Soroptimist International of Valencia

Soroptimist International of Valencia is proud to celebrate 46 years as a charter club of Soroptimist International of the Americas. Since our charter date, December 3, 1974, SIV has contributed nearly a million dollars to local agencies and international programs aimed at improving the lives of women and girls. We are proud to be part of this amazing international organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls in Santa Clarita Valley and around the globe.

It’s time to brush up on your trivia skills, start sketching your Pictionary masterpiece and practice your Taboo as you get your game on at Soroptimist International of Valencia’s virtual Games for a Cause on Sunday, March 14, 2021! We will also be hosting a silent auction!! You don't want to miss your chance at owning one of these awesome baskets! This event is critical for the support of Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be Ittwo cornerstone programs for local women and teens.... The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards 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. Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls will help girls grow up to be strong, successful, happy adults. Dream It, Be It targets girls in secondary school who face obstacles to their future success by providing girls with access to professional role models, career education and the resources to live their dreams. There are many ways you can help support our community women and girls through this fun event, which include sponsorships, tax-deductible donations of cash and/or goods, and purchasing tickets to the event. To purchase tickets or make a donation you can visit: CharityAuction.bid/sivgames

There are many great ways to volunteer around your community. This #MLKDay, join others in giving back through service.

Soroptimist International is a strong supporter and advocate for victims and survivors of human trafficking. #stophumantrafficking

SI Valencia Newsletter - January 2021 - https://mailchi.mp/7570/si-valencia-newsletter-january-2021

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise not only in the US, but in other parts of the world, it's important to spread awareness about the unique challenges women and girls are facing during this time. Soroptimist International of the Americas has created a "COVID-19 and Women infographic," to not only show, but to also create awareness of the challenges women and girls are facing at this very moment and for years to come.

We love Melissa and are so proud of her accomplishments.

Winter doldrums got you down? Are you looking for a fun way to spend a dynamic evening of fast-paced game play while supporting programs that help women and girls in our community? If so, have we got the opportunity for you! It’s time to brush up on your trivia skills, start sketching your Pictionary masterpiece and practice your Taboo as you get your game on at Soroptimist International of Valencia’s virtual Games for a Cause on Sunday, March 14, 2021! We will also be hosti...ng a silent auction!! This event is critical for the support of Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be Ittwo cornerstone programs for local women and teens. The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards 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. Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls will help girls grow up to be strong, successful, happy adults. Dream It, Be It targets girls in secondary school who face obstacles to their future success by providing girls with access to professional role models, career education and the resources to live their dreams. There are many ways you can help support our community women and girls through this fun event, which include sponsorships, tax-deductible donations of cash and/or goods, and purchasing tickets to the event. To purchase tickets or make a donation you can visit: CharityAuction.bid/sivgames

May the New Year bring you peace, joy, and happiness.

Final night of GOODBYE 2020 fundraiser! Who is going to win the $500 Visa Gift Card?

Reminder to get your shopping pass before its too late! 46 Days till Hanukkah! 61 Days till Christmas! ... Time to get shopping! While you are getting your shop on you might as well help a good cause and get some fabulous discounts! Donate as little as $10 to Soroptimist International Of Valencia and get 10 days of VIP deals in-store at Westfield Valencia Town Center Mall. Click the link below to get started! Shopping Event runs October 23-November 1. Follow these 6 simply steps: Step 1: Go to https://shopyourheartout.westfield.com/ Step 2: Pick Westfield Valencia Town Center as your mall Step 3: Pick Soroptimist International Of Valencia as your charity Step 4: Donate $10 (or more!) Step 5: Get your VIP Kind Pass Step 6: Unlock VIP deals

DAY 30!!!!!! We are almost through the whole month. Tonight’s prize for our Goodbye 2020 fundraiser is a $25 gift card to Home Depot!

