President's Message

"Break the Cycle" Dinner Dance & unique Silent Auction to benefit the community. October 6, 2007

Aloha! It is with great pleasure that I communicate with you as the current President of Soroptimist International of Kona, an association of business and professional women and men dedicated to improving the lives of women and children. Although the word "Soroptimist" means "Best for Women" and our primary focus is on issues and needs pertaining to women, many of our projects raise awareness of issues that include anyone that is in need, and our members take great pride in serving all members of our community.

Soroptimist International of Kona is part of an international organization that was founded in 1921, and which has been actively helping create positive changes locally, nationally, and internationally, for over 85 years. Soroptimists work to help keep women and children safe, help them create positive changes for themselves, their families, their communities, and to help them acquire the resources to live their dreams.

The Kona chapter has had the privilege of being a member of this organization for 36 years, allowing us the opportunity to sponsor an awards and recognition program for women in the community who are making a difference. For example, each year we recognize two outstanding high school students in West Hawaii who are involved in community volunteer activities. One is honored with our Youth Citizenship Award and one receives our Violet Richardson Award. We also present an annual Woman's Opportunity Award that recognizes one woman who is the head of her household and is entering or returning to a higher education.

Our signature project is a program designed to stop domestic abuse in our local communities. We hold an annual fundraiser, a fabulous "Break the Cycle" Dinner, Dance, & Silent Auction. This year we will be holding the event at the magnificent Marriott Waikoloa on October 6, 2007 - it will be an unforgettable experience! The funds for this event will be spent in the community to help break the cycle of domestic violence, to help the endeavors on education, and keeping our children safe. Domestic violence, whether local or global, affects each and every one of us.

As members of Soroptimist, we are women and men of action and are taking a stand to make a difference in our community. Our club enjoys the pleasure of being able to give back during the Holiday Season, where we adopt a family, raise funds for shopping, and provide a joyful holiday experience for our adopted family. We also enjoy giving throughout the year and provide many needed donations to the women's shelter.

Members represent a wide range of occupations in business and the professions (both public and private sectors) and we are always looking for new members to enhance our diverse group. If you would like to become a member and to do what you can to help strengthen the community in which you live, please contact us for more information about membership.

Thanks for taking the time to make a Difference in the lives of others!

Mahalo,
    Kelly Shaw