Live Your Dream Awards
Congratulations to our 2020 Award Recipients!
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Denay Gonzales
2019-2020 SILJ LYD First Place Winner Notes from Application dated 10-9-2019. Denay is a single mother of two children, ages 8 and 5 years. She is attending San Diego State University and studying for a degree in Social Work. Her interest and focus are on children, and plans to work as a child welfare worker while later pursuing her next goal of obtaining a master’s in social work. Denay’s goal is to become a licensed clinical social worker and to open her own private practice. Denay is the first in her family to pursue a higher education. Both her parents did not have the opportunity to even complete their elementary school education. Being a child of immigrants who had no knowledge of the language or lifestyle, she had to figure things out on her own from early on, everything from homework to college applications. In 2010 Denay’s younger passed away suddenly, and it was one of the hardest things for Denay to go through. Shortly after this, Denay met a man and began a long-term relationship where he was abusive both mentally and physically. She was very young and had no self-esteem. Once she had children the abuse only got worse. It was on one day after a bad argument including physical abuse, Denay decided to leave no matter the cost. She moved into her parents’ home, and after six months decided to go to school, starting with community college, and now at San Diego State University. While attending school, caring for her children, Denay also works part-time. Her children are here greatest motivation to complete her schooling. Denay feels the challenges she has faced in her life have only made her stronger and have given her a clearer outlook on what she wants from life and will get her to the finish line. Rebecca Figueroa
2019-2020 SILJ LYD Second Place Awardee Notes from LYD application dated 11-7-2019. Rebecca is the mother of three children, ages 11, 10 and 3. She is studying at Mesa College for a degree in Health Information Technology and works part-time in a low socio-economic elementary school. First, Rebecca plans to complete the Health Information Management program, and then continue her education by obtaining a master’s degree in Public Health. She looks forward to working in a profession where she can give back to her community and the world, and plans to work in a low socio-economic community. She looks forward to the day her children will watch her walk across the stage to receive her degree. She strives to be a role model who is determined and never gives up. With hard work Rebecca plans to provide a positive life for her children. Rebecca is a survivor of domestic violence and mental abuse. She takes pride she was able to escape a difficult situation and is working hard to create a peaceful and happy life for her children. Rebecca’s work as an instructional assistance for the resource specialist program brings her much happiness and satisfaction. She wants her children to know the sky is the limit and goals can be reached. Rebecca values her education and feels her love of learning will result in an amazing career. Raneigh Aguilera
2019-2020 SILJ LYD Third Place Awardee Notes from application dated 11-6-2019. Raneigh is a single parent of a son and daughter, ages 9 and 7. She is attending Grossmont College, studying psychology. Her main goal is to provide her children with a better future in a loving home, and for her to grow as a self-sufficient person. Raneigh is one semester from completing her associate degree, and then will pursue a bachelor’s degree and master’s in counseling. She states it is a long road ahead, but worth it as it will help others. Raneigh is the first college student in her family. Raneigh was born in Fairfield, California, and raised since the age of seven in Puerto Vallarta, Jal. Mexico, being raised by a single mother. Upon returning to the United States, Raneigh married and had her children. The marriage lasted seven years, and was an abusive relationship, both physically and mentally. Raneigh is going through a long court case for custody of the children, plus the children and Raneigh have ADHD and PTSD. Despite this, Raneigh keeps her educational goals and the happiness of her children as priorities. |
2019 Award Recipients
Read below, or witness their stories in their own words. (Click Here)
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HONOREE: LAYLA GREEN
