HIDDEN VALLEY LAKE, Calif. – Soroptimist International of Clear Lake held its awards luncheon on Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Greenview Room in Hidden Valley Lake. 

“Live Your Dream” cash awards were given to three women who head of household or the sole providers for their families. 

They are currently enrolled in college courses to reach  their career goals.

Kristen Perkins received $500; Alisa Burris, $1,000; and the first-place winner, Jennifer Allen Malinowski, received $2,500.

This money can be used for tuition, books, transportation, childcare, or any expense to help ease the costs of attending college. 

The Ruby Award was given to Barbara Christwitz for her volunteer efforts to help women and girls in Lake County. 

Along with her Ruby Award, she received $300, which she is donating to the Freedom House domestic violence shelter run by Lake Family Resource Center.

All these women had inspiring stories and Soroptimist International of Clear Lake wishes them success in obtaining their goals.

Invited guests at the event were Mari Valdez, Healthy Start coordinator at Lower Lake High School, and Jolene Chappel, coordinator of The Nest in Lakeport.