Northwestern Region

SI Kalispell Success Brings
SI Bigfork Into the Fold

by Sherry Sellers,
Club Internet Coordinator
SI Kalispell, Montana

Charter Officers of SI Big Fork with NWR Governor Dede Olson (right, front row)

In April 2003, SI Kalispell submitted a request to NorthWestern Region Headquarters for approval to begin the process of sponsoring the chartering of SI Bigfork. Approval was granted, a committee formed with Jayne Tienken as chair. Posters and flyers were printed and an informational meeting “Champagne, Chocolates & You”, was held May 29, at a local elite restaurant. A very diverse group of 31 attended (some from SI Kalispell), and by the end of the evening 18 prospects had signed up.

By the second meeting, June 19, an additional 6 signed, making a total of 24. They elected officers, approved by-laws and paid their dues. All necessary documentation was sent to headquarters by June 26. Much help was received from Nancy Nardone – Thank You Nancy! A date for the chartering banquet was set for August 9th, and Montana Senator Bob Keenan was a keynote speaker. Northwestern Region Governor DeDe Olson and other Region and District dignitaries assisted with the chartering formalities.

SI Bigfork has already made their presence known in the community with several projects and fundraisers and has already begun donating to the areas of need they chose as project. Look for SI Bigfork at future district meetings and conferences, they’ll be the fireballs!

For more information about Soroptimist in the Northwestern Region, click here.