Quincy Soroptimists seek applicants for program honoring young women volunteers
Soroptimist International of Quincy, an international volunteer organization for women, is seeking applicants for its recognition program targeted to young women who make the community and world a better place. The Violet Richardson Service Award honors high school women, grades 9-12, for volunteer action such as fighting drugs crime and violence, cleaning up the environment, changing attitudes such as bullying, working to end discrimination and poverty. This $250 award is open to any young woman in grades grades 9-12 who attends high school in Quincy or Portola.
“As a volunteer service organization for women, Soroptimist believes that by acknowledging young women’s volunteer involvement now, they will grow up to be vital, active members of the community,” said Billie Bequette, past president of the Quincy club.
Applications for the award program are available at Quincy or Portola highschools or by contacting Billie Bequette at 530 258-9617. [email protected]. or Sue Gutierrez, 530 249-0162, [email protected] . Applications must be received by Soroptimist International of Quincy by Friday, May 6.
The service award is named after Violet Richardson, the founder and president of the first Soroptimist Club in 1921. Richardson believed in personal responsibility and the motto: “It’s what you do that counts.” She lived her life accordingly, as an active member in her community who was committed to creating opportunities for girls and young women. Soroptimist established this award to honor the memory of this unique woman and her dedication to volunteer action.
Founded in 1942, Soroptimist International of Quincy is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pa., Soroptimist improves the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. Soroptimist International of Quincy also provides scholarships for both boys and girls. One of its major programs, the Live Your Dream Award provides cash grants for women seeking to improve their lives with the help of additional education and training. Since 1972, the award-winning program has disbursed more than $25 million to tens of thousands of women, helping them achieve their educational goals. Soroptimist, a 501(c)(3) organization, relies on charitable donations to support its programs.
