April 2026 Awards Luncheon Memories

Women at their best, working to help other women to be their best!

Soroptimist was formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join service organizations. Our name, loosely translated from the Latin, means best for women. Soroptimist International of the Americas has nearly 1,300 clubs in 20 countries and territories who work to improve the lives of women and girls. Today, we have over 25,000 members and supporters in countries across North America, Latin America and the Pacific Rim. We are one of five federations that make up Soroptimist International, which has 72,000 clubs in more than 120 countries throughout the world.

Our Soroptimist International of Austin, Texas was formed on March 3, 1945, and will celebrate our 80th year of service to Central Texas in 2025!

A lot has changed for women and girls in 100+ years, but the road to equality continues to be difficult.  Women and girls face tremendous challenges, solely because of their gender, and they suffer disproportionately from poverty, racism, sexual assault, domestic violence, and sex trafficking.  With its long history of working with women and girls, Soroptimist knows that helping them attain education, skills and training is a powerful strategy toward achieving economic empowerment.  The organization's Dream Programs provide access to these learning tools.

The Soroptimist Ava Crofford Community Service Award is presented annually to recognize the exceptional contributions of young women to their homes, schools, communities, countries, and the world.  Established in 2000 in memory of Ava Crofford, a beloved charter member of our club, this award honors her lasting impact on our club.  Her legacy continues to inspire our efforts to empower women and girls.

"Our Club is proud to participate in the Dreams Programs, as well as other community projects including working with local domestic violence and sex trafficking organizations", said Soroptimist Austin President Judy Brown.