On March 8, members of Soroptimist International of Price celebrated the 105th anniversary of International Women’s Day in the United States. Many organizations, including Soroptimists, celebrate this day with events all over the world.
The local Soroptimist group wanted to take on a project that would impact the community, which led them to address needs at Castleview Hospital. The club decided to donate stuffed animals, toys and books for patients and children of patients that are seen in the emergency room.
Soroptimist International of Price President Kerry Welch spoke to hospital employees and explained why the club chose this project.
“We focus on local community needs as well as worldwide needs. We realize how stressful it is to make a trip to the emergency department,” Welch stated. “We hope our offering of gifts, toys and books will help on a small scale to alleviate stress, add comfort and support to patients and family members being seen in the emergency department at Castleview Hospital.”
All the gifts were purchased by members of the Soroptimist with their own money. They also used this opportunity to read a proclamation about the International Day of Women. The proclamation recognizes the many contributions made by women that improve the world as a whole.
Castleview Hospital spokesperson Elaine Bowman said the hospital wanted to thank Soroptimist International of Price for their generous donation. She also said the gifts will be well received by patients.
Soroptimist International is a worldwide service organization whose focus is to improve the lives of women and girls throughout the world. Soroptimist International of Price was founded 60 years ago, with Helen O. Smith as the founding president.
Currently, the organization has a strong presence in Price. Its signature wine tasting event held at the Carbon Country Club is its main fundraising activity, which funds community projects.
Two area scholarships are also awarded each year by the organization. Scholarships include The Women’s Opportunity Award worth $500 and the Violet Richardson Award, also worth $500.