Members of Susanville’s chapter of Soroptimist International held their annual awards ceremony at Lassen Community College May 16th, to honor and celebrate the individuals that make our community shine. The big Soroptimist soiree highlighted the organization’s scholarship, Students of Achievement, Community Star award, Live Your Dream and Ruby Award recipients.
The Live Your Dream Award, presented by Ashley Parker, was established in 1972 to assist women with primary financial responsibility for their families. The $1,000 award is given in order for the recipient to further their education or obtain skills necessary to improve their employment status and standard of living for themselves and their families.
This year’s Live Your Dream recipient, Kailie Shoemaker said, “As a single mother, I’ve faced challenges that have given me firsthand insight into how crucial resources and support are for families. There have been times in my life when I had to rely on the kindness and assistance of others, whether through financial support, community programs, or simply having someone to talk to.”
“Those experiences have shaped my understanding of how important it is for families, especially those in difficult situations, to have access to the help they need.”
Shoemaker says that because she knows what it feels like to be helped, she is passionate about becoming a licensed social worker, so she can provide that same level of care and support to others.
“My associate’s degrees in social work, psychology, and sociology have given me the foundational knowledge to understand the dynamics of trauma, poverty, and mental health. I’ve learned how families can be strengthened by access to resources, and my goal is to work in environments where I can be a guide and a helper for those who need it most.”
Terra Avilla was the recipient of the Ruby Award which honors women who, through their professional or personal efforts, are making extraordinary differences in the lives of women and girls. Their work has had a significant impact and also inspires and encourages other women.
“Terra’s impact on the lives of women and girls is undeniable. She inspires those around her through her unwavering commitment to service, education, and empowerment. Her dedication to helping others and her tireless work to improve the lives of women and girls make her an ideal candidate for the Soroptimist Ruby Award,” said Ariana Parker, who nominated Avilla for the award.
“Terra embodies the spirit of this prestigious honor and serves as a role model to many, encouraging others to explore ways to assist women in their own communities.
“Winning the Ruby Award means so much to me because I’m all about women supporting women,” says Avilla. “There’s real power when we show up for each other, and I’m proud to be part of a community that celebrates that – and honored to be recognized by a group of women that I so look up to!”
This year, the theme of the Community Star awards was women in education – especially those who go above and beyond to support women and children.
Event organizer Theresa Phillips said that this year’s Community Stars exemplify what it means to give with a giving heart – they put other’s needs before their own and serve as shining example for other women.
Community Star Award recipient Shelley Bennett said, “I was very honored and humbled to be chosen for one of the Community Star awards. I enjoy contributing to my community and am rewarded daily with the friendships and connections I’ve made along the way.”
Community Star Awards were presented to Nicolette Dilts, Jennifer Averalo, Carol Forbes, Shelley Bennett and Antonia Marro.
The Soroptimists’ Students of Achievement award recipients are nominated by their teachers – they are students who show outstanding character, are kind, and go above and beyond in their everyday lives. They seek out opportunities to show kindness to their fellow students and stand as an example to others.
This year’s Dee Beall Students of Achievement are Christian Mendoza, Eli Wheat, Evangeline Pulver, Isabelle Sierra, Jarrett Gatewood, Kristabell Clauson, Kylee Baumiller, Madoline Lambert, Matua Potts, Miah Tristan, Miranda Rivera-Rubio, Morgan Johnson, Raymond Goetchius and Sophia Gallegos.
The Soroptimist College Scholarship went to Joseph Richard, the Darlene Lundberg Scholarship was awarded to Angelica Shriver, the Tillie Brodie Scholarship went to Erielle Paddock and the Robin Stampfli Scholarship was awarded to Christian Mendoza.
