Sierra Nevada Region E-Blast
Soroptimist International

E-Blast Digest

February 1st, 2025

Hello Soroptimist Int'l,


Please take the time to read this week's E-Blast so you can stay up-to-date on happenings around the Region and Federation.


NOTE: When you see at the bottom of this eblast "message clipped view entire message" click on it to see the complete eblast.

February

February 15 - DEADLINE: Live Your Dream Awards club transmittals due to SIA

February 21 - Official notifications sent to club officers for 2024/25 SIA President-elect ballot 

February 23 - Electronic ballot for SIA 2024/25 President-elect opens; official ballot link sent to club email address 


March - DEADLINE:

  • Applications for Soroptimist Club Grants due to SIA

April - DEADLINE:

  • SNR Endowment Grant April 1
  • SNR Ruby Award: Women Helping Women – April 1
  • SNR 5 Star Public Awareness Awards April 1
  • SNR S.O.L.T./Evelyn Holland Award – April 1


If you need assistance with any of the submissions, please reach out to your Sierra Nevada Region District Directors and they can put you in touch with their coordinator for each of these awards or grants.

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Governor Stacey's Message

Hello Sierra Nevada Region Members, Friends and Sponsors!



WOW! What a busy month of January have we all had?! I’ve seen emails come in about clubs submitting their Live Your Dream Awardees. Don’t forget that Live Your Dream Awards club reports are due to the region via online reporting no later than February 15th .


I just love this time of year! February is where I think we are all gearing up for club projects and club elections, submitting awards. For all you Club Presidents and Treasurers out there, don’t forget about re-evaluating those club budgets and club

roadmaps! Friendly reminder that it’s important to budget 10% for Club Giving. Also

please don’t forget to budget for the SIA Convention coming up in 2026. If you split the

registration over a two-year period, it isn’t such a big hit to the club’s budget.


Governor Elect Kathy is busy with zoom calls and meetings with not only her committee

but also with the Atlantis Casino Resort as she is putting in place the plans for our June

2025 Conference in Reno.


Our Region District Directors are busy getting ready for their Winter District/Leadership

Summits. A list of our upcoming Leadership Summits is below.



SNR Board Meeting

03/15/25 10:00am

Zoom Meeting

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/board-2025-03/

District 1 and 2

03/08/25 9:30am -2:30pm

The Happy Viking” Restaurant. 741 Plumas Street, Yuba City 95991

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d12-winter/

District 3

03/01/25 9:30am - 12pm

Rancho Cordova City Hall Boardroom, 2725 Prospect Park Dr, Rancho Cordova, 95670

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d3-winter/

District 4

03/01/25 8:30am - 2pm

Timbers Lodge, 7050 Del Webb Blvd., Roseville

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d4-winter/

District 5

03/08/25 10:30am - 3pm

Sierra View Library, 4001 South Virginia St. Reno, NV 89502

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d5-winter/

District 6

02/01/25 10:00am - 1pm

Zoom Meeting

https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d6-winter/

Whether you are currently holding an office, are running for an office, chairing a

committee, or just interested in improving your leadership skills, now is the time to

attend. There is also a link for our March 15 th Board Meeting, which will be held virtually.

There is no fee; upon registration you will receive a link to this zoom meeting and

registration is now open. See the link below.


As we start the month of February, clubs need to be on the lookout for the electronic

ballot for the 2025-2026 SIA President-elect opens; official ballot link will be sent to the

club email address.


Speaking of SIA, who has ordered their “exclusive Walk for Women 2025 apparel?

These commemorative shirts and sweatshirts, have a brand-new design and are the

perfect way to show your support and join the movement as we gear up for the Walk for

Women campaign that launches on March 1, with strides toward empowerment all

month long, including International Women’s Day celebration on March 8. A percentage

of each purchase benefits SIA and the Dream Programs! Check out the Walk for

Women Toolkit for resources and tips to help you organize an impactful event. Stay

tuned for more announcements and resources from SIA!


With gratitude,


Stacey Jensen

Sierra Nevada Region Governor 2024-2026

Greetings to you all!


After the initial shock and devastation of the LA wildfires, we can still send our best

wishes and whatever help we can to those affected. What a truly life-changing event

which will go on for a very long time for them and for the state of California. I love how

no matter which state we reside in; we still care deeply for our Soroptimists at home and

throughout the Federation!


On a happier note, we are still looking for two more nominations for the Nominating

Committee, specifically in District 2 and District 5. It is a wonderfully easy way to ‘dip

your toe’ into working at the Region level. The position is straightforward with very few

meetings, arranging for nominees for the Region Board for one year and your own

committee the following year. Before you know it, the two-year term is up! Besides, you

get to meet lots of cool women in the process! Contact Jackie DeMartini, 916-847-0763,

nomcommittee@soroptimistsnr.org for more details or to sign up.