Day 29 of GOODBYE 2020 fundraiser! Tonight’s prize is a $25 gift card to Starbucks

Soroptimist's Live Your Dream Awards program is a unique education grant for women who provide the primary financial support for their families. Live Your Dream Awards give women the resources they need to improve their education, skills and employment prospects. If you know someone that might qualify for one of our awards, please pass along this information. https://members.soroptimist.org/SIA/ClubSearch.aspx #SoroptimistsAtWork

We all could use a little caffeine pick me up between Christmas and New Years. We're drawing a name tonight for a $25 Starbucks gift card. Details below on how to purchase tickets. The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day throu...gh December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

56 Days till Hanukkah! 71 Days till Christmas! Time to get shopping! While you are getting your shop on you might as well help a good cause and get some fabulous discounts! ... Donate $10 to Soroptimist International Of Valencia and get 10 days of VIP deals in-store at Westfield Valencia Town Center Mall. Click the link below to get started! Shopping Event runs October 23-November 1. Follow these 6 simply steps: Step 1: Go to https://shopyourheartout.westfield.com/ Step 2: Pick Westfield Valencia Town Center as your mall Step 3: Pick Soroptimist International Of Valencia as your charity Step 4: Donate $10 (or more!) Step 5: Get your VIP Kind Pass Step 6: Unlock VIP deals

CHECK OUT OUR EVENT SLIDE SHOW!!! Thank you to all the wonderful people who participated in our Dinner, Auction, Raffle and Fund-A-Need. This campaign has already exceeded our initial goal. BUT Soroptimist International of Valencia is not done raising funds for women in our community! We need your donations to support and help women fight their diagnosis, survive and THRIVE!!! While the Auctions have ended... the website is still active and you can still make a donation in ho...nor of our beatiful models. Just click the tab "Ribbons of Support" on the top of the page to donate today: CharityAuction.Bid/SIV17 #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport See more

Day 28 of our GOODBYE 2020 fundraiser benefiting our Live Your Dream program. Tonight’s prize is $25 Visa gift card!

It's time for our Monday Member Spotlight. This week we are featuring Cyndi Diaz. Cyndi was born in Indiana, but moved to Southern California when she was a little girl so she considers herself a California native. She lived in the O.C. for most of her life, but after meeting her husband and wanting to start a family, they landed in the SCV. Cindy has been with her husband for 40 years, and they have been married for 33 years. They have two boys Devin and Dylan. Dan has a bu...siness Double D Productions and a band called the Double Ds, so the boys were both named with D names to keep the Double D theme going. Cindy is a Software Developer for Ultimate Software. The company was ranked #2 in the Forbes 100 best companies to work for. Cindy said the ranking is well deserved, she absolutely loves working for them. Working from home affords her a lot of flexibility and the ability to listen to music while she works, which she loves to do. More about that in a minute Cindy has been with Soroptimist Valencia for approximately 12 years. She actually learned about Soroptimist many years ago when working as an escrow officer in Orange County. A woman in her office had been a Soroptimist and talked often about the club and what they do. Cindy was interested in Soroptimist and what they did, but was not ready to join at that time. Many years later, after moving to the SCV and once her boys were older, Cindy decided to pursue joining Soroptimist, and the rest is history. Cindy says joining Soroptimist was one of the best things she ever did. Second to the friendships she has developed over the years, her favorite part of being a Soroptimist is the Live Your Dream Program and learning the stories of the amazing, brave women who are part of the program. Cyndi has not only been a member in our Club but a true leader. She has served as the President, Treasurer, Parliamentarian, Chair and co-namer of the Soroptimist Empowering Women (SEW) Program - mending the lives of women and girls, Publicity Chair, Membership Chair and Newsletter Editor. Cindy’s favorite activity is being a full-time groupie to her husband and boys. Cindy’s husband Dan is a talented guitar player and singer who has touried with Grammy Award winning artists including The Emotions and Deneice Williams. He and both sons are all musicians in their own right, and each have multiple music projects and bands that they are a part of. When she is not listening to music or attending one of her men’s performances, she is busy being a cat mom to new kittens Rufus and Chaka Kahn.