First-Place Winner I am a 23-year-old native San Diegan and a single mom. With my biological father in and out of jail and my biological mother suffering from a mental disorder and drug addictions, life was not easy. My brother was murdered when I was five-years old, and a sister was born on drugs when I was nine-years old. I spent the first nine years of my life in and out of foster homes until my God-mother stepped in and she adopted me. I always had the desire to go to college, so right out of high school I attended CSU Dominquez Hills, one of my top choices for college. However, during my first year of college I became pregnant. I still finished the school year with a 4.0 GPA, and three weeks later, I delivered my baby boy five weeks early. Stressed with the new struggles of having a premature child and financial issues, I had to drop out of school. I moved in with my parents; our relationship became estranged and I had no choice but to stay in this abusive situation for almost two years. Then I decided to escape with my son, and because we didn’t have any support, we were homeless for over a year. After mending the relationship with my mom, I was finally accepted into a program for homeless mothers. During this time, I was able to work, save money for a car and pay off debt in order to return to school. An additional challenge over the last two years has been my son’s behavioral and school issues, which may be due to PTSD. I managed to finish the semester with a 3.7 GPA. I plan to apply to Point Loma Nazarene and San Diego State University this coming Fall to obtain my BA and eventually MA in Psychology and Social Work. I am excited to move forward with my education and hope to be able to help foster-youth like myself, succeed in life despite their circumstances. HONOREE: RUQIYO HAJI
Second-Place Winner Imagine living in a community where people believe a woman doesn’t need an education after marriage. My name is Ruqiyo, I am 21 years old and I was born in Somalia. I came to the United States at the age of 11 with my mother who was raising 6 kids by herself. We left Somalia because of the war and the lack of possibilities for education. My mother wanted my siblings and I to get the opportunities that were not available in our community. She left her country, her family and everything she loves just because she wanted her children to have a better life. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I have twin boys and I want to be a good role model to them and show my community that a woman can get married have kids and still educate herself and pursue her dreams. My long-term goal is to become a teacher because teachers play a very essential role in the field of education. Teachers shape the future of everyone by providing the best education and role models for her or his students. Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. -Nelson Mandela HONOREE: FRANCIA T.
Third-Place Winner My name is Francia. I have a beautiful, young daughter who is my motor in life. The was born with spina bifida and through her life she has faced many health setbacks. At present she is waiting for a kidney transplant. One of the biggest challenges I faced from a young age, was dealing with my daughter’s illness, but I had the unconditional love and support from my beloved father. However, he passed away unexpectedly while my daughter fought for her life in the hospital, and I struggled to cope with my loss while having to put on a strong face for my daughter. To meet our daily needs and pay medical bills my education was put on the backseat numerous times. For many years I have worked multiple jobs simultaneously in the medical field. My work is emotionally difficult, but I like to think I am making a difference in the lives of others. I am grateful for the opportunity that Soroptimist International of La Jolla has offered me. I will be able to “live my dream” of finishing Nursing School, and I look forward to continue working in the medical field. HONOREE: ALICIA CHATMAN
Fourth-Place Tie “Life is all about unlimited possibilities,” Unknown. This is a quote that I carry strongly throughout my day to day life. Hello, my name is Alicia Chatman, I am twenty-six years old; I also have a beautiful four-year-old daughter “Kaylee”. At birth I was diagnosed with Cerebral palsy which is a disorder of permanent muscle movements that appear in early childhood. It acts by affecting areas of the brain. In spite of the hard obstacles that I have endured in my life, I changed my perspective in life, to “beautiful struggles”. I am a hard-working single mother. I’m currently in my last semester at San Diego City College, and I’m proud to say that my GPA is currently 3.5. I must work twice as hard as others to keep my grades up, but I refuse to quit. I’m highly involved with my daughter and her education. I’m the president of her school and I volunteer on my off days. I want to be the best role model for my child. I want to instill in her that education is key. I just learned that I was accepted by San Diego State University to major in Social Work. I plan to help people and children of color, I want to be the voice that they do not have. I truly believe that my mission on this earth is to help others. I’m humbly honored to tie in fourth place, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to Soroptimist International of La Jolla for believing in me, and supporting me to follow my dreams. Remember, “Life is all about unlimited possibilities”! HONOREE: TARA WASHINGTON