Stay tuned for more info coming your way for Conference June 6-8, 2025. We need

sponsors to help keep costs down and all that pertinent information is also forthcoming.


Click here for the Sponsorship information to share.


Take care and stay warm and dry!

Sincerely in service,

Kathy

SAVE THE DATES!


SIA Headquarters office closed (President’s Day Feb 17)


Walk for Women Campaign kicks off March 1

March 10, 8-9 p.m. (ET)

Fourth Annual International Women's Day Tea Party

Register here.


 June 24, 6-9 p.m. (ET)

2025 Leadership Round Table

Registration coming soon!


 June 28, 1-4 p.m. (ET)

2025-2026 Soroptimist Leadership Fellows Program (first

session)

Registration coming soon!

It's that time of the year to start thinking Soroptimist Ruby Award !!!!


The Soroptimist Ruby Award celebrates remarkable women non Soroptimist member whose personal or professional efforts have made an extraordinary difference in the lives of women and girls. These honorees are women who dedicate themselves to uplifting others, creating meaningful change, and inspiring future generations. Their work not only has a profound impact but also serves as a source of encouragement and empowerment for others.


If you know a woman who exemplifies these qualities—or if you yourself do—we invite you to submit a nomination for this special recognition. Please complete the form and essay and return it to me by April 1, 2025. Thank you for helping us honor these incredible women.


Looking for more info about the Ruby Awards or Who was Ruby Lee Minar 

https://si-founderregion.org/ruby-award


Please send nominations to me at rubycoord@soroptimistsnr.org


Click here for the application


Cheryl M. Henning

SNR Ruby Award Coordinator 2025

(775) 934-4660

Human Trafficking Awareness 



As We Close Out the Month of January, We Continue to Bring Awareness to Human Trafficking 

Clubs Across Nevada Take Action to Raise Awareness


Since 2010, January has been recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month in the United States. This important month is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering efforts to prevent the harrowing realities of human trafficking. Across the nation, organizations,

communities, and individuals unite to shine a light on this critical issue and advocate for solutions.


Here in Nevada, many Soroptimist clubs have joined the movement by hosting or participating in various events. While some clubs have already implemented impactful outreach programs, others are still exploring ways to engage their communities.


At Soroptimist International of Pahrump Valley (SIPV), we took the initiative to host a free luncheon featuring a powerful keynote speaker, Jenna McKaye, a trafficking survivor. Jenna shared her harrowing yet inspiring story, offering insights into the realities of human trafficking and how survivors can find hope and healing. The event also featured a representative from Olive Crest, who highlighted the ways children can be vulnerable to trafficking and how communities can intervene to protect them.


How Is Your Club Contributing?

Does your club have a Human Trafficking program committee?

If so, what efforts have you undertaken to spread awareness? Have you hosted events or partnered with other organizations to amplify your message?

It’s also vital to recognize that human trafficking comes in many forms—ranging from labor trafficking to sex trafficking—and each requires tailored approaches for prevention and intervention.


Here to Help

As the State of Nevada Soroptimist International Nevada Region (SNR) Trafficking Coordinator, I am here to support your efforts. Whether your club is looking for ideas, resources, or guidance, I’m happy to help. I’d be honored to attend one of your meetings or meet with your committee to brainstorm impactful programs. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against human trafficking.

Let’s continue to raise awareness, educate our communities, and work together to protect the most vulnerable among us.

Cheers,


Linda “Mo” Turner

President-Elect, Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley

SNR Trafficking Coordinator


Video Series: Dream It Be It


Presenting: Field of Dreams! Presented by District Directors Billie Araiza and Elaine Cassell. 




Enjoy this video series with thanks to all our presenters. 


Danielle Kennedy, Public Awareness Chair 2024-2026


With heavy hearts we wanted to let Linda’s Soroptimist friends know that she unexpectedly passed away 12/19/2024. She was a devoted daughter and sister, a passionate philanthropist and traveler. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her. Linda was a blessing to her Citrus Heights club and her dedication to the mission of Soroptimist was admirable. She knew the intricate paths for success and always had a sweet smile for anyone. Her knowledge and patience was unmatchable. We look forward to honoring her at SNR Conference Celebration of Life this coming June.



TO: Board Members, Directors, Federation Chairs, Committee Coordinators

Past Governors, Club Presidents, Members


FROM: Stacey Jensen, SNR 2024-2026 Region Governor


RE: CALL TO REGION BOARD MEETING


WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2025


WHERE: This meeting will be held on Zoom.