It's time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!! This week we feature Karen Lyons Spencer!!! Karen Lyons Spencer is the daughter and granddaughter of coal miners from the hills of Virginia. She grew up with a large family, being the youngest of six, three boys and three girls. Her mom was one of nine and her dad one of six. She had to move to Miami, Florida when the coal mines shut down and her father was offered a job. Tragically, her father was killed in a robbery. After her moth...er remarried the family moved to California. Karen has lived in the same home for 33 years and has three children, two boys, Shawn and Ryan who live in Santa Clarita and one daughter, Katie who lives in Boston. Karen has worked with her husband in the family aerospace business for 30 years and also had a part time at Pier 1 Imports. She has always volunteered around the community, Henry Mayo, the Food Pantry. Karen also currently works as an usher at the Preforming Arts Center at COC. Having seen all the good work that Soroptimist was doing around the community Karen felt it was a natural fit that she join. She loves how SIV supports all the nonprofits in SCV and she especially loves doing her part. Having been raised a Southern Baptist it was always a part of her home and upbringing to serve others. In her free time Karen loves to travel. A few of her favorite places she has visited are Egypt, Scotland and Ireland. She is a big Outlander fan and enjoyed taking an Outlander tour last year in Scotland. Karen also enjoys spending her time reading. She loves to read and then exchange books. She especially loves Downton Abbey and all things British. Karen is also an animal lover and currently has a wonderful, spirited Siberian Husky that takes her for walks daily.

Day 27! GOODBYE 2020 fundraiser. Tonight’s prize is a $50 gift card to the Cheesecake Factory!

Day 26! GOODBYE 2020 raffle benefiting our Live Your Dreams program. Tonight’s prize is $100 to Larsen’s Steakhouse. Yum!

What would you do with an extra $500?! Don't miss your chance to be the lucky winner of our $500 Visa gift card drawing on December 31. Details below on how to purchase tickets.... The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day through December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

LIVE OPPORTUNITY DRAWING

Thank you for watching Soroptimist International of Valencia's XVII - 17 Years of Support!!! Auction ends at 10pm so LET'S RAISE SOME SERIOUS $$$ CharityAuction.Bid/SIV17 Bidding ends at 10pm tonight!... Now is the time to support and help women fight their diagnosis, survive and THRIVE!!! #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport See more

Day 25! Christmas Day drawing for GOODBYE 2020 fundraiser. Prize is $200 to the Ivy Day Spa.

Today is the day!!! XVII is HERE! Enjoy and share this recap of all 17 videos. Visit our auction website: CharityAuction.Bid/SIV17 Visit our facebook page at 7pm to watch our virtual program: https://www.facebook.com/SIValenciaCA Stop by Wolf Creek Brewery to see the Bras and Raffle baskets in person!... Bidding ends at 10pm tonight! Now is the time to support and help women fight their diagnosis, survive and THRIVE. #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport See more

May this Christmas fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter. Merry Christmas!!

The ladies of @Soroptimist International of Valencia have been supporting women in Santa Clarita with breast cancer for over 17 years! Our annual "Bras for a Cause" event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help women fight their diagnosis, survive and THRIVE. This year we are continuing that mission virtually. For the next 17 days we will be celebrating 17 Years of Support by releasing a video each day hosted by our very own club members! It's Day 17 and Melanie C...ristescu and Chrissy Gonzales is here to share their Basket and Bra: Dream It Be It Bra Maker: Stephanie Beaty BIDDING STARTS NOW: charityauction.bid/SIV17 #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport See more

Day 24 of our GOODBYE 2020 raffle. Tonight’s prize is $100 Amazon gift card!

We are gearing up for Saturday and are super excited. Have you seen the opportunity drawing baskets? There were 10 baskets but we got an amazing last donation we’re going to surprise you with! https://event.auctria.com//57b0bb5005bd11eb877553708a755031

Early drawing for the 23rd night of our Goodbye 2020 fundraiser due to power outage and lots of technical difficulties . Drawing is for $32 gift card to Color Me Mine.

