SIBoise April 2026 Newsletter
SIBoise April 2026 Newsletter
SIBoise April 2026 Newsletter — Highlights, Plans, and Community Impact
Overview: Leadership, Community Impact, and Future Growth
Rita Fleck, president of Soroptimist International of Boise, reflects on the organization’s longstanding collaboration with the Women’s and Children’s Alliance and recalls the fulfillment members experience when recognizing women through Live Your Dream and Dream Big awards. She expresses pride in the club’s service to the community during the year and notes that a new slate of club officers and board members will soon assume responsibilities for the 2026-27 year. Her gratitude extends to all volunteers, especially those in leadership roles, whose dedication shapes the club’s character and momentum. She also shares a personal springtime mood, looking forward to gardening and trying new vegetable varieties, drawing a parallel to the club’s need for fresh ideas and inviting new members to help it thrive. (Page 2)
Governance, Leadership Transitions, and Community Spirit
The president highlights that by next month, the club will elect and begin installing its next cycle of officers and board members for 2026-27, underscoring the importance of smooth leadership transitions for sustaining momentum and mission. She also credits the current officers and board for their ongoing efforts, acknowledging that their work is foundational to the club’s continued impact in the Boise community. (Page 2)
April Activities, Meetings, and Culture of Learning
The April calendar features a change in venue for the Board/Business Meeting scheduled for April 16, with the gathering moving to the public library. Members are asked to adjust their plans accordingly and to note the new location: Hillcrest area, 5246 W Overland Rd, Boise, ID 83705. (Page 3)
The club also references the SIA’s 5th Annual Tea Party and a parallel event organized by CSW NGO, noting a recorded video from the March Tea Party for those who missed it and inviting members to view it. (Page 3)
A Stage Coach Theatre outing, previously summarized as a recap event, provided a lively afternoon experience with a production described as irreverent, energetic, and humorous. The event included raffles for gift baskets, contributing to club fundraising. (Page 3-4)
Looking ahead, the group’s April meeting is planned for April 21 at 5:30 p.m. at Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill, located at 2288 N Garden St, Boise. Attendees will read and discuss two novels, selected to provoke thoughtful discussions about contemporary life and women’s aspirations. (Page 3-4)
Book Selections for the April Meeting: In Five Years and Troublesome Women
The first choice, In Five Years by Rebecca Serle, follows a Type-A Manhattan lawyer who experiences a sudden, unexplained shift five years into the future and must reconcile that vision with her current life and relationships, challenging the certainty of carefully laid plans. The premise sets the stage for a reflection on fate, love, and the paths not taken. (Page 4)
The second pick, The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick, welcomes readers into a mid-20th-century Southern neighborhood where four women form a book club, navigate social expectations, and discover that pursuing a fuller, more authentic life can be a shared journey. The narrative invites discussion about female friendship, independence, and redefining success. (Page 4)
Community Social Events and Local Engagements
SI Caldwell is hosting a wine-tasting event on April 25, offering sessions at multiple wineries, with a Mimosa Starter, lunch, and dessert included. Interested members can contact Heather Yee for tickets at the provided number. (Page 4-5)
Financial Planning, Budgetary Process, and Dues
Fannie Louie explains that all club members participate in shaping the operating budget for the 2026-27 year. A draft budget will be presented at the April 16th Business Meeting, and members will have opportunities to provide input in person or via Zoom. The final budget will be put to a vote at the May 15th Board/Business Meeting. (Page 4-5)
The proposed 2026-27 officers and board slate has been circulated to members, and nominations from the floor will be welcomed. The slate currently lists Rita Fleck as President, Lena Rupp as President-elect, Michelle Moore-Dewez as Treasurer, a vacant Secretary position, Christine Warner as Director, with the roles of Delegate and Parliamentarian to be appointed by the President. The slate will be voted on at the April 16th Board/Business Meeting. (Page 5)
Additional administrative updates note that dues for the 2026-27 year will reflect modest increases: SIA dues up by one dollar, SI dues up by 25 cents, and Founders Pennies up by six cents. There is also potential for a rise in liability insurance costs as the organization transitions to a new insurer, with details to be shared in April. A webinar is scheduled for May 13 to introduce the new Member and Leader Code of Conduct and signing process. (Page 5)
Members are reminded that the 2026-27 club roster changes should be submitted by July 15, 2026, with updates to photos and email addresses as needed. The latest roster was distributed February 18, and roster insert updates will be prepared for the new year. For roster enhancements, including preferred communication methods and roles held at various levels, members should email the designated contact. The full roster is available on the club website and will be updated as changes occur. (Page 5-6)
Roster Updates, Convention Call, and International Networking
In addition to roster changes, members are encouraged to review the Call to Convention sent on April 7. In-person registration is officially closed, but virtual delegates can still register until June 5, 11:59 p.m. (KST). Delegates will consider three proposed bylaws amendments, and the convention website hosts schedules, presenter bios, and workshop descriptions. A roster copy is also posted on the SI Boise site for ongoing updates. (Page 6)
The Soroptimist International of the Americas will host its 49th Biennial Convention in Incheon, South Korea, from July 22–25, 2026. This event will bring together members from across the federation to engage in governance discussions, networking, and strategic planning for the organization’s future. (Page 7)
Regional and Global Gathering: A Focus on Growth and Collaboration
The April issue emphasizes participation in both local initiatives and wider Soroptimist opportunities, including the upcoming spring conference, regional activities, and the global biennial gathering. The content underscores the club’s commitment to empowering women and girls, expanding membership, and promoting leadership development across chapters and regions. (Page 7)
Closing Thoughts: A Year of Service, Learning, and Community Building
Overall, the April 2026 newsletter highlights a season of service, learning, and forward-looking governance. It invites members to engage in planning for the 2026-27 year, participate in book clubs and cultural events, attend social fundraisers, and contribute to the club’s sustained impact in Boise and beyond. The message also invites new members to join and contribute fresh ideas to the organization’s mission. (Page 7)
