Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.
Live Your Dream Award
Each year, Soroptimist International of Novato recognizes and presents monetary awards to one or more women who have primary financial responsibility for their family and seek to improve their economic status by gaining additional skills, training or education. Live Your Dream winners receive award amounts from $1,500 to $10,000.
Eligibility requirements:
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Is a woman with primary financial responsibility for supporting her family (including children, spouse, siblings and/or parents)
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Attends or has been accepted to a vocational/skills training program, or an undergraduate college program
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Has demonstrated financial need
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Is motivated to achieve her educational and career goals
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Lives, goes to school or attends a skills training program in Novato
We believe education is the pathway to economically empowering women and girls. This unique program is helping women find their voice and purpose while offering the resources they need to succeed.
LIVE YOUR DREAM Education and Training Awards for Women assist women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families by giving them the resources they need to improve their education, skills, and employment prospects. Soroptimists know that education is the key to unlocking economic empowerment of the world’s women and girls. When women and girls are educated, they have opportunity, choice, and power to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. With the Live Your Dream Award we recognize and empower remarkable women who against staggering odds are taking control of their circumstances and working to get the education and training they need to improve their lives and the lives of their children.
Please note that previous recipients and Soroptimist members and their immediate family are not eligible.
We invite qualified women to apply for the LYD award by completing the Application and Reference Forms when available. Email the completed forms to sinovato@soroptimist.net by November 15 of each year.
If you need more information, obtain an application form, or need help with the application, you can contact Jane Gannon at sinovato@soroptimist.net.
NOTE; Live Your Dream cash grants qualify as gifts and therefore are not taxable income to the recipients. Soroptimist clubs in the U.S. do not issue 1099s to recipients or collect W-9 forms for an award amount.
AWARD RECIPIENTS
2024 Awards
Winner #1
Traci, 38, lives in Novato and is pursuing a degree in social work at the College of Marin in Kentfield. Her goal is to become a social worker or counselor for youth, positively impacting their lives. The college’s supportive environment and resources, including EOPS and Supportive and Academic Services, have been invaluable in her journey.
Over the past year, Traci has faced immense personal challenges. She tragically lost her only sister, leaving behind ten children. Stepping up as the family’s rock, she took in two of her nieces—one with fetal alcohol syndrome and ADHD, and another coping with severe trauma—while also raising her own child. Balancing caregiving, grief, and financial instability has been overwhelming, but she remains determined.
Despite job instability and emotional strain, Traci has become an advocate for her nieces, ensuring they receive the educational and mental health support they need. She believes in the power of education to transform lives and is committed to breaking the cycle of hardship. Winning this scholarship would be crucial to achieving her goals and creating a better future for her family.
Winner #2
Cecily, a single mother of a 4-year-old, is pursuing an associate’s degree at the College of Marin. Through the Business and Real Estate program, she is gaining essential knowledge in finance, accounting, marketing, and business law—crucial for her goal of building a career in banking and real estate. She plans to leverage her education and experience to secure a position as a Mortgage Officer, where she can help individuals and families achieve homeownership.
“The Live Your Dream Award provides essential financial support, covering tuition, textbooks, and living expenses,” Cecily shared. “This award validates my hard work and empowers me to achieve my dreams.”
Her ultimate goal is to break the cycle of poverty and create a stable future for her child while inspiring other single mothers to pursue their aspirations. For Cecily, becoming a Mortgage Officer is more than a career—it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Having experienced childhood instability and frequent moves, she understands the value of a secure home. She is especially passionate about helping Latino families navigate the mortgage process, bridging language barriers as a fluent Spanish speaker.
Winner #3
Celia is currently enrolled in the Medical Assisting Certification program at the College of Marin. After 12 years away from school, she has returned to pursue a meaningful career. As a young adult, she struggled with a lack of direction, battling depression and addiction throughout her 20s and early 30s. However, everything changed when she gave birth to her son—on her 32nd birthday.
“Before I had my son, I felt lost and unsure of my purpose,” Celia shared. “Since becoming a mother, I now have direction and a sense of fulfillment. I want a career where I can make a difference while providing for my son.”
After taking a job placement test, Celia decided to pursue medical assisting, a step toward her long-held dream of becoming a nurse. Returning to school was easier than she expected, and she takes great pride in her academic achievements. “I never thought I could get an A on a test, but I’ve proven so much to myself in this short time.” Inspired by her progress, she now envisions continuing her education to become a registered nurse.
