Soroptimist International of Saddleback Valley held their awards celebration dinner last week, and scholarships were given to 3 head-of-household women to further their education and to one teenager for her volunteer efforts in the community.
The Live Your Dream Award honors women who are reclaiming their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families, often while overcoming enormous obstacles. Three women were honored -
- Dawn Murphy is a four-time convicted felon and has been clean and sober for 5 years. She is presently studying at Irvine Valley College with a goal of receiving a Master's Degree in Social Work.
- Janna To has left a volatile relationship to pursue her dream career in Social Work. She is presently studying at Cal State Fullerton.
- Tara Shaghayegh moved to the United States from Iran and after unsuccessful years in our educational system dropped out of school and soon became pregnant. Once her son was born, she realized she needed to change her life. She is now studying at Irvine Valley College, pursuing her goal to become a dental hygienist.
The Violet Richardson Award honors girls who volunteer their time and energy to causes that make their local communities and the world a better place.
- Victoria Slaybaugh has touched the lives of many through her diverse volunteering efforts. Victoria has volunteered at the Serrano Animal and Bird Hospital, the Red Cross, Motel Kids, South County Outreach in their food pantry and taught horse back riding with her favorite charity the Lake Forest Super Stars 4H Club.
