Soroptimist International of Upper Montgomery County Maryland
We Empower Women & girls
Soroptimist International of Upper Montgomery County Maryland (SIUMC) is the local chapter of Soroptimist International of the Americas Inc., an international volunteer organization for women whose mission is to improve the lives of women and girls, through programs leading to social and economic empowerment.
We partner with the City of Gaithersburg, educators and other organizations to fulfill our mission and continue our local service projects:
SIUMC's Claudia Chitty is Grand Marshall at St. Patrick's Day Parade!
On April 18, 2024, the City of Gaithersburg recognized our club with the Outstanding Organization Award.
Because our club won the award, we could provide someone to be the Grand Marshall. Claudia Chitty was selected to be our representative. She did a great job and her husband, Rich, took the photos!
Claudia Chitty has been a leader in the club, specifically with the City of Gaithersburg events around the Thanksgiving and Winter holidays. She also has been a volunteer multiple times at the Book Festival and is a mentor for our Dream It Be It for Girls.
SIUMC Recognized with Outstanding Organization Award
On April 18, 2024, the City of Gaithersburg recognized our club with the Outstanding Organization Award.
“Since its inception in 1964, the organization has been a steadfast pillar of support and service in the Gaithersburg community ensuring women and girls have the resources and opportunity to reach their full potential and live their dreams.“
Pictured above: Member Johann Dretchen with Gaithersburg City Council members.
Pictured left: SIUMC Members in attendance: Myrtis Brame, Johann, VP Donna Jones, Michele Rubinstein, Nancy Gibbs, Claudia Chitty
SIUMC Member Johann Dretchen accepts the award. Johann’s work with Dream It Be It and writing grants to allow the program to be offered to schools has been instrumental to its success.
Join Our Club!
Are you looking for a way to help your community that fits your schedule? You are in the right place! Check out our activities that you can choose that fits your schedule! Don't see one? Contact us and we will tell you about all the different activities we do. Our members are working to ask friends and acquaintances to come to one of our events as well. Reach out and join our club today - make a positive impact on the lives of women and girls, and their families!
Dream It Be It
Dream It Be It targets high school girls who face obstacles to their future success. Our program gives them the tools and confidence to overcome them and achieve their dreams.
Live Your Dream
The Live Your Dream Awards Program is an education award for women who provide the primary financial support for their families. It gives women the resources they need to improve their lives.
Ruby Award
This award honors women who have worked to improve the lives of women and girls through their professional and/or volunteer work and whose work inspires and encourages other women and girls.
Betty King Award
This award was established in 2018 in remembrance of Elizabeth “Betty” King, charter member, and former SIUMC president. It is given to a resilient woman driven to further her education.
Monthly service projects
March
On March 2nd, we packed meals at the Binderman Center. We have been doing this for the past few years. It is a great cause!
April
For the month of April, we will be collecting canned and non-perishable food for Gaithersburg Help. Specifically, we are looking for canned foods, peanut butter, and cereal. Bring these items to our April Business Meeting or contact us for drop off info.
May
Diaper Drive for D.C. Diaper Bank. We will be collecting all sizes of diapers/training pants and wipes. More information coming regarding timeframe and drop off info.
We will also be volunteering at the Gaithersburg Book Festival this month on May 17th.