We are saddened to hear of the recent passing of one of our former members, Diana Vose. Diana was an active member in many service organizations throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, as well as having been the Foundation President for Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. She touched so many lives and made an impact on many. We will always remember Diana and the way she demonstrated grace, compassion and professionalism in everything she did.

The ladies of Soroptimist International of Valencia have been supporting women in Santa Clarita with breast cancer for over 17 years! Our annual "Bras for a Cause" event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help women fight their diagnosis, survive and THRIVE. This year we are continuing that mission virtually. For the next 17 days we will be celebrating 17 Years of Support by releasing a video each day hosted by our very own club members! It's Day 16 and Melissa Ta...ub-Rogers is here to share her Basket and Bra: Live Your Dream Bra Maker: Stephanie Sewell BIDDING STARTS NOW: charityauction.bid/SIV17 #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport See more

XVII - 17 Years of Support It's not too late to support women in need! Check out this amazing fundraiser and join Soroptimist International in their mission to improve the lives of women and girls! BIDDING HAS STARTED: charityauction.bid/SIV17 #SoroptimistsAtWork #BFAC2020 #SIValencia #17YearsOfSupport

Who doesn't love chocolate?! Tonight's gift card is for $25 to See's Candy. Perfect time of year to stock up on candy! Don't miss out on your chance to win and buy your tickets today! Details below on how to purchase tickets.... The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day through December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

It's time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!! This week we feature Chrissy Rescigno!!! Chrissy Rescigno may have been born and raised in New Jersey but, she now calls California her home, having settled in Santa Clarita in 1988 with her daughter Danielle, who is a Special Education Teacher for the Burbank School District. Chrissy has a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology. She also earned credentials in marriage and famil...y therapy and school counseling. During the span of her thirty five and a half year career working for LAUSD she was an Elementary School Teacher, Guidance Counselor and Assistant Principal. She retired from education in 2016. She is really into health and fitness. In her free time Chrissy loves to workout. One of her biggest accomplishments in sports is competing in three different bodybuilding competitions at the ages of 55 and 56. When she isn’t working out Chrissy also loves to travel and is hoping to be able to travel again soon. Her bucket list places to visit are Spain and Portugal. Chrissy became a member of Soroptimist International of Valencia through member Suzanne Stone, who she met at several Lia Sophia Jewelry parties. It was during those parties that Suzanne spoke to Chrissy about Soroptimist and all the great things they do around the community. Chrissy knew she wanted to join this wonderful organization of women. When she retired she knew it was the perfect time to join, since she now had the time she wanted to devote to it. Since joining she has been involved in many committees and has also been on the board for two years, one year as Vice President and currently serves as Director of Games for a Cause. When asked what her favorite memory has been as a member of Soroptimist Chrissy stated, It would have to be when I had the honor of being a model for Bras for a Cause. It was very exciting to get up on stage and strut my stuff and also help raise a lot of money for breast cancer.

Christmas is only 5 days away, if you're looking for the perfect gift consider making a donation in someone's name to Soroptimist International of Valencia this holiday season. https://sivalencia.org/donate/

Tonight's drawing is for $100 gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods--think of all the awesome things you could get with that!! Be sure to purchase your tickets today before 5 pm to be entered into our next drawing. Details below on how to purchase tickets.... The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day through December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

Will you be our next winner? It's not too late to buy tickets!! Tonight's drawing is for a $50 gift card to Sharkey's!!! Tune in at 7 pm tonight to see if you're the lucky winner. Details below on how to purchase tickets.... The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day through December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

We still have AMAZING gift cards to give away this month!! Be sure to purchase your tickets today to be entered into our next drawing. Details below on how to purchase tickets. The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day through D...ecember 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

It's time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!! This week we feature Staci Daniels-Sommers!! Staci is a proud Midwesterner (Go Blue!) who has lived in the Santa Clarita Valley for 4 years. She is a licensed clinical social worker providing culturally responsive psychotherapy to clients across California. Staci is also a diversity, inclusion, and equity consultant, specializing in facilitating difficult dialogues across difference. Staci and her rocket scientist husband are proud p...arents of a five year-old boy and one year-old girl. In addition to being a Soroptimist, she's a member of JCI Santa Clarita and is a member of the Child and Family Center Board of Directors. In her free time, she enjoys watching Detroit and LA sports teams, going on adventures on the hiking trails, and Zooming with her buddies!