Fourth-Place Tie I was born in Pulaski County in Little Rock, and grew up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. I've had some humbling challenges in the beginning of my life from being physically, mentally, verbally abused, abandoned by my mother, and sexually abused repeatedly by a close male relative. From the age of twelve, I survived sixteen or more foster homes and a group orphanage facility. Through abusive foster care situations, I learned how to become resilient, overcome hardship, hurt and pain through perseverance. At the age of nineteen I married a man whom I thought was my best friend. My marriage of eleven years included physical, mental, and emotional abuse. This man took away my self-love, confidence and kept me in a state of fear. We divorced, and on August 11, 2009, my life took another turn when my ex-husband kidnapped my sons at the age of twelve and fourteen, flew them to Puerto Rico where they lived with his girlfriend while he stayed in Michigan. They were alone. I did not see my children for several years. My ex-husband told my sons I didn't want them and that I had abandoned them. My oldest son, age twenty-five years, was reunited with me in January 2017, and is coping with mental illness. My middle son, age twenty-three years is now reunited with me after surviving traumatic abuse from his father. He is having to learn to cope with PTSD and mental illness. I made up my mind to pursue my goals by continuing my education at Southwestern Community College which includes receiving an Associate of Science Degree in Administration of Justice then transferring to SDSU where I expect to graduate with a BA degree in Criminal Justice. My long-term educational goal is to enter law school and become a Prosecuting Attorney, being the first in my family to graduate College. I want to empower others by giving back to my community what I have learned through education, and to be a model of inspiration to my three sons. I am truly honored that Soroptimist International of La Jolla has selected to help with my educational goals by giving me a monetary award this year. |
2018 Award Recipients
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Honoree: Name Withheld
First Place Winner by SILJ -and- A TOP WINNER chosen by SIA Born in a dangerous area of the Middle East, our Honoree was surrounded by violence and intimidation preventing girls from attending school. Her parents believed deeply in the value of education and had enrolled their seven children in private underground schools. Sadly, terrorists found out and murdered her father, sending the family into isolation and poverty. Within months, her mother died from a heart attack. Being the eldest of the children, she stepped into her parents’ role as provider and head-of-household for her younger siblings. She tried to continue her mother’s work in "Women and Children Capacity Building,” making women’s healthcare and education a top priority. When the terrorists found out and threatened to murder the rest of the family, she knew it was time to act. In 2012, the State Department granted asylum for her to move to the United States. Her six younger siblings were left behind in a far dangerous situation. At first, she felt unable to protect them. But in 2015, through her efforts, the help of an American friend and “Survivors of Torture,” they all arrived safely here. Once in America she attended college while being the foster care provider for her siblings. In 2018, she’s honored to have earned her U.S. citizenship. Our Honoree now holds a degree in Political Science/International Relations at UCSD. Her dream is to become an attorney and work for peace and justice. Honoree: Fatima Stanion
Second Place Winner “I learned the cycle of abuse too well, because I was living in it. I chose to isolate myself to avoid problems and make my husband happy, only to realize that I was also falling short of his expectations which left me exhausted. The balancing act between his demands, outbursts of anger while all the time protecting my children was very tiring. It took me a long time to wake up, but at last I did. As a first-generation immigrant woman, having to navigate leaving a violent relationship left me feeling isolated, alone, and hopeless. The financial hardships that I have been facing since I left my abuser have been overwhelming, and very taxing to my health. As I continue my journey, possibly facing homelessness with my children, I am also navigating the painful legal process of a divorce. It was through those moments of feeling hopeless and discouraged for the lack of support that I knew the only way out of my situation was through a college education. In order to help my children, I had to be able to help myself first; I felt challenged to continue my schooling. It is with great pride that after almost two years I am continuing my education and getting ready to transfer to a four-year university.” Honoree: Jessica B.
