Soroptimist helps 3 women “Live Your Dream” with $4,000 in cash awards
Members of Soroptimist International of Kawartha Lakes celebrated International Women’s Day on March 2nd by presenting cash awards to three women to invest in their education and help create a better life for themselves and their families.
First-place recipient of the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Education and Training Awards Carrie B* of Lindsay said the $2,000 award “will pay for most of my tuition next semester as I’ve been struggling even with groceries”. A mother of two, Carrie is working on her Bachelor’s degree in Women’s/Gender Studies at Trent University.
Amanda Devine of Hampton received the second-place award of $1,250. The mother of four is working on her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at Trent University. “I’m in my 3rd year of Nursing,” said Amanda, “and having to travel to Toronto hospitals for my placements so this award will help with my gas expenses.”
The third-place award of $750 was given to Jillian Beek of Oshawa, who is taking courses at Durham College to work in medical/office administration. Jill said “This award is a tremendous help for me. One day I’m going join Soroptimist and give back to the community.”
In addition to providing the primary financial support for their families, eligible applicants must be enrolled in, or have been accepted to, a vocational/skills training program or an undergraduate degree program and must demonstrate financial need. Live Your Dream Award recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education or enhance their skills, such as books, child or dependent care, tuition and transportation. Decisions on who will receive the awards are made by a panel of local professional women (non-Soroptimists).
Since 1972 Soroptimist clubs around the world have awarded approximately $41 million to more than 41,000 women, many of whom have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, domestic violence, sexual assault, and addiction. Since 2012, the Kawartha Lakes club has invested $29,500 in the dreams of 26 women through the program.
A registered charity, the club raises funds through different fundraising activities throughout the year. New members are always welcomed. For more information about Soroptimist and their support for women and girls, check out their website at: www.sikawarthalakes.org, or send an email to: info@sikawarthalakes.org.
