Chairs contact their Clubs and forward applications to those that wish to accept and judge non local applicants in their pool. It is because of these SFC funded awards that Western Canada Region has three Region awards paid for by the Federation where there used to be two. In Fiscal Year 2026, the Foundation issued $1,500 awards to 35 women across the country, disbursing a total of $52,500.

With Gratitude

I donate to the Soroptimist Foundation of Canada because I believe education is  one of the most powerful ways to foster enduring change in a woman's life. Education opens doors, generates opportunities, and empowers women to make their own decisions, cultivate independence, and create a better future for themselves and their families. What motivates me the most is witnessing the tangible impact these programs have on individual lives. Behind every award, grant, or scholarship lies a woman striving to overcome obstacles, fulfill her aspirations, and build a brighter future. Listening to their stories reinforces my belief that even a small donation can assist someone in taking the next crucial step in their journey. When one woman's life is transformed, the advantages ripple far beyond that individual. Families, communities, and future generations are uplifted. Supporting the Foundation represents my commitment to investing in that positive transformation and ensuring that more women have the chance to thrive.

RoseMary Reid, SI Peterborough

Take Action

Mark your calendar: the Foundation's Annual General Meeting is Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. PST. Canadian Clubs are the voting members of the Foundation, and Club Presidents will soon receive AGM notification and delegate details. We're aiming for 100% Club participation — and all Soroptimists are welcome to attend.

Want To Help?

Scan the QR code or CLICK HERE to go to our donation page and see the various ways you can help women and girls.

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