07/07/2026
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“Founders Pennies” are a long-running Soroptimist tradition tied to Founders Day — October 3, the anniversary of the first Soroptimist club's founding meeting in Alameda County, California, in 1921.
How It Works
● Founders Pennies are set at $0.06 per member × the number of years SIA has existed. For the 2026–2027 club year: $0.06 × 106 years = $6.36 per member. There is a place on the SIA financial form to pay the pennies.
● It is a voluntary fee- but as proud members of Founder Region, we strongly request your participation.
Origin Story
The tradition of giving pennies began in 1943. Clubs collected one penny for each year of Soroptimist's existence and used the money to help re-establish clubs in Europe that had disbanded as a result of pre-World War II political conditions and the war itself. It was originally called the Madame Noel Fund.
In 1946, the fund was renamed the Founders Fund, providing international fellowships, scholarships, and other awards to improve the status of women.
What It Funds Today
Founders Pennies are used to fund the Live Your Dream Awards, Dream It, Be It, and other SIA programs that improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world.
