Soroptimist is an international organization of business and professional women who work to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. We are a global volunteer organization that economically empowers women and girls by providing access to education, the single most effective anti-poverty intervention. Over 80,000 Soroptimists in 122 countries and territories contribute time and financial support to community–based and international projects that benefit women and girls.

The name, Soroptimist, means "best for women," and that's what the organization strives to achieve. Soroptimists are women at their best, working to help other women to be their best.

Soroptimist International of Arcata was chartered January 9, 1951, with 12 members.  The first president was Cynthia Schwenson.  In honor of Cynthia Schwenson,
 its signature project, providing scholarships to senior high school girls who are continuing their education after graduation, was so named.

Women and girls have the resources and  opportunities to reach their full potential  and live their dreams.  

Soroptimist also sponsors Live Your Dream.org, an online community empowering offline volunteer action. The self-motivated network is made up of people who wish to support women and girls in their quest to lead better lives, while gaining inspiration in their own lives. Members of the free online community work on topics such as women’s economic empowerment, ending violence against women, human trafficking, and more. They also have access to inspirational articles, tips, and blogs that can help them live their own personal dreams. 

Soroptimist's Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women assist women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families by giving them the resources they need to improve their education, skills and employment prospects.

Every year, Soroptimist distributes more than $2 million in education grants to about 1,500 women all over the world. Over half of our Live Your Dream Awards recipients are survivors of domestic violence, trafficking or sexual assault. Nearly all of the women and families we serve have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, teen pregnancy, and drug or alcohol addiction.

Live Your Dream Awards recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, such as books, childcare, tuition and transportation. This unique program is helping women find their voice and purpose while offering the resources they need to succeed.