Strong Girls Strong Women

Soroptimist Strong Girls Strong Women is Soroptimist International of Ashland’s Signature Project, initiated in September, 2008.

This program, In partnership with Helman Elementary School,  is designed to empower girls and build self-esteem and confidence through our Lunch Buddy program and STEM, career awareness, and environmental stewardship classes.

Soroptimist Strong Girls Strong Women
©2009 Soroptimist International of Ashland

Become a Lunch Buddy

Once a month, on the first, second, or third Thursday during the school year, have lunch with a girl from grades 2-5 at Helman Elementary School. By providing undivided attention to these young persons for a half hour each month, Lunch Buddies make an important impact on them. We have seen growth in self-confidence and a broadening of future dreams in girls who have participated.If you are a woman who wants to make a difference in the life of a young girl, contact us.

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Grades K-1

Every girl in grades K-1 receives a book with a strong female character as a gift from Soroptimist, including a book plate personalizing the book.

Grades 2-5

Girls in grades 2-5 who elect to participate can have Lunch Buddy, a woman who has lunch with the girl once a month. Mentors are Soroptimists, AAUW members, or from the community at large, with an interest in supporting the development of young girls. Girls who participate exhibit increased confidence and delight in the developing relationship with someone who gives her undivided attention for this brief time each month.

Grades 4-5

Girls in Grades 4-5 can participate in an after-school program with three elements:

Fall Program: exploring a science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) project.

Winter Program: exploring careers through field trips to see women in exciting and interesting non-traditional jobs.

Spring Program: environmental stewardship and ecology.