Ruby Award: For Women Helping Women

The Ruby Award is an award that may be given by clubs in Soroptimist International of the Americas to recognize women or organizations who are helping other women and girls in the local communities. It is named in honor of the first Federation President, Ruby Minar.

Anyone – either a member of Soroptimist or outside of the club—may nominate a woman for this award. A woman may even nominate herself for the award. The winner chosen at the club level is given a monetary award for her organization.

The Soroptimist Ruby Award recipient should be a woman who:

• Has worked to improve the lives of women and girls;
• Has had a significant impact on the lives of women and girls;
• Inspires and encourages other women.

Applications are due by December 1 each year

Violet Richardson Award

As a volunteer service organization, Soroptimist believes that by acknowledging young women's volunteer involvement now, they will grow up to be vital active members of the community.

The Violet Richardson Award honors young women between the ages of 14 and 18 for volunteer action such as fighting drugs, crime and violence, cleaning up the environment and working to end discrimination and poverty.

The award is named after Violet Richardson, the president of the first Soroptimist club in Alameda County in 1921. Richardson believed in personal responsibility and the motto, “It's what you do that counts.” She lived her life accordingly, as an active member in her community who was committed to creating opportunities for girls and young women. Soroptimist established this award to honor the memory of this unique woman and her dedication to volunteer action.

Applications are due by December 15 each year