Our meeting on 5 March 2009, coincided with Fairtrade fortnight.  In order to highlight the problems of trafficking in the chocolate trade, Soroptimists sponsored a chocolate fountain in the bar of Wates House at the University.  Members and visitors to the Wates bar enjoyed the fountain and were offered information about trafficking.

 Above, members Alison, Ruth and former President Carole indulge.

As the celebrations of 50 years of Soroptimism in Guildford and District begin, we have planted a Ginkgo tree in Guildford Arboretum in Onslow Village.  The ginkgo is also known as the Maidenhair Tree.  It should eventually grow to 70-150′ and in Autumn, its leaves will turn a golden yellow - hence our choice to celebrate our 50 years. 

In the meantime, our tree will help with one of the Soroptimist Programme Focus Objectives - that of mitigating climate change.

 On Saturday 15 November, the Guildford Choral Society (”GCS”) invited the Soroptimists of Guildford and District to hold a retiring collection in aid of President Carole’s chosen charity, the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, at Guildford Cathedral.  Having enjoyed a superb rendition of Belshazzar’s Feast, over a thousand music lovers were generous in their support and we were delighted to raise in excess of £1800 towards the work of the Hospice.

The photograph shows President Carole on the right with Soroptimist member Elizabeth, in front of the small display we had on the evening to inform concert go-ers about Soroptimism generally and in particular Soroptimism in Guildford.

A few of the unloved clothes

Guildford and District’s first ever Swishing Party

Hosted by President Carole early in July, Guildford and District held its first ever Swishing Party*.  Being a Soroptimist event, plenty of food and wine was supplied.  A good time was had by all, especially those who managed to grab a bargain and £500 was raised for the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, President Carole’s chosen charity.

*Swishing - bring along your unwanted clothes and take away someone else’s unloved items for a small fee!!

Market Stall - 5 July 2008

Members manned a stall at Guildford’s annual street market, selling a good selection of books, plants and cakes to raise money for Project SIerra. Members were on site from 8 in the morning to late afternoon and were pleased to raise in excess of £300 which was a good start to this year’s Project SIerra fundraising.