To all those who celebrate, we wish you a Healthy and Happy Hanukkah!

This holiday season what better way to give back and also give yourself a chance at winning any of the AMAZING gift cards we're live drawing all month long?! You could be our next winner. Details below on how to purchase tickets. The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift... cards. A live drawing will be held every day through December 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

It's time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!! This week we feature Monica Muniz!!! Monica is Mexican-American with Spaniard descent, who was born in Mexico City. She arrived in Los Angeles when she was just shy of two years old. Monica, her husband, Roan, and her daughter, Isabella, have lived in SCV since 2018. Monica has two older sons. Eric, who is married and has two children, Josiah and Aryah. Andrew who is 23 and is into personal training. Monica is co-founder of Monikas Ta...cos, a catering business which specializes in cooking on site and bringing the five star restaurant to the comfort of your home. Monica along with her husband Roan Gomez, co-founder established Monikas Tacos in 2018, where tapas and tacos meet authentic third generation recipes." Monikas Tacos is a platform for their upcoming catering business R & M Catering; specializing in a variety of American Mexican food. A few of Monica's favorites are reading, running, salsa dancing, and having Sunday brunch! Spending time with family and friends is a creative way she enjoys cooking and serving her family. Through food, music and culture she expresses her love for those in her inner circle. Monica enjoys giving back to her community in service, gift offerings or simply blessing someone with a meal. Monica is a newbie to SIV who decided to join during the 2020 pandemic. However, her love offering to serve others is indescribable. Always putting others before her, she is very selfless and has a passion for helping others. She discovered SIV through Amanda Turner. Amanda and Monica met at a networking meeting. Amanda, a member of SIV approached Monikas Tacos about catering an event for SIV that is held every year called Boots n Barrels." Monikas Tacos has been a part of several events representing SIV and what it stands for. It made perfect sense to become a member during one of the most difficult years our generation has encountered. To support women and girls during these tough times has been one of the most rewarding feelings. It takes a broken girl, to uplift Women & Girls who will be able to pay it forward and never deny where their strength and healing came from. To recognize, never broken, always healed and empowered to be and dream all that I can be!

SI Valencia Newsletter - December 2020 - https://mailchi.mp/cae/si-valencia-newsletter-december-2020

This Giving Tuesday why not give yourself a chance at winning 31 AWESOME gift cards while supporting a worthy cause at the same time?! The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day December 1st through 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

It’s time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!! This week we feature Anabelle Espe!! Anabelle was born in the Philippines but has lived in California most of her life. She was raised in the Bay Area and then moved to So Cal when she was 20. She has lived in Santa Clarita with her husband, John, and their two daughters, Samantha and Kaitlyn, for over 15 years. Anabelle works as a family law paralegal at the Law Offices of Steven B. Chroman. She began her work in the legal field over... 12 years ago after switching her career to learn more about family law after her own dealings within the system. Prior to switching careers, she worked in television as an accounting and HR manager for 15 years. She is currently a part-time college student with ambitions to continue her education and further her career. Anabelle’s passion is in event planning and all things creative; it is definitely her happy place! Some of her favorite activities are hanging out with her family and pets, watching animal videos while laughing hysterically, visiting with family, and watching Marvel movies. She also enjoys reading, crafting, obsessing over video games, playing with make-up and costumes, spending time with great friends and eating great food, and travelling the world while tasting fun drinks around the globe. Anabelle joined Soroptimist International of Valencia (SIV) in 2019 after coming to a few events and seeing the amazing work that was being done within her own neighborhood. Anabelle has had a passion for helping others most of her life and she wanted to continue that and to teach her children to give back. By joining Soroptimist, she is now directly involved with helping those within her community and globally. Anabelle’s favorite memories with SIV is during the meetings when women share their stories of how Soroptimist has helped them. The direct connection made with others and how it really benefits them is what drives her continued involvement with SIV.

