The North San Diego and Poway Soroptimists were joined by hundreds of supporters on Sunday to support the social and educational empowerment of women and girls.

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Their annual Hats & Heels fundraiser, held at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Golf Club in Carlsbad, drew nearly 300 attendees.

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The chapters’ presidents — Shelley Dugan of North San Diego and Jan Kane of Poway — told those present that by buying tickets, bidding in the silent and live auctions, and making donations they are helping to break the cycle of violence and promote educational opportunities.

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Since the program’s founding in 1997, Soroptimists have helped 84 women and 201 children. They now fund six apartments in the program that helps for 12-18 months, enough time for women to become capable of financially supporting their families. The Soroptimists also support efforts to assist those escaping human trafficking, are mentors to girls at local schools, and give scholarships to women who are their family’s head of household or have difficulties paying for college or career training.

 

District Attorney Summer Stephan praised the group for its efforts, and spoke of progress made in combating domestic violence and human trafficking.“Your mission and the way you go about it is so aligned with our mission at the District Attorney’s Office. It is the hope for justice ... and we are focused on not just words because honestly, people are tired of words and broken promises,” said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, the keynote speaker.

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“What people want is action, true action that gives dignity to humanity and this is what Soroptimists do year after year,” Stephan said. “You focus on actually having a plan that works to directly improve the lives of the people, women, and girls and it makes an amazing difference.”

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The Soroptimists also support efforts to assist those escaping human trafficking, are mentors to girls at local schools, and provide scholarships to women who are their family's head of household or have difficulties paying for college or career training.

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