Soroptimists honor women in the South Lake Tahoe community

In a joint celebration, the two South Lake Tahoe area Soroptimist clubs honored students and women from the South Shore for their contributions to the community.

On Thursday night, members from the Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra and Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe clubs presented their annual Violet Richardson, Live your Dream, and Ruby awards at Harrah's Tahoe.

"Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm," SITS President Lydia Rogers quoted Audrey Hepburn to start off the celebration. "As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands: one for helping yourself, the other for helping others."

Rogers and SISLT President Brenda Know emceed the evening's activities which were honoring women who are the "the changemakers."

The Violet Richardson Award recognizes girls, ages 14-17, for their volunteer service to their communities. It is named after Violet Richardson Ward, the first president of the first Soroptimist club who was committed to creating opportunities for girls and young women.

The SISLT award recipients of the Violet Richardson Award were Abby Abel, Allyson Swain, Hunter Turney, all seniors at South Tahoe High School.

The SITS award recipients of the Violet Richardson Award were Annie Buchser, Sabrina Green, and Tatum Whatford. These girls are also all seniors at South Tahoe High School.

The Live Your Dream Award helps women achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families. Each year many of these winners have overcome enormous obstacles. Eligible applicants must be women who provide the primary financial support for their families, and who are enrolled in or have been accepted in a vocational/skills training program or undergraduate degree program.

The award recipients of the Live Your Dream Award were Jordawn Amthauer and Tatiana Esposito.

The Ruby Award recognizes and honors the first federation president, Ruby Lee Minar. It honors women who have worked to improve the lives of women and girls through their professional and/or volunteer work.

This year’s recipients were Dr. Mireya Ortega and Bonnie Driscoll.

"We are so proud of these women and the difference they are making in our community and the world," said Karen House of SITS.