Celia acknowledges the challenges ahead but is determined to push forward. “I know I can do it if I put my mind to it. I used to be afraid of the hard work it takes to achieve my dreams, but I’ve already made changes I once thought were impossible.” She credits her son for her transformation, expressing deep gratitude: “I would have never turned my life around if it weren’t for him. He truly saved my life.”
2023 Awards
Winner #1
Cassie, 38, is a second-year nursing student at the College of Marin, set to graduate in May. She holds an associate degree in Natural Science and is also enrolled in a bachelor’s bridge program at the University of Phoenix, aiming to complete her BSN by December 2024. She dreams of pursuing a doctorate in nurse anesthesiology. Cassie is a single mother to a 7-year-old son, who has been her greatest inspiration.
Her journey has been one of resilience and transformation. After enduring a decade of victimization in sex trafficking, she escaped in 2015 while three months pregnant, with nothing to her name. The road to rebuilding her life has been challenging, but through scholarships, school support, and county programs, she has worked tirelessly to heal and pursue her education.
Cassie didn’t initially envision a career in nursing, but her experiences receiving compassionate care inspired her to enter the field. As she nears graduation, she is determined to provide the same care to others that once gave her hope.
“The generosity and support I’ve received have been life-changing. I will work endlessly to touch my patients’ lives, just as those nurses touched mine.”
Winner #2
Claire, 24, lives in San Rafael and is pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing at COM, aiming to graduate by 2027. A single mother to a 6-year-old son, she hopes to become a registered nurse to improve their lives and help others. Claire has faced significant hardships, growing up in an abusive household after her mother abandoned her and her younger brother. She became a mother at 16 while in an unhealthy relationship. Despite these challenges, she is determined to succeed. She dreams of becoming a traveling nurse to explore different cultures and provide care to those in need. The Live Your Dream Award will help alleviate financial stress and support her educational journey.
2022 Awards
Winner #1
Desiri, a 33-year-old resident of Novato, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Education with a focus on Special Education at Sonoma State University, aiming to graduate in 2024. Balancing her studies, she works 30 hours a week and is raising her 8-year-old son as a single parent, following the passing of his father. In addition to her parental responsibilities, Desiri supports her three siblings and two parents. Despite facing health challenges that have led to temporary disabilities, she remains committed to her education and family.
Desiri expressed that receiving an award would significantly assist with tuition, books, supplies, and parking permits. She stated, “This program will help me by furthering my education and graduating with my BA. I will be the first one in my family to complete college. My family is so proud of me and so excited for me to have this experience. They have been my support system and are right behind me cheering me on.” Looking ahead, Desiri aspires to become a lawyer, aiming to set a positive example for her son. She added, “I want to show my son that it’s possible to go to school after high school and get your dreams started. No matter what, go after your dreams and nothing is impossible; everything is possible.”
In 2022, Desiri was honored as the top award winner, recognizing her dedication and perseverance in overcoming personal challenges to achieve her educational goals.
Winner #2
Meylin, a 40-year-old resident of Novato, is a dedicated mother of two children, ages 18 and 12. She is currently pursuing a Medical Assisting program at the College of Marin (COM) and is set to complete her studies in December 2025. In addition, she is enrolled in non-credit ESL classes and hopes to transition into credit courses next year to further improve her English proficiency. Her long-term goal is to earn a Medical Assisting Certificate and work in a medical office.
Meylin shared, “These classes will eventually allow me to work directly with patients. With the completion of my studies, I will be able to give my children a better life, provide them with opportunities for growth, and help them accomplish their goals.”
Her journey has not been easy. She had to postpone her career aspirations due to a high-risk pregnancy and the responsibility of raising her children. Additionally, she faced challenges in an unsupportive marriage of more than seven years and had to overcome domestic violence. Through professional help, she was able to escape that situation and rebuild her life.
Despite these hardships, Meylin remains determined to create a better future for herself and her children. “My journey has not been easy, but my goals to improve myself are greater than all of my challenges,” she said. “Two of my strongest pillars of support have been God and my children. Because of them, I am here today.”
Winner #3
Monsy, a 22-year-old resident of Corte Madera, is a dedicated student and caregiver. She helps support her 16-year-old sibling and parent while pursuing her education at the College of Marin in the Medical Assisting program. With a strong passion for healthcare, she aspires to become a medical technician and hopes to complete her studies by June. Balancing her academic responsibilities, she also works 25 hours a week.