As you begin your Black Friday shopping what better way to support a good cause while also giving yourself a chance to win 31 of our AMAZING giftcards?! You don't want to miss out on this. The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every... day December 1st through 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!!

"Be present in all things and thankful for all things." Maya Angelou Thank you to our amazing sponsors, donors and everyone who has helped us give back to women in our community. Today and everyday we are thankful for you. Wishing everyone a Happy and safe Thanksgiving!

It's time for another Member Spotlight, and this week we feature Janine Jones!!! Janine Ragen Jones has been a resident of Santa Clarita Valley since 1972. After teaching fourth grade for the Sulphur Springs School District, she became an Attorney Negotiator for State Farm, where she remained until her first child was born in 1993.... After 18 years as a stay-at-home mom, Janine enrolled in cosmetology school at the same time her first-born daughter enrolled in college. Janine now works as a licensed makeup artist and hair stylist in Valencia. Janine has made it a mission in her life to serve where needed. She strives to make a positive impact on the people and organizations she is involved with in the Santa Clarita Valley. She uses her knowledge and passion to instill a sense of community to her volunteer work and leverages resources to benefit the mission of each organization. Janine has been involved with the Soroptimist International of Valencia as an official member for two years but has been involved with the organization for decades. She has designed and decorated a bra to be auctioned at Bra’s for a Cause for the past 16 years. Janine has proudly attended a total of 15 BFAC fundraiser events and has been featured as a guest speaker and recently a model in the show. She is immensely proud to be affiliated with such a philanthropic organization that focuses on advancing women and girls for the betterment of themselves and thus the world. The quality of women she has met and befriended in this organization has inspired her to continue her volunteer activities on a deeper level. Some of the many other non-profit groups that Janine is or has been involved with are Soroptomist International of Greater SCV, American Cancer Society, Circle of Hope, SRD-Straightening Reins, Bridge to Home, College of the Canyon Foundation, American Diabetes Association, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation, MNMH’s Women’s Philanthropy Advisory Council, Santa Clarita Ballet Academy, St. Clare Catholic Church; Santa Clarita Elementary School PTC, Saugus High School Booster Club, SCV Nonprofit event Dancing With Our Stars: and, Hopi Native American Tribe.

This year we wanted to have a countdown we could all get on board with---GOOD BYE 2020! What better way to kiss 2020 Goodbye than by offering 31 different ways you could win an awesome gift card?! This end of year opportunity drawing is not only a fun way to count down the last 31 days of the year BUT ALSO another chance to support women in Santa Clarita! The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given dire...ctly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gift cards. A live drawing will be held every day December 1st through 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!! See more

There are some who bring a light so great into the world that even after they have gone the light remains Cheri Fleming was such a person. As a community leader, volunteer, philanthropist and business woman, there was no project too big, no problem too difficult to tackle--and she was never too busy to listen.... Cheri had a way of making everyone around her feel special, worthwhile and powerful. That’s because Cheri viewed every single person she met as having great potential inside them. You just need to know what to say to bring out their gift, she often said. And Cheri knew just how to do that. As a Soroptimist, Cheri was a force of nature, and her impact on the organization was felt world round. She became a member in 1999, and as she moved from local club president to regional governor to international president, overseeing more than 36,000 members in 20 countries, she treated every position as though it was the most important in the world, inspiring and creating other leaders to follow in her footsteps. Cheri supported Soroptimist International of Valencia with the same grace, sass and dedication she applied to everything she did. We are so grateful that we were able to celebrate with her one last time, at our September 2020 XII: 17 Years of Support Bras for a Cause fundraiser. While we are saddened by this very great loss of our sister, our community member, and our friend, we know Cheri’s legacy and spirit will live on in everyone who was blessed to know her. Our hearts are broken. But we take comfort in the fact that we know Cheri would want us all to remember her with the enthusiasm and joy she brought to everything she did. In Loving Memory Cheri Fleming 1951-2020 If you would like to honor Cheri’s legacy, the Fleming family would request donations be made to the Cheri Fleming Legacy Fund for the betterment of women and girls throughout the world. https://go.soroptimist.org/in-memoriam/cheri-fleming/

