Soroptimist Awards & Programs
Women's Opportunity Awards
The Women’s Opportunity Awards (WOA) program is the signature program of Soroptimist International of the Americas. It was created in 1972 by popular vote of the membership. Because of their interest in “upward mobility for women,” members voted overwhelmingly for the creation of an award for training or retraining that would enable women heads of household to obtain higher level jobs.
This program aids women seeking to improve their economic status by gaining additional skills, training and education. These women are the primary wage earners for their families, and must be accepted into or enrolled in a program of study.
Many WOA applicants have faced severe hardships that have prevented them from pursuing and achieving their education and professional goals. Many are single mothers and/or reliant on public assistance as their source of income. Many are domestic abuse survivors.
Recipients of the WOA may use the cash awards to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, including tuition, books, supplies, childcare and care car.
Club-level recipients become eligible for additional awards at other levels or the organization. In addition, Soroptimist International of the Americas grants three $10,000 finalist awards each year. Since its inception, SIA has funded almost $5.5 million in Women’s opportunity awards and assisted about 1640 women. In total (including the local club activity) approximately $15 milion in WOA has been disbursed to about 22,500 women since the program begin in 1972.
Violet Richardson Award
In 2000 SI of the Americas launched the Violet Richardson Award as a way to recognize girls for their volunteer service to their communities.
The program focuses on young women ages 14-17 engaged in volunteer activities within their community or school. Volunteer programs can include, but are not limited to, projects that address social problems such as drug use, homelessness, violence, discrimination, illiteracy, etc. Projects may assist any group including the elderly, disabled, mentally or emotionally challenged person. Projects that benefit women or girls are especially valued.
Club level recipients become eligible for $500 cash award, with a matching $500 cash award for the charitable organization of their choice.
Making a Difference for Women Award
The Soroptimist Making a Difference for Women Award acknowledges women who are working to improve the lives of women and girls through their personal or professional activities.READ MORE»
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Soroptimist Live Your Dream Campaign
Through its website, Live Your Dream inspires women and girls to live their dreams and encourages them to pass on their good fortune to others. The campaign celebrates the unique power and accomplishments of women and girls just like you. When women help themselves and one another, amazing things can happen.
1st Annual SIHV Awards Banquet SIHV Awards Banquet at Arrowhead Country Club was very successful. With over 40 attendees, we recognized Stephanie McDonald as our Women's Opportunity Award (WOA) winner with $750 . Ashley Johnson was recognized as our Violet Richardson Award (VRA) winner with $250 and matching funds to her charity of choice.