Friday, May 16 2008, the KOSC hosted members from Okinawa Soroptimist International for a “Quilt America Luncheon” at the Kadena Officers' Club.
The Soroptimist International is the world's largest organization for women in business whose purpose is working together to make the world a better place for all through service projects and philanthropy. There were a few remarks by Colonel Manson Morris and a Kadena Air Base presentation done by 18th Wing Public Affairs.
This was followed by a four course lunch. Barbie Knickerbocker gave a wonderful American quilt development history speech with some demonstration after the program. Quilts were displayed around the Torri and Daedalian room.
Guests included were Marianne Williams, Heidi Morris, Pam Schmidle (MOSC advisor), Annette Schaefer, Melissa Johnson (OESC advisor), Imai Toyoko (Ambassador's wife), and Sayako Maher (Consulate General's wife). We also had representatives from the Marine Officers' Spouses' Club, Naval Officers' Spouses' Club, Okinawan Enlisted Spouses' Club (formerly KESC), American Womens' Welfare Associatation, and Army Community Group of Okinawa.
WHAT IS SOROPTIMIST?
Soroptimist International (SI) is the world’s largest organization for women in management and the professions covering both public and private sectors, working together through service projects, in a spirit of friendship and fun to make the world a better place for all. SI membership worldwide is over 90,000 members in 120 countries.
Soroptimist began in 1921, in California, U.S.A. SI of Jakarta was founded in 1992. The name “Soroptimist” originated from two Latin words: soror meaning sister and optima meaning best. Soroptimist = “women at their best, helping others to be their best.”
Women who become Soroptimists pledge to serve their community, their country and the world. Women who are currently not working but are involved in philanthropic work are also welcome to join as members. Each club decides on club projects that best serve their local communities.
S.I. is officially recognized by United Nations, with Category 1 Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council and is represented on various committees of UN in Geneva, NY, Vienna, and Paris.
