[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 173 (Monday, November 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN HONOR OF THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF 
                                MODESTO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DENNIS A. CARDOZA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2011

  Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join the members of 
Soroptimist International of Modesto in celebration of the club's 75th 
Anniversary. It is my privilege to honor this organization that has for 
so many years remained committed to a world where women and girls 
together achieve their individual and collective potential, realize 
aspirations, and have an equal voice in creating strong, peaceful 
communities worldwide.
  Soroptimist International of Modesto was chartered November 28, 1936 
with 120 members. It has since grown to an organization of dedicated 
members committed to volunteer service. For seventy-five years, SI of 
Modesto has worked tirelessly to improve the lives and status of women 
and girls locally and around the world. Its members strive daily to 
uphold the organization's values of human rights for all, global peace 
and international goodwill, advancing women's potential, integrity and 
democratic decision making, and promoting volunteerism, diversity, and 
friendship. Through regular meetings featuring guest speakers and 
programs, the members are able to network, collaborate on ideas, and 
stay informed on the various issues affecting women throughout the 
world.
  Among the organization's top priorities is a devotion to supporting 
service projects in our community, throughout the Nation, and worldwide 
in such areas as education, environment, health, human rights and 
status of women, international goodwill, and social and economic 
development. Over the years, the club has worked collaboratively with 
other Soroptimist groups on various projects to serve the residents of 
our community. These projects include the Medical Outreach Mobile, the 
``Live Your Dream'' event for young girls, the Soroptimist Community 
Christmas Tree, the Youth Literacy Program, Modesto Junior College's 
Soroptimist Youth Learning Center, and the Salvation Army homeless 
shelter medical assistance project.
  The organization has also provided monetary support, service, and 
volunteer time to such community organizations as Memorial Hospital, 
the McHenry Mansion, Interfaith Ministries, Haven Women's Center, Girl 
Scouts of America, and Foothill Horizon Outdoor Education, and many 
other important programs. The club also strives to ensure that women 
have access to equal education by providing cash awards for 
scholarships and recognition programs; thus, taking important steps to 
assist women in their professional careers and personal lives.
  It is truly an honor to have a local chapter located in California's 
18th Congressional District, whose efforts have made a positive impact 
on the community and in the lives that its services have touched. Its 
members truly exemplify benevolence and set a high level of excellence 
for all to admire and follow. It is a pleasure to represent Soroptimist 
International of Modesto in Congress and to pay tribute to their 
seventy-five years of service and success.

                          ____________________