If you are a Soroptimist International member, you can help spread the word about Project Independence by becoming a Project Independence Ambassador. As an Ambassador, you will help by raising awareness about the project among other Soroptimist clubs and outside groups.

To help you as an Ambassador, Project Independence has made the following guidelines and resources available:

Sign Up. If you are a Soroptimist and you are interested in being an ambassador, contact Soroptimist International Quadrennial Project Liaison Dawn Marie Lemonds at dawnmarie.lemonds@gmail.com or at projectindependence@womenforwomen.org

Be Knowledgeable. Read and review all of the available materials on a regular basis. You can check the Project Independence website for updates and progress reports at www.womenforwomen.org/projectindependence. The website also has the club protocol which offers information about women in post-war countries; ideas for fundraising and outreach; and general information about the project. In addition, you can contact your Federation to get the Project Independence brochure and a copy of the Women for Women International video.

Identify Yourself as an Ambassador. After you have reviewed and studied the materials and feel ready to speak on behalf of the project, let people know.

• Contact your Federation’s Project Liaison and let them know you are available to make presentations.
• Present a program to a “test” audience and get feedback from other Soroptimists or friends.
• Promote your availability to present the program to both Soroptimists and non-Soroptimists.
• Try some of the fundraising ideas presented on the website and in the protocol.

Report Successes and Needs. Share your successes and needs with your Federation Liaison and with Dawn Marie Lemonds, Soroptimist International Quadrennial Project Liaison. Your successes will be shared on the Project Independence website as you share them. You can contact Project Independence at dawnmarie.lemonds@gmail.com or at projectindependence@womenforwomen.org.

Helpful Tips. Below are some helpful tips to be a successful Ambassador.

• Always identify the project by its full name -- Project Independence: Women Survivors of War. This will help keep it unique from other “Project Independence” projects.
• Develop your presentation based on your audience – your presentation may be different when shared with non-Soroptimist members.
• Check the website often for project updates and new ideas.
• Make sure you are able to fund your travel and expenses when giving presentations. Unfortunately, Project Independence is not able to provide funding.