Applicants needed for Soroptimist women's awards

Staff Reports

Soroptimist International of Carson Valley, an international volunteer organization for business and professional women, seeks applicants for three of its women's award programs.

n The Violet Richardson Award targets women, ages 14-17, who make the community and world a better place through volunteer action such as fighting drugs, crime and violence, cleaning up the environment and working to end discrimination and poverty.

The winner of the Violet Richardson scholarship, named for the president of the first Soroptimist Club, receives $500 and becomes eligible for one of 28 $1,000 awards. An additional $1,000 will be contributed to the winners' volunteer organizations. One of the 28 winners receives $2,500 for their volunteer organization.

Applications available at Douglas, Sierra Crest and Sierra Lutheran high schools, Sheriff's Explorer Program, at the Douglas County Public Library or from Rosann Turigliatto, 265-5487.

n Since 1972, the Soroptimist Women's Opportunity Awards program has provided women who serve as the primary wage earners for their families with the financial resources to offset costs associated with attaining higher education or additional skills and training.

The winner of the Women's Opportunity Award receives a $1,000 cash grant and will advance to the region level and be eligible for more scholarships.

n The winner of the Landis Award, named in honor of lifetime Soroptimist member Sally Landis of Carson City, will be granted up to $5,000. Landis requested that the club provide scholarship assistance to mothers returning to school or college to better themselves and improve their personal circumstance through education.

Landis Award recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with higher education, including books, childcare and transportation.

Women who serve as the primary wage earners for their families and need financial assistance to go back to school may apply for both awards by contacting Rosann Turigliatto, 265-5487, or the Family Support Council, 782-8692.