Third Place Winner The young daughter of abusive alcoholic parents, Jessica was placed in the meandering journey of the foster care system at age 10. At age 18, she was released. Incapable of surviving everyday life, it felt unbearable to be “alive in my own skin.: To cope, Jessica turned to drugs and alcohol. Near death and nearly losing her child, she made the decision to change. In 2016, Jessica is pursuing her dream of the psychology degree given up years ago. She is reaching out to supportive people. Her aspiration is to help people of all backgrounds find their way to a healthy life. Jessica is creating a better future for her daughter. “I am grateful for the challenges that have shaped me into the hard working, compassionate, courageous human being that I am today. Today I do not live in fear. Today I go after my dreams. Today I know who I am.” Honoree: Ester G.
Fourth Place Winner Nineteen-years old, with a two-year-old daughter, Ester was in foster care from the age of eight. As a single mother since the day she was born, Ester is proud to be a mom. Playing soccer and going on adventures with her child bring much joy, which also includes the simple things like cooking, and taking many, many pictures. Ester is in her second year of college, majoring in Social Work. Her plan is to achieve a master’s degree in Sociology. With a degree in social work, her dream is to pursue a career in mental health, working in either a mental hospital or prisons around the country. Ester wants to help people with serious mental health problems. Pleased to have placed fourth, and “to know that I now have the support and encouragement of Soroptimist International in continuing to pursue my dream.” |
2017 Award Recipients
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Chuc Le
Chuc Le, a single mother of three elementary children, of which two boys have been diagnosed with autism grew up in a small village in South Vietnam. As one of six siblings, abandoned by their father she graduated from school and left home to reduce the burden on her mother. Immigrated to California ten years ago dreaming of a better life. After marrying and moving to San Diego to be closer to her husband’s family she was unable to work due to her pregnancy. Her marriage spiraled down after the birth of the boys, her husband deserted her and she took on the responsibility of being head of household. Three years ago she enrolled in San Diego Mesa College as a full time student, majoring in Health Information Management. With great effort and perseverance, she has earned a 4.0 GPA and on the Dean’s List three consecutive years. Chuc Le says she hopes to build a life with her newfound education that will allow her the opportunity to provide for her family and contribute to society. The Soroptimist International of La Jolla “Live Your Dream” award will show not only me, but also my children that my efforts are being rewarded and pursuing an education is worthwhile. Hanlyyah Haqq
As a child I thought women earned money the way my Mom did, going in and out of the hotel rooms at all hours of the day and night. Clearly not an environment for a little girl. Entering foster care at age 13 and with 21 different placements, I felt abandonment, neglect, and vulnerability. I met a man who promised me love, something I had always missed. All I had to do was make money for him, I thought, no problem. After many beatings, both physically and mentally I finally found the courage to call the police and was taken to a safer place. After having my daughter I knew I had to provide a better life and be someone she was proud of. I was introduced to "Kitchens for Good" a culinary job training for people with barriers. My passion is to be a chef and own my own restaurant. I am also attending school to learning accounting to know the financial side of the business. The Live Your Dream will be a blessing to help pay for child care while I attend school. I want to end with “no matter what life throws me,I will succeed in life, as a mother and as a role model” |
2016 Award Recipients
Women's Opportunity Awards
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Brenda Kimble
Brenda Kimble is the mother of two daughters, a teenager and a toddler. She began military service in 2002, has earned an AS degree and among other medical and administrative positions, served as a Hospital Corpsman and Medical Laboratory Technician. Brenda has a five-step plan to bring stability and economic security to her family. She is now on Step 2 since leaving the service. The Live Your Dream Award will support Brenda’s enrollment and success in the Physician’s Assistant Program offered by Southern California University, while maintaining full-time employment. She expects to complete the program in October 2016 and then enter the Stanford Primary Care Assistant Program in June 2017. She is inspired by her children to be an exemplary role model. Her motto is, “Find your niche and you’ll never fear a glitch. Life will only get easier when living your passion.” |
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Samantha Romero Green
