Soroptimist International of Chico Records
Finding aid created by California State University, Chico staff using RecordEXPRESS
California State University, Chico
2020
California State University, Chico, Special Collections Meriam Library
400 West First Street
Chico, California 95929-0295
(530) 898-6603
SpecialCollections@csuchico.edu
http://www.csuchico.edu/special-collections/
Title: Soroptimist International of Chico Records
Dates: 1930-2000
Collection Number: MSS 283
Creator/Collector:
Soroptimist International of Chico
Extent: Items: 79 boxes Linear Feet: 31
Repository:
California State University, Chico
Chico, California 95929-0295
Abstract: The collection contains meeting minutes, newsletters, press books, song books, scrapbooks, financial reports, programs, bylaws,
publicity, and correspondence of the Soroptimist International of Chico.
Language of Material: English
Collection is open for research without restriction.
The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary
property.
Soroptimist International of Chico Records. California State University, Chico
Gift of Soroptimist International of Chico
Biography/Administrative History
Soroptimist International was founded in 1921 in Oakland, California. The name Soroptimist is derived from Latin soror meaning
sister, and optima meaning best, interpreted to mean “best for women.” It is an international service organization of women
in professional and management positions with the goal of improving the status of women and advancing human rights. Soroptimist
International of Chico club was chartered by Emma Wilson in 1930. The club makes scholarships to young people and training
awards to women re-entering the workforce. The club holds a Home Garden and Antique show annually as a fundraising event.
The organization was involved in many community projects like founding of the Chico Museum.
Scope and Content of Collection
The majority of the collection contains Presidents’ series to include the following subjects: Anniversary, Attendance, Audit,
Awards, Birthday of the organization, Board Meetings, Budget, Business Meetings, Bylaws, Charter, Club Survey, Committees,
Annual Reports, Committees, Correspondence, Friendship Links, Installation, Newsletters, Newspaper Articles, Membership, Officers,
Programs, Publicity, Retreat, Service, Treasurer’s Report, Youth Programs and Press Books. Also included are the records
of the Home Garden and Antique show as well as other special projects, programs and events such as Steps without Fear, an
anti-land mine campaign, the Chico Museum founding, funding the Chico Library. There is also information on the club founding
in the historical data files as well as scrapbooks, music and songbooks.
Women volunteers in social service -- California.
Women -- California -- Chico -- History.
Women -- California Chico -- Societies and clubs
Soroptimist International of Chico -- Archives
Chico (Calif.) -- History.