Bend Soroptimists offer educational awards

Back to school begins with an application to one of the two Soroptimist International of Bend (SI Bend) educational awards — “Live Your Dream” an award for $1,500 and the community service and volunteerism “Violet Richardson” award of $500.

For adult women, SI Bend annually awards financial assistance, not a scholarship, to be used for any educational expense including tuition, childcare, and/or transportation. “Live Your Dream” applicants must be entering into or enrolled in a college certificate/degree program, are head of a household and in need of financial help. The recipients of the “Live Your Dream” awardreceive $1,500 toward reaching their goals.

Violet Richard applicants must be between the ages of 14-17. The winners are chosen on the basis of community involvement not on academics alone. This award is designed to recognize young women who are involved in activities that make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts. Funds can be used for any educational expense.

Over 30 years, SI Bend has awarded more than $55,000 to local women. The annual SI Bend Holiday Wreath & Evergreen Sale (starting October 1), supports these awards. Other SI Bend events contribute additional monies.

The submission deadline for “Live Your Dream” applications is Nov. 15 and for “Violet Richardson” is Dec. 1.

Visit www.sibend.org to view and download applications, or call Soroptimist member Jan Swander at 541-389-8940 for more information.