A luncheon to celebrate SI Chicago’s anniversary was held at the Tam O’Shanter Golf Course in Niles Illinois, on Saturday, 2nd of June, 20178 The members dressed in period clothing as we traveled through Soroptimist history and met some of the remarkable women from the club.

Soroptimist International of Chicago became the 80th Club in the American Federation on January 14, 1938. There were 22 members, dues were $12.00 a year and meetings were held twice a month. The first president of SI Chicago was Dr. Edris Rice-Wray, a Gynecologist.

Chicago Soroptimists have been involved in a variety of service projects to reflect the issues of the times. During World War !! members sold war bonds and stamps in theater lobbies. They also packed and sent packages full of necessities to their Soroptimist sisters in Europe- particularly Holland. 

Members have always been advocates for issues affecting women and girls, including allocating a higher percentage of tax dollars to public institutions and hospitals, education, having more women in public office, gender equality in the workplace, gender based violence and trafficking.

They support women returning to school through the Live Your Dream Award and the Virginia Wagner Educational Award.