June 5, 2019 – Soroptimist International of Grass Valley held its annual Celebration of Service, presenting over $13,500 in gifts to local scholarship winners and charities assisting Nevada County women and children. Soroptimists honored those who help fulfill the mission and purpose of the organization which is to empower women and children in ways that change their lives and those of others.
Since 1972 the local club has been partnering with local causes and agencies in Nevada County either through sponsorship of the KARE Crisis Nursery or programs and projects with outright funding including scholarships for women returning to college or special training venues. The funds were obtained by SIGV presenting A Day for Women Conference in conjunction with Sierra College and through the selling of healthy rice bowls at the annual Nevada County Fair.
Project HEART (Holding Excellence Above Relapse Team) received a grant to support their efforts to help men and women recovering from life damaging issues such as addiction and criminal justice system involvement.
InterFaith Food Ministry received a grant to support their efforts to feed the hungry in our community to sustain health and human dignity.
A new agency, Butterflies and Roses Cancer Support, received funds to help them provide women receiving cancer treatment with their transitional beauty and personal needs during recovery.
The Hangout at Grace Lutheran Church, located right next to Nevada Union High School, received a grant to help them continue to provide after-school refuge, healthy snacks and needed services.
The Cinderella Project received a grant to help provide prom tickets and other supportive services to assure students have a prom experience during high school.
A donation was presented to the KARE Crisis Nursery, a signature project of the club that started in 1999.
Three vocational scholarships were presented for young women graduating from high school and pursuing education to become productive citizens.
The winners of the signature Live Your Dream Education and Training Awards were acknowledged for their hard work, Brittany Perez and Brianna Blaney.