Who We Are
Our Club
Welcome to Soroptimist International of South Bay!
(Formerly Soroptimist International of Manhattan Beach)
Since 1953, we've been championing women and girls throughout the South Bay—starting in Manhattan Beach and now reaching communities from Santa Monica to Long Beach! Our new name, Soroptimist International of South Bay, celebrates our incredible legacy while embracing the broader region we proudly serve.
We’re a vibrant group of volunteers—professionals, educators, and community leaders—committed to creating opportunities for women and girls to thrive. Through mentorship, education, and hands-on programs, we help individuals overcome obstacles and rewrite their stories.
What We Do:
Live Your Dream Awards – Financial support for women pursuing education while supporting their families.
Dream It, Be It – Mentorship and career-building workshops for teen girls in underserved communities.
Community Impact Projects – We tackle challenges like period poverty, mental health awareness, breast cancer support, and human trafficking prevention—with compassion and collaboration.
We believe in the power of community, connection, and action. Whether you’re looking to make a difference, meet like-minded changemakers, or support our mission—there’s a place for you here.
Get Involved:
Explore our programs, attend an event, or become a member—however you choose to connect, you’ll be part of something meaningful.
Soroptimist International of South Bay
Empowering Women. Changing Lives. Right here in the South Bay.
Our Roots
Soroptimist was formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join these types of organizations. Our name, loosely translated from the Latin, means best for women. Our club, Soroptimist of Manhattan Beach, celebrating over 70 years helping women and girls throughout the South Bay area, is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas federation. Today, in our federation we have over 25,000 members and supporters in countries across North America, Latin America and the Pacific Rim. We are one of five federations that make up Soroptimist International, which has clubs in more than 120 countries throughout the world.
Become a member
We strive to bring together women who share a desire to implement empowering programs to the women and girls in our community in an atmosphere of enjoyment and friendship. Everyone is encouraged to become familiar with all the projects of the club as well as what 120,000 members and supporters in more than 120 countries and territories do throughout the world. Each year we select leaders for committees and administrative positions and we welcome people of all backgrounds who have skills to contribute and wish to develop new skills. We know there are a lot of other claims on the time of busy people and we hope to assist each member in making the most of her Soroptimist experience.
