About Us
Soroptimist International of River Valley
2020 Dreamers Club Award recipient presented by Soroptimist International of America
About Soroptimist International of River Valley
Women Helping Women. Strengthening Our Community.
Founded in March 2000, Soroptimist International of River Valley (SIRV) is a vibrant group of women from different generations and backgrounds who share a common goal: improving the lives of women and girls in Grants Pass and surrounding Southern Oregon communities.
Our members work together to raise funds, provide educational scholarships and awards, develop meaningful community service programs, and build lasting friendships. Through volunteerism and community partnerships, we create opportunities that empower women and girls to achieve their dreams.
The name Soroptimist is loosely translated from Latin as "Best for Women." SIRV is one of five Soroptimist clubs in Southern Oregon and part of an international organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls around the world.
Come Meet Us!
We welcome women of all ages who are interested in friendship, community involvement, and making a positive difference.
We meet weekly at the Black Forest Restaurant in Grants Pass, Oregon. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome!
For meeting details or membership information, please contact:
Linda Garrick: 541-226-4032
Gwen Luhring: 541-218-5559
We'd love to meet you and share how you can make a difference with SIRV!
Our Vision
Our vision is one where women and girls have the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential and live their dreams.
Our Mission
Our mission as Soroptimist volunteers is to provide women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.
Our Core Values
Gender Equality: Women and girls live free from discrimination
Empowerment: Women and girls are free to act in their own best interest.
Education: Women and girls deserve to lead full and productive lives through education.
Diversity & Fellowship: Women from varied backgrounds and perspectives work together to improve the lives of women and girls.
Translating Our Mission into Action
-Live Your Dream Award
Since 1972, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards program (formerly the Women's Opportunity Awards) has disbursed more than $30 million to tens of thousands of women who have overcome poverty, domestic and sexual violence, divorce, the death of a spouse, or other life challenges. The Live Your Dream Award is for a woman who is enrolled in an undergraduate degree program or trade/training program and is the primary financial provider for herself and dependents. Other requirements are required on the application.
Applications are available online starting August 1.
Applications must be received by November 15, 2025.
Soroptimist International River Valley also funds three scholarships awarded through Rogue Community College Foundation. They are:
The Mel Quimby Scholarship
The Vera Quimby Scholarship
The River Valley Scholarship
Our Impact
