Applications for the Women’s Opportunity Award, sponsored by Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor, are now available.

This is an award intended to assist women in overcoming personal difficulties and bettering their lives through education and skills training. The women who receive the award may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, such as tuition, books, childcare, or car repairs. The award is offered to a woman, primary wage earner in the household pursuing an undergraduate or vocational degree.

Last year’s award was granted to longtime San Juan Island resident Angela Bolger to assist her in her studies to become a Licensed Registered Nurse. She also qualified for an award at the Regional level and received additional financial support for her studies.

Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor has made $5,000 available for this award for a woman in San Juan County. Local recipients become eligible to receive region-level awards for additional funds. (This award is not a scholarship, and is therefore taxable for U.S. citizens.)

Applications are available at The Toy Box (Nancy Hanson) in Friday Harbor, or by calling Nancy at 378-8889, or Kristine Odle at 298-2623. Kristine can also provide help to anyone interested in completing an application.

Application deadline is Dec. 15.

For additional information regarding eligibility or the application process, contact Kristine Odle at kodle@rockisland.com or 298-2623.