Soroptimists present scholarships, awards

Soroptimist International of Carson Valley recently honored several Carson Valley Head of Household women, enabling them to attend college, and improve their employment status and financial status, while raising children in a single-parent home. The luncheon meeting recognized and presented awards and scholarships to what they considered as three deserving women.

The Soroptimist Club announced the women's opportunity award 2006 winner, Mary Boss, who earned a $1,500 scholarship, a plaque and certificate.

"Many women's opportunity award recipients have overcome enormous obstacles in their quest for a better life, including divorce, domestic violence, and drug and alcohol abuse," said Soroptimist officials. "Each year, more than $800,000 is disbursed through awards at various levels of the organization to help women achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families."

Since the women's opportunity awards program began in 1972, it is estimated that $15 million dollars has been disbursed and more than 20,000 women have been assisted.

The club announced two Sally Landis Foundation winners. Prior to her death, Landis, a lifetime member of Soroptimist of Carson City, requested that the club assist where needed in providing scholarship assistance to mothers returning to school or college to better themselves and improve their personal circumstance through education. Landis funded the scholarships for future generations of successful women in the Valley.

Anne Arneson-Lambino and Bridgett Deboer were awarded $5,000 each from the Landis Foundation, to attend college along with a plaque and certificate. These women are the foundation of their family and may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, including books, childcare and transportation.

The women brought family members to the luncheon to share in the presentation and celebration.

The Soroptimist International of Carson Valley is comprised of businesswomen professionals in management and leadership roles in this community. The club has worked in this community furthering the growth, development and success of women and children for the past 27 years. The club produces annual fundraisers such as the Savor the Flavor wine tasting and the popular Carson Valley Days buttons to raise funds to grant scholarships. For information on membership or any other questions, call club president Janet Andraski at 783-6347.