Festival of Trees begins TOMORROW and we can’t wait to kick-off the holiday season in support of Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley!! The event will be held at Westfield Valencia Town Center from Nov 18th-24th. Our generous members got together to create this amazing WINE TREE for the event. It has 55 bottles of wine, a $50 gift certificate for toffee donated by Toffee DeJour and wood ornaments created and donated by Salt & Vine Boutique. The whole tree is valued at over $1,700. A special thank you to Jeb Beaty and Stephanie Beaty for designing and building the tree. Please visit www.scvbgc.org/festival-of-trees for additional information or https://fotgala2020.ggo.bid/bidding/package-browse to bid !

It’s time for another Member Spotlight, and this week we feature a new member, Missi Hickam. Missi has been living in Santa Clarita since 1975, and fondly recalls the days when the city's mall was just an onion field and the population in Valencia was a mere 12,500 people. Recently leaving the corporate world, Missi now owns Crumbatorium Bakery, where she spends her days covered in Royal Icing, and whipping up deliciously wicked bakes to share with others. Missi and her hus...band, Kevin, have been together 26 years and have one son, Ridley. When Missi isn't donning her whisk and apron, she loves Halloween, DIY projects, music, and her favorite black cat, Coal. Missi joined Soroptimist because she feels her desire to serve others is more than just a calling; it's her duty. The opportunities she has gained through membership in Soroptimist, especially in helping women and young girls, she considers to be a privilege. See more

SI Valencia Newsletter - November 2020 - https://mailchi.mp//si-valencia-newsletter-october-12897031

We have money to GIVE AWAY!! Do you or someone you know qualify? Please share with friends and family---there may be someone you know who could really use the help during these times. Deadline to apply is this Sunday, November 15. Don't miss out!

2020 is coming to a close and this year we REALLY want to celebrate!!! This end of year opportunity drawing is not only a fun way to count down the last 31 days of the year BUT ALSO another chance to support women in Santa Clarita! The proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to fund our Live Your Dream grant program. These funds will be given directly to women in our community who are continuing their educational journey. Our members have graciously donated 31 amazing gif...t cards. A live drawing will be held every day December 1st through 31st. Your Multi-Draw ticket(s) will be entered into every drawing so you have a chance to win multiple prizes. To purchase tickets you can visit: CharityAuction.Bid/GoodBye2020 -OR- PayPal through the "Donate" button on our website SIValencia.org -OR- give your check or cash to a Soroptimist member Let's come together and empower some deserving women!!! See more

To all the men and women who have bravely served our country, today and everyday we honor you. Thank you for your service.

It’s time for another Member Spotlight, and this week we feature a new member, Heather DeAngelis Hambleton! Heather, is a New York native. She moved to Valencia a year ago to be closer to family. A psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker for over 20 years, Heather works with children, teens, adults, and professionals to overcome behavioral, relationship, and achievement challenges so they can thrive in life. In addition to her private practice, Heather facilitate...s telehealth support groups and gives workshops and trainings to businesses, schools, and hospitals on various mental health topics. Heather is a single mom to a horse-loving, joke-telling, cartwheel-obsessed ten year old girl, who is the light of her life. They are loving their new home in Valencia and the warm California sunshine! They are also loving their new Coronavirus puppy named Beau, a 6 month old Cavapoo, who violates social distancing rules with anyone he meets (aka, puppy kisses for everyone!). Heather joined Soroptimist after a fellow therapist/member described it as similar to the Junior League. Heather, a 10 year member & officer of The New York City Junior League, an organization committed to promoting volunteerism, believes strongly in giving back to her new, adopted community of Valencia and empowering girls to become influential leaders. When she isn’t helping clients unlock their full potential or serving on the PTA board, Heather can be found spending time watching true crime documentaries, tackling a Sudoku puzzle, or at the horse barn with her daughter. Or at Home Goods, her most favorite place on earth!