Click here to register for the meeting.



You will receive a link to the meeting in your registration confirmation email.


Please join the Sierra Nevada Region Board at the third board meeting of the 2024 - 2026 biennium. All

Soroptimists are welcome to this virtual Board Meeting.


ANY ACTION ITEMS for the board meeting must be sent to Governor Stacey, snrgovernor@soroptimistsnr.org


before Saturday, March 1, 2025, in order to be included on the Board Agenda.


Please send all Board Reports to Governor Stacey, and Secretary Maureen by Saturday, March 1, 2025, at

snrgovernor@soroptimistsnr.org and snrsecretary@soroptimistsnr.org.


Feel free to contact Governor Stacey if you have questions.


Looking forward to seeing you all, yours in Soroptimist,


Stacey Jensen

2024-2026 Sierra Nevada Region Governor

Call to District 1& District 2


Winter Leadership Summit 2025


“Soaring to New Heights-Together” 

      


To:  District 1 & District 2 Club Officers, Members, Potential Members, SNR Region Governor, SNR Region Board Members, Committee Chairs and Representatives, SNR Federation Chairs and SNR Past Governors.


From: Teresa Armstrong, District 1 Director

Jenn Young, District 2 Director


Host Clubs:  SI Chico & SI Marysville-Yuba City


When: March 8, 2025


Time:  9:30 am-2:30pm. Registration opens at 9:30, meeting is 10 am- 2:30 pm


Where: “The Happy Viking” Restaurant. 741 Plumas Street, Yuba City 95991. 



Costs: $ 45.00, includes lunch. 


Registration Link:  https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d12-winter/


What: An afternoon of fun and socializing to collaborate with District 1 & District 2

members to share best practices, ideas and dreams for promoting the 

mission of Soroptimist in our local communities and beyond. 


Click here for the tentative Agenda



Official Call to District 3 Winter Leadership Roundtable


MARCH 1, 2025


To: District 3 Club Presidents, Vice Presidents, President-Elects, and Officer


From: Sheryl Longsworth, District 3 Director


When: Saturday, March 1, 2025. Registration opens at 9:15. Meeting is 9:30 am to 12 pm

Where: Rancho Cordova City Hall Boardroom, 2725 Prospect Park Dr, Rancho Cordova, 95670


Theme: “UpliftHER with Civility”


Cost: $15, includes continental breakfast

Optional lunch afterward: At the brand new and delicious woman-owned Stick & Roll Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant in the new SF Market Food Court, 2738 Sunrise Blvd,

Rancho Cordova


Registration Link: https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d3-winter/



Click here for the Call

District 4 Leadership Summit


March 1, 2025



8:30am – 2:00pm


Timbers Lodge, 7050 Del Webb Blvd., Roseville

The Solarium at Timbers Lodge


Our Leadership Summit will focus on enhancing and developing "Leadership Skills" which are

essential for guiding projects to success and inspiring club members. These skills can keep a

group of people motivated and focused on shared goals. No matter what role you see yourself

in your Soroptimist club these skills will inspire you to be successful and engaged.


Cost: $35.00, Light breakfast, lunch


Join us for hands-on FUN and share your challenges and successes with fellow Soroptimist!



Link for Registration: https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/2025-d4-winter/

Marketplace Interest, please call or text Rae @916-316-2174



(District 4 Fall Meeting, Sept 2024)

OFFICIAL CALL TO DISTRICT 5 WINTER FORUM

HOSTED BY SI WASHOE COUNTY


WHEN: Saturday, March 8, 2025

10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

WHERE: Sierra View Library


4001 South Virginia St. Reno, NV 89502

Located in the center of Reno Town Mall

within walking distance to Atlantis Resort.


THEME: ‘A Time to Bloom’

SPEAKER: Marie Harger, Ayurvedic Health Medicine Practitioner, ‘A Natural Path to Well-being.’

Ayurveda is an alternative medicine based on the elements found in everything that

exists. Marie will share how the ‘Science of Life’ works with individuals and groups. She

will also educate us on nutritional, life-style and herbal formulas to improve our quality

of life.


OTHER TOPICS: District 5 Director, Susan will share Federation news on the UpliftHer engagement initiative.


Representatives from each District 5 Club will share information on her club’s most

effective service program.


First Time Attendees are encouraged to attend and will receive a welcome gift.


COST: $23.00 includes beverages and a soup, salad, sandwich and dessert lunch.


CONTACT: Susan Horst, snr_district_5@sorotptismistsnr.org, 530.559.2475



REGISTRATION LINK: https://registration.soroptimistsnr.org/events/2025-d5-winter/


District 6 Winter Leadership Roundtable


Saturday February 1st, 2025

10:00 am to 1:00 pm


Zoom Meeting Only!


