The signature program of Soroptimist International of the Americas, the Live Your Dream Education and Training Award, recognizes women heads of household responsible for the financial support of their families who are improving their employment status through further education or training.

Every year, Soroptimist International of the Americas distributes more than $2.9 million in education awards to over 2,000 women all over the world. SI Vallejo gave $16,000 in 2025!

Over half of our Live Your Dream Awards recipients are survivors of domestic violence, trafficking or sexual assault. Nearly all of the women and families we serve have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, teen pregnancy, and drug or alcohol addiction. Live Your Dream Awards recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, such as books, childcare, tuition and transportation. 

Why is this important?

• Because when women learn, families live healthier lives
• When girls go to school, they are more likely to get paying jobs and their financial contributions to their families - and their nations - increase
• When girls have educated moms, they are more likely to be enrolled in school and to reach higher levels of education
• When women are educated, their countries are more likely to have greater economic growth