Helping women in our community is so important, if you or anyone you know qualifies please be sure to apply. The November 15 deadline is soon approaching. Soroptimist's Live Your Dream Awards program is a unique education grant for women who provide the primary financial support for their families. Live Your Dream Awards give women the resources they need to improve their education, skills and employment prospects. If you know someone that might qualify for one of our awards, please pass along this information. https://members.soroptimist.org/SIA/ClubSearch

It’s time for another MEMBER SPOTLIGHT!!!! This week we feature Nicole Marr!!!! Meet our current Co-President! Nicole Marr is a California native. Nicole, Andy, and their blended family Mia, Gigi, Nate and Emily have lived in SCV since 2004, and has had family in the SCV for 25 years. Nicole has been in the beauty industry for 23 years and currently is the VP of Field Sales, Education and Events for Stila Cosmetics. Through an interesting twist of fate, Nicole actually went... to college to be a newscaster but got into beauty her last semester. She graduated, but continued to work in beauty, and the rest is history. Nicole is creative and artistic. She has a love of art, being creative, and of course she is a huge makeup junkie! Some of Nicole’s favorite activities are reading, baking, hanging with friends and tasting wine! And, when she gets the chance, she loves to attend the occasional LA Galaxy soccer game with her family. Nicole came to SIV by way of her love of art and a common bond. She became a big fan of Pinot’s Palette as an artistic outlet and found a common bond with the owner, Stephanie Sewell (Soroptimist), when she learned both their husbands were in law enforcement. The bond grew into a friendship and Nicole began donating Stila products for Soroptimist raffle baskets and SIV events. Upon learning more about where the baskets were being used, and the worthy causes of SIV, Nicole attended the SIV Summer Wine Down event and joined that very night. Nicole’s favorite memory since being part of SIV was her first Boots and Barrels event. She said it was a great moment for her to be with all the SIV members hanging out and having fun for a good cause. Nicole is very athletic and always on the move. In fact, one time she bought a pass to do a 5k run in wine country and found out others in SIV were going and it became a group thing! The run as it turns out was cancelled due to rain, but the ladies all went and had a blast! These are just a few examples of how Nicole has been such an amazing source of energy and action in our club. We are so lucky to have her as one of our Co-Presidents this year.

Pandemic Blues getting you down? Want more fun and friendship in your life? Would you like to help improve the lives of women and girls? If you answered "YES!" to any of the above, it's time for you to find out what Soroptimist International of Valencia is all about! ... Join Us and Become a Soroptimist! When women help other women, amazing things happen! Our clubs and members breathe life into our programs and truly come together to make a difference for women and girls worldwide. When you join our Soroptimist club, you have the opportunity to connect with like-minded women, build life-long friendships and take advantage of networking opportunities. There is so much for everyone, and right now, becoming involved in an organization that keeps you in touch and keeps you moving forward with joy and purpose may be just the ticket! Please reach out to our Director of Membership, Laura Chesler, at [email protected] and she will be in touch with information, or to answer any questions you may have. You may also visit https://www.soroptimist.org//for-/membership-benefits.html for more information on the many benefits of SIV membership. We hope to hear from you soon!

Reminder to get your shopping pass before its too late! 46 Days till Hanukkah! 61 Days till Christmas! ... Time to get shopping! While you are getting your shop on you might as well help a good cause and get some fabulous discounts! Donate as little as $10 to Soroptimist International Of Valencia and get 10 days of VIP deals in-store at Westfield Valencia Town Center Mall. Click the link below to get started! Shopping Event runs October 23-November 1. Follow these 6 simply steps: Step 1: Go to https://shopyourheartout.westfield.com/ Step 2: Pick Westfield Valencia Town Center as your mall Step 3: Pick Soroptimist International Of Valencia as your charity Step 4: Donate $10 (or more!) Step 5: Get your VIP Kind Pass Step 6: Unlock VIP deals