IT MAY be a bit of a juggling act for local residents Tanya Reddie and Nicola as they manage work and family commitments, but taking time to help others less fortunate than themselves is always near the top of their priority list.
Among the newest and youngest members of Soroptimist International Mount Gambier, the two have made their mark on the organisation and community, already taking up positions as secretary and treasurer.
“It was the way I was brought up I think that inspired me to become a Soroptimist – my parents have been involved with service clubs for many years and we were always taught to give back to our community,” Ms Reddie said.
From selling pies and pasties at the Generations in Jazz festival to helping to teach Girl Guides essential skills and meeting inspirational women of all backgrounds, cultures and ages, Ms Reddie said it had been an exciting and inspiring experience so far.
“I have never been a secretary, never taken minutes or done an agenda, but that is why I chose to do it – it is another skill set I can add that I would not gain in my line of work,” she said.
Over the past couple of years the female-driven group has helped women and girls in the local community, interstate and overseas through providing mentoring support for other organisations, the Mim Ingham Education Grant and with catering at the Icehouse for a large mental health event.
The group also continues to lobby on domestic violence matters, highlighting a problem sadly appearing increasingly evident in the Limestone Coast.
Celebrating the local organisation’s 40th anniversary later this month, the two hope to encourage more younger women to become involved with the group.
“I joined because I wanted to do something for the community with people I could associate with and for an organisation I believed in,” Nicola said.
“But since joining I have also been contributing to myself, I have gone outside my comfort zone and done things I never thought I would do.
“It is not a scary environment to do it in, you can grow in your own way.”
Understanding that many have busy lives, Nicola said whatever time they can give is accepted.
“I would encourage people to join so they can support our community,” she said.
“Often new members bring in fresh ideas which fit with our guidelines in supporting women and girls.
“It is fun, you get to mix with people of all ages and you learn a lot from everyone – each person has different experience to bring to the table.
“People all contribute in their own ways and different levels and because it is a group of women, we all understand that.”
Soroptomist International Mount Gambier will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a luncheon on November 25 at Mount Gambier City Hall at 12.30pm.
Contact Tanya Reddie on 0439 082 884 for more information on joining the group.
