In the heart of Pahrump, a dedicated group of women is working tirelessly to make a difference in their community. Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley, part of a global network that began in 1921, is steadfast in its mission to empower women and girls through education and training. The local club, in its 19th year is thriving, with 52 members who bring a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives.
“Our mission is to provide training and education for girls and women to empower them over their own lives,” explained club president Nancy Davis. “We believe education is the key to success, whether that’s training to be a mechanic, a professor, or a doctor.”
Nancy’s connection to Soroptimist is deeply personal. Growing up in Henderson, Nevada, she was unexpectedly awarded a scholarship to UNLV through the organization. “It came out of the blue,” she recalled. “It’s always held a special place in my heart.” Years later, her passion for Soroptimist’s goals brought her to the Pahrump club, where she has found camaraderie and purpose.
The club operates a variety of impactful programs that benefit both the local community and women around the globe. The Live Your Dream program is a cornerstone initiative, providing financial assistance to women pursuing further education. Whether recipients need help paying for childcare, repairing a car, or buying books for school, the program is there to assist. Nearly $10,000 has been distributed, a testament to the club’s fundraising efforts. With the club being the grateful recipient of trust funds from the late Margaret Ibbotson, they will be able to exceed that $10,000 mark this year; providing more support for their mission, and improving their programs.
Another significant initiative is the Dream It, Be It program, which focuses on high school girls. This program includes workshops on career planning, resume writing, and professional development. To enhance the experience, the club brings in guest speakers—successful women in various fields—who share their journeys and inspire participants. The program culminates in a field trip where the girls visit local businesses such as Valley Electric and Spring Mountain Motorsports to learn about career opportunities available in the area. According to immediate past president Linda Fitzgibbons, the program aims to “empower girls to see what options they have and understand that they don’t always need to leave the area or go to college to find success.”
Locally, the club also operates the Moving Forward Grant, which addresses immediate financial needs for women in education or training programs. Nancy shared a story of a young woman aspiring to become a radiologist who faced financial obstacles just days before her program began. With Soroptimist’s help, the woman received the $1,500 she needed to purchase books and was able to begin her program without delay. “It’s stories like this that show the real impact of what we do,” Nancy said. “We can step in quickly and make a difference.”
The local club has developed a variety of dynamic fundraising programs to support its impactful initiatives, ensuring the club can provide financial aid and educational opportunities to women and girls in the local community. These events not only raise vital funds but also foster a sense of community and engagement among attendees.
The Mardi Gras Gala stands out as the club’s signature fundraising event and has been a cornerstone of their efforts for nearly a decade. The gala features a lively atmosphere with a mix of fine dining, entertainment, and both silent and live auctions. Attendees are treated to an elegant evening of fun while contributing to the club’s mission. “Last year, it sold out in advance, and we’re hoping for another sold-out event this year,” Nancy Davis, the club president, noted. The Mardi Gras Gala is more than just a fundraiser; it also serves as a platform to recognize recipients of the Live Your Dream awards. The awardees are invited to the gala, where they are honored in front of the community, receive their certificates and checks, and share their inspiring stories. This recognition reinforces the direct impact of the funds raised and adds a deeply personal touch to the event.
To keep their lineup of events fresh and engaging, the club has explored new ideas and introduced additional fundraisers. One of their recent concepts is a side-by-side poker run, set to debut in the fall. This event will cater to Pahrump’s outdoor enthusiasts, combining adventure and philanthropy. “We’re really excited about this new fundraiser,” Linda said. “It’s something fresh and different for the community, and we think it will bring in a whole new group of supporters.”
The club also hosts smaller but equally enjoyable events, such as bunco fundraisers. These themed events, like a recent Halloween bunco night, offer a more casual and intimate way to bring the community together while raising money for their programs. While they may not raise as much as the Mardi Gras Gala, these events require less planning and effort, making them a valuable part of the club’s fundraising strategy.
In the past, the club has experimented with other fundraisers, including a fashion show, but they’ve since shifted their focus to events with broader appeal and less competition. This adaptability demonstrates the club’s commitment to keeping their fundraisers relevant and effective.
Another hallmark of Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley is their ability to involve the broader community in their efforts. Businesses and individuals alike are encouraged to contribute, whether through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer efforts. For instance, their Christmas for Seniors program has seen overwhelming support from local businesses, which donate items ranging from lap blankets to toiletries. The program has grown exponentially, with the community rallying to ensure seniors who are alone during the holidays feel remembered and valued.
The club’s strategic approach to fundraising is underpinned by strong organizational practices. Each event is meticulously planned and aligns with their overarching goals. Members actively contribute to budgeting, planning, and executing these events, ensuring they remain both impactful and sustainable. “Our club operates like a well-run business,” Nancy said. “We have an annual budget, an operating plan, and a clear vision for each fundraiser.”
While the club focuses on Pahrump, its influence reaches far beyond the local community. Soroptimist International, which celebrated its centennial in 2021, has representation at the United Nations, advocating for women’s rights and economic development globally. The organization has tackled issues such as female genital mutilation in Africa and education inequality in Turkey and China. Linda, who attended the Soroptimist International convention in Ireland, described it as life-changing. “Seeing women from all over the world coming together for a shared mission was incredible. It reminded me of the global reach of our work.”
Despite its growth into one of the largest clubs in Nevada, Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley maintains a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere. Members range from retirees to young professionals, each contributing unique insights and perspectives. “Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths,” Linda said. “We leave politics and religion at the door and focus on our shared goal of empowering women.”
The club’s collaborative approach extends to partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Recently, Great Basin College reached out to partner with the club on its Christmas for Seniors initiative, which provides gifts to elderly residents spending the holidays alone. This is just one example of how the club’s network and community ties amplify its efforts.
As Nancy leads the club through her two-year term, her goals are clear: maintain momentum, grow the club, and expand its programs. “We’ve got an incredible group of women and a strong foundation,” she said. “I just want to keep us moving forward.” For Nancy, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing the success of their programs and knowing they’ve made a positive impact. “Seeing young girls overcome challenges and achieve their goals is inspiring. It reminds us why we do what we do.”
For those interested in joining, Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley welcomes new members to attend their meetings, held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at NyE Communities Coalition. Applications are available online, and dues can be submitted upon attendance.
Through their dedication and hard work, Soroptimist International Pahrump Valley continues to empower women, enrich their community, and create opportunities for a better future. For more information, visit https://www.soroptimistpv.com/.
