Soroptimists seek nominations for women's awards

Soroptimist International Valley of the Sun is accepting applications from women living in the West Valley for two award programs: the Women’s Opportunity Award geared to students who are heads of their household; and the Ruby Award for Women Helping Women, which honors outstanding achievements in improving the lives of women and girls. 

The Women’s Opportunity Award provides cash grants to offset costs associated with attaining higher education and additional skills training. The goal of the program is to help women improve their economic status by preparing them to enter or re-enter the workforce. Applications are due Dec. 15, and the selection process will identify a first place award winner to receive $3,000 and a second place award of $1,000.

The Soroptimist Ruby Award honors women who are making extraordinary differences in the lives of other women and girls. SIVOS seeks nominees who through their careers or voluntary endeavors in the West Valley have made a significant impact and inspire and encourage other women to get involved. Nominations for this award must be submitted by Dec. 1. The SIVOS Ruby Award winner will then be eligible to compete for Soroptimist regional and federation-wide awards.

The Women’s Opportunity Award application and Ruby Award nomination form may be found on the club’s Web site: www.sivalleyofthesun.org (click on “Soroptimist Programs” link) or at the Soroptimist Thrift Shop at 10705 W. Peoria Ave., Sun City. For information or if you would like an application mailed to you, call Janelle Shiner at 623-734-7589 or e-mail SIValleyoftheSun@gmail.com.

SIVOS meets weekly on Wednesday mornings at 7:30-8:30 a.m. at Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise (on the Interfaith Community Care Campus). SIVOS welcomes guests and is seeking women who wish to join them in the mission of “improving the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.”

The club raises money to support their award programs through the Soroptimist Thrift Shop. Tax-deductible donations are accepted for sale by the store Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, call 623-972-8008.