The Sierra Nevada Region held its Soroptimist Development Retreat August 19-20, 2023 and was attended by five of our members. The emphasis was on creating a sustainable club by attaining, training, and retaining new members. The workshops revolved around educating members to the structure of Soroptimists Clubs including acronyms and programs on a regional level like, "Celebrate the Best for Women" (CBW) and the "Laurel Legacy" (LL).

 

Information was also given on how to welcome diversity, create belonging, and recruit new members. The presenters really stressed letting new members fly with their ideas and give it a go without shutting it down with phrases like, "we tried that", "it won't work", or "we've always done it this way". Instead, asking how we can help, ask thoughtful questions, and give support where needed. It was thought that if we were inclusive and welcoming, that the new members would feel a sense of belonging and being an important part of the services we offer, which is why we're all involved. If we want new members, we must be willing to listen to their ideas, get behind them with support and let them give it a go.

 

There was much discussion about various outreach and fundraising ideas; my favorite was a Mad Hatter Tea Party. There was also a lot of media and social network information given. Also, as a special speaker on behalf of the Sex Trafficking issue was really informative. There are over 100,000 women, girls and boys being trafficked in the USA. Education was provided on recognizing the signs of those being trafficked. 

 

 

Soroptishop will be here before you know it. For those of you who don't know what it is - Soroptishop is an Artisan Craft Fair that SITD puts on each year. It is our club’s second largest fundraiser and it is an opportunity to kick off your holiday shopping (or pick up something for yourself).

 

We host unique artisans who sell handcrafted items such as: Jewelry, Pottery, Clothing, Woodworking, Fabric and Knitted items, Candles, Soaps, Lotions and Oils, Chocolates and lots more.

 

This year Soroptishop will be held on November 16th from 5:30 to 8:30pm at the Truckee Community Rec Center.  Please put it in your calendar. We will need volunteers the night of for set up, clean up, pouring wine, and admission ticket sales.  

 

If you know any artisans who might wish to participate, have them contact the committee at Soroptishop@sitd.info

At the August Business Meeting, Laura Mohun provided helpful information to members about using the SITD website and ClubRunner app.

 

She emphasized that after a member retrieves her login credentials, the member can access the SITD website and administration page. The administration page is a member's only page where you can edit your profile, email other members, and contribute content to the website.

 

Laura also asked that everyone upload a profile picture to make it easier to recognize other members.

 

 

 

Shirley, Lauren and Pam represented SITD with the other donors who helped purchase the $23,000 laser equipment for Truckee Roundhouse Community Makerspace. They are holding the laser printed coaster and bread boards that were printed as a thank you.

For a second year, Reno Tahoe International Art Show returns to the Reno - Sparks Convention Center Sept. 14-17. 

 

Shirley Phelan will once again be exhibiting new art in Booth 406. She hopes you will come see the show and stop by to say hello.

 

The Show is unique to the region, showcasing local talent alongside independent artists, national and international galleries and special features such as the First Nations, Indigenous Peoples Pavilion, Neon Exhibit and Short Film Programming curated by Reno Tahoe's Cordillera International Film Festival.

 

Also unique to the area is the RTIA Show's 'Post Playa Art' presenting large-scale sculpture from Black Rock Desert's Burning Man.