Click here for the Call to the District 6 Leadership Roundtable


Click here to Register


Happy New Year,


I have included some friendly reminders and upcoming Live Your Dream Awards deadlines. Please take a few minutes to read the below message. 


Your Club's 1st place LYD Awardee must be submitted by the February 1st deadline, to be included in the District and Region level judging. Please be sure to follow the online reporting form process! process! Last year, a handful of clubs did not report this way and were not counted as participating. Don’t let your hard work go to waste! Once you have successfully submitted your club report, you will receive a copy in an email confirmation. If you don’t receive a confirmation email, please email program@soroptimist.org 


If you are a new club in the region that wants to give a Live Your Dream Award this year, please apply for the new club funding! You must submit the form at this link with an eligible Live Your Dream applicant by February 1st if you would like to receive the $1,000 for your first award: https://form.jotform.com/liveyourdream/LYDA-new-club-funding-form


Application Review and Judging:


As you wrap up the application review and judging process, it’s time to finalize your decisions. Follow these important steps to ensure your club’s choices are properly recorded and communicated.

We reviewed our applications and had them judged—now what?

  • Indicate your club’s decision for EACH APPLICANT! Place the application for your top recipient in the Indicate Your Club’s Decision stage (and her application will be sent to the region chair for further judging). You will complete this step for any additional club recipients as well.
  • Please indicate your club’s decision for ALL the applications your club receives, including those you marked as No Award. That way SIA headquarters knows the club’s decision. You can use the automated emails in the application system to communicate your decisions with the applicants.
  • Be sure to download a copy of any applications your club judges and keep them for at least a year (applications that receive funding should be kept securely in club records indefinitely).
  • Don’t forget to indicate your club’s decision in the online application system, you MUST complete the the online reporting form on JotForm! Without this, your club is not considered as participating in the program.


Use the LYD Toolkit. It has lots of templates and resources to assist you through the process. https://soroptimist.imgix.net/05-for-members/Program_Resources/live-your-dream-awards-club-resources/club-participation-toolkit-north-america.pdf 


Best Wishes,

Billie


Billie Araiza

Live Your Dream Awards

Sierra Nevada Region Coordinator

2024-2026 Biennium

Sierra Nevada Region

Soroptimist International of the Americas

SI Bidwell Rancho

  • Sticker Flyer
  • License Plate Frame Flyer
  • Fashion Show - Flyer
  • Stop Human Trafficking 5K/ Flyer


SI Elk Grove

  • Avon Flyer
  • Power of the Purse (02/08/25) Flyer
  • Martini Fundraiser (03/15/25) Flyer
  • Career Expo (05/03) Flyer


SI Grass Valley

  • Zero Waste Club Kit Flyer


SI Greater Sacramento



SI Greater Las Vegas

  • Sweet Fantasy 2025 Flyer


SI Lincoln


SI Loomis Basin


SI Mineral County

  • Planet Green Recycle Flyer


SI Metropolitan Las Vegas

  • LYD Award Luncheon Flyer



SI Rancho Cordova/GR

  • Print cartridge recycling Flyer
  • e-waste recycling Flyer
  • Tru-Earth Eco-products Flyer


SI/Placerville

 "A Chocolate Affair" Flyer


SI Sacramento South

  • "Show You're a Soroptimist" Flyer
  • Bunco Flyer


SI Bidwell Rancho

SI Chico

SI Davis

SI Elk Grove

SI Grass Valley

SI Folsom/EDH

SI Lincoln

SI Loomis Basin

Find out what's happening with other SI Clubs in our region.

SI Pahrump Valley

SI Rancho Cordova/ Gold River

SI Sacramento

SI Tahoe Sierra

SI Truckee Meadows

SI Sierra Foothills

SI Woodland

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E-Blast Submission Guidelines

E-Blasts go out the 1st and 15th of each month. Email your articles, flyers or links to blastsnr@soroptimistsnr.org by the 27th of the month for E-Blast going out on the 1st, and by the 12th of the month for the E-Blast going out on the 15th.

A few pointers and notes for a successful E-Blast submission:

  • Submissions should use either Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat or can be typed into an email that I can copy and paste into the E-Blast
  • You may send me a Web Link. Ensure the link you send me works
  • Files can be no larger than 5.0mb. Constant Contact can’t handle it
  • When sending your club's Eblast, please send a direct link or a Pdf file.


I will reply that I received your submission within 48 hours. If you don’t receive my confirmation, check with me. 


Babette Maiss

SNR Eblast Coordinator