“My main career goal is to obtain my Medical Assistant certificates—both administrative and clinical,” Monsy shared. “I want to work for Kaiser while taking afternoon classes at the College of Marin to earn my associate degree in science. Kaiser also offers a program for ultrasound technicians, which is my ultimate goal. Becoming a medical assistant will open doors to many careers, including ultrasound, X-ray technology, physician assistant roles, and nursing. My education is the foundation of my dream to become the first in my family to achieve financial independence.”
Monsy emphasized how much this award will support her academic journey. “This award will help me tremendously by allowing me to complete and pass all my classes next year. Over the past few months, I have been taking care of my family, which has made it difficult to focus. I’ve had to find extra income by doing DoorDash while also missing work to take my mother, who was diagnosed with pituitary tumors, to her medical appointments.”
Winner #4
Lynette, a 48-year-old resident of Novato, is a dedicated mother of two sons striving to build a better future for herself and her family. She is currently pursuing professional certification training in Business Administration at the College of Marin (COM) and plans to complete her studies by December. Balancing her education with work, she also works 15 hours a week while attending school.
“This scholarship will allow me to pursue a second year of coursework to earn a higher income,” Lynette shared. “I am currently working toward a certificate in Medical Assistant Front Office, which I will complete by the end of 2023. This will enable me to start working in the field. Additionally, I am collaborating with Career Point, a vocational training counselor, to enroll in an online course for a medical billing and coding certificate. I believe this will enhance my resume and expand my qualifications in the field.”
Lynette recognizes the life-changing potential of her education. “The certificate I am currently pursuing offers an entry-level salary of about $55,000 a year, which will help me regain stability and move into more permanent housing. Right now, I am in a transitional shared living situation, but with a second year of education, I could earn around $85,000 annually—enough for my son and me to live comfortably in our own apartment. Without further education, I will remain in a paycheck-to-paycheck cycle, which led to my current struggles as a homeless single mom. I know education is the key to changing my situation and improving my life.”
Lynette’s motivation is deeply rooted in her love for her children and her determination to set a strong example for them. “I want to show my sons—and prove to myself—that I can start something and finish it, no matter the circumstances. I dream of the day I receive my certificate and degree, with both of them by my side, smiling and proud of their mom. I am highly motivated and dedicated to completing my education because I know I am worthy of a better life, and this opportunity will make it a reality.”
Winner #5
Greer, a 40-year-old resident of Novato, is a dedicated mother to her 5-year-old daughter. She is currently pursuing professional certification training in Graphic Design at the College of Marin (COM) and hopes to graduate in 2024. While working 16 hours a week and attending school, she is also committed to creating a better future for herself and her daughter.
“Currently, I am enrolled in COM’s Multimedia Studies program with an emphasis on Graphic Design,” Greer shared. “I have always loved the arts and drawing, and I wanted to find a career where I could use my skills. As a single parent of a child with special needs, I also needed a career that would allow me to work freelance and from home to accommodate my daughter’s needs. Graphic Design is the ideal field for this, and it will also provide me with a stable salary to support my daughter.”
Greer’s journey has been filled with challenges, including losing her dream job as a museum curator in 2016 due to budget cuts, surviving an abusive relationship, and managing her daughter’s medical needs following her autism diagnosis. Despite these hardships, Greer remains determined to build a better life. “School has always been a place where I can remind myself that I am an intelligent and capable human being,” she said. “After my daughter was born, I realized that my degree in archaeology would not provide the stability we needed. While working with specialists to support my daughter’s developmental delays and sensory issues, I decided to pursue Graphic Design. This career not only allows me to combine my love of art with meaningful work, but it also provides the flexibility I need to be present for my daughter.”
Recently, Greer and her daughter moved into Gilead House in Novato, a transition that has brought them newfound stability and peace. “Our days are calmer, and we can focus more on healing from past traumas rather than adding new ones,” she said. “This scholarship will help me start a real savings account so I can begin setting money aside for the future we are building together.”
Winner #6
Evelyn, a 29-year-old resident of San Rafael, is a dedicated mother to her 8-year-old child. She is currently pursuing an associate’s degree in nursing at the College of Marin (COM) and hopes to graduate in 2025. In addition to her studies, she works 10 hours a week while striving to achieve her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse.
“My goal is to become a Registered Nurse so I can care for babies and children,” Evelyn shared. “I want to learn how to save lives and help as many people as I can. Right now, I’m taking pre-nursing courses, and although it has been extremely difficult, I have managed to achieve a 3.88 GPA—something I never thought I could conquer. After completing nursing school and gaining experience in the field, I would love to further my education by earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing or even pursuing a Master’s in Nursing at Touro University in Vallejo.”
Evelyn’s journey has been filled with obstacles. After her son was born in 2014, she dedicated herself to working to provide a stable home. However, by 2015, she could no longer afford rent and found herself homeless, often couch-hopping, sleeping in her car, or staying in budget hotels when she could afford it. “I had a job at Nordstrom, and my boss allowed me to bring my son to work with me,” she recalled. “I worked overnight shifts—it was rough on both of us, but we got through it. I became depressed and scared, not knowing how to better our lives. I had no support, no help.”
In 2021, after six years of hard work, Evelyn was let go from Nordstrom. “At that time, I thought my life was over—until I found the CalWORKs Program, which truly saved my life,” she said. Through the program, she was connected with the right people who helped her secure stable housing for herself and her son. This opportunity allowed her to return to school and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. She also gained valuable experience through a work-study job.
Despite having ADD, Evelyn refuses to let it stand in the way of her goals. “I work hard and stay up late studying because I am determined to succeed,” she said. “Returning to college has been life-changing. It has helped me heal from the trauma I lived through for six years.”
In addition to excelling academically, Evelyn has also fulfilled another lifelong dream—playing soccer. She is now a member of the College of Marin Women’s Soccer Team. “Soccer has been a great coping mechanism for my stress and mental health,” she shared. “It has helped me eliminate negativity and stay focused on my academic journey. Through college, I have also received mental health support, which has allowed me to heal deep wounds.”
Evelyn’s story is one of perseverance and hope. “I never believed I could be successful,” she said, “but I am doing it now. I hope to inspire other single moms to give themselves a chance like I did.”
2020-21 Award
Winner #1 received $5,000 from our local Soroptimist club! Keeping her identity anonymous, we are pleased to report that our recipient is a College of Marin student and is pursuing her bachelor's degree in social work. She is a single mom with a young boy. Her story is quite compelling and her passion for helping others is inspiring. Her application is so heart rendering that it will be forwarded to the Soroptimist regional level for additional regional funding.
Winner #2 received $1,000 from our local club. Also being anonymous, we are delighted to report that she is also a College of Marin student and entrepreneur. "My dream goal is to own my own business. Failing is not an option for me. My daughter's [two year old] future is counting on me to succeed."
2019-20 Award
This year, our club awarded four women with Live Your Dream Awards for a total of $7,000, which includes a generous gift of $1,000 from Marian Huntington, CEO of Novato Spirit. Each applicant shares a compelling story of a woman's courage, fortitude, persistence, and love.
Winner #1 immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico where she received her high school diploma. She is now enrolled at College of Marin to be a Medical Technician. She is 40 years old and is raising four children ages 15, 12, 11, and 10. She currently lives at Gilead House in one room with her four children. She said, "I have dreamed all my life to be able to go to school and study. I want to be a nurse someday. This is my first time going to school in the USA, and it is important to complete my education goals so I can have a better job to support my kids. I want to set a good example for my kids and show that education is the key for success that opens many doors on the life path. Thank you for this great opportunity."
Winner #2 is 31 with two children ages 1 and 7. Her goal is to be an Ultrasound Technician, and she is working on her AA degree at College of Marin. She intends to obtain a BS degree at Kaiser School for Allied Sciences. She was raised in a family with parents having addiction issues and moved frequently. Her children have experienced domestic violence, homelessness and more. She is determined never to have to experience any of that again.
Winner #3 is 29 and is a single mom raising two children ages 1 and 4. She is studying nursing at College of Marin and has aspirations to become a Registered Nurse. She said, "I aspire to become a successful global citizen by aligning myself in a positive work place with people who share similar core values."
Winner #4 has two children ages 16 and 13. She is enrolled in College of Marin in the early childhood education program. She came to the U.S. at age 18 and was involved in an abusive relationship. She also has several medical issues and physical limitations. She volunteers in the community at Center for Domestic Peace, Lady of Loretto, the Salvation Army, Marin Girls Chorus, and the Novato Police Department.