Samantha Romero Green, a native of Panama, has an abounding empathy and strives to combat social injustice and she believes in access to quality mental health treatment for all. She achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer after serving 10 years in the U.S. Navy. At the same time she travelled extensively and also raised a young daughter as a single parent. She now supports two children and her mother after graduating from Ashford University with a Sociology degree in June 2013. Supported by the LYD Award, Samantha’s immediate goal is to enroll in USC’s Military Social Work program, earn a master’s degree and eventually become a social worker. The resilience of her mother and her grandmother, combined with her own life experiences motivate Samantha to build a career based on service to underserved populations in diverse communities. |
Violet Richardson Award*
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Veronica Tang
Veronica is a sophomore at the Bishop's School, she is a co-founder of All Girls STEM Society: www.allgirlsstemsociety.org. Veronica’s interest in STEM was sparked in 6th grade when she volunteered at an event to teach autistic children circuitry with breadboards. In 2014, Veronica became involved with Math for Service to bring the All-Girls Math Tournament to San Diego. The math tournament’s success inspired her and her friend to launch All Girls STEM Society (AGSS), an organization aiming to provide a fun and encouraging learning platform for young girls to develop interests in STEM. AGSS has already hosted many workshops that have attracted more than 200 girls from 48 schools across San Diego County. She feels that her work for AGSS has given her the power to empower other aspiring girls. After high school, Veronica would like to attend an engineering school to study and research computer science. |
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Ariana Dennis Ariana is a junior at La Jolla High School, she is the founder of the Afghan Relief Club. I have always been able to describe myself as very assertive, passionate, and motivated. I know what my goals are and possess the unwavering focus to achieve them. In the fall of 2014, I founded the Afghan Relief Club at my school. I have taken part in many charity groups but, because I am Afghan, I felt a personal connection to start this club to not only raise money for girls schools in Afghanistan, but to bring awareness of the civilian life in the region to my peers, an aspect often media fails to portray. I plan on majoring in international relations and women’s studies and hope to get involved with the United Nations with the goal to ensure that girls around the world receive the basic human rights they are entitled to in order for them to progress in the world we live in. |
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Margaux Kelley
Margaux Kelley is a junior at La Jolla High School and a founding member of BraveCort Foundation. For the past several years Margaux has been working with several foundations to help spread awareness for the fight against pediatric cancer. A founding member of the BraveCort Foundation, Margaux has helped to raise over $50,000 for the cause by gathering support from within the community. This money was applied to another $250,000 research grant that was given to three groups working to develop an early indicator blood test. More importantly, over the last year Margaux has joined Relay for Life, an event hosted by the American Cancer Society. By recruiting high school bands, clubs, and sports teams, Margaux has worked to increase the participation of youth in the battle against cancer. Since the death of her brother to cancer, she has become very motivated to find a cure. Furthermore, she plans to continue her studies and become a pediatric oncologist one day. |
2015 Award Recipients
Women's Opportunity Awards
Wilnisha Sutton
Winning the LYD scholarship helped me out so much on so many different levels. I was going through a difficult time when I received a letter that I had won. I cried and praised God because it was a total blessing. As the mother of one son, I was able to catch up on some bills, get my car fixed, and buy school books and clothes. To invest in my dream, I paid for a nice webside for my music. My website www.tru7hwas.com is beautiful and professional. I wouldn't have it if I hadn't won. I have shared my journey on social media, where I have about 7000 followers and many asked about Soroptimist. My award hangs high in my living room, and it motivates me when I get discouraged. Thank you ladies so much. Blessings.
Winning the LYD scholarship helped me out so much on so many different levels. I was going through a difficult time when I received a letter that I had won. I cried and praised God because it was a total blessing. As the mother of one son, I was able to catch up on some bills, get my car fixed, and buy school books and clothes. To invest in my dream, I paid for a nice webside for my music. My website www.tru7hwas.com is beautiful and professional. I wouldn't have it if I hadn't won. I have shared my journey on social media, where I have about 7000 followers and many asked about Soroptimist. My award hangs high in my living room, and it motivates me when I get discouraged. Thank you ladies so much. Blessings.
Scarlett Lawrence
Hello, my name is Scarlett Lawrence. I am a past recipient of the Live Your Dream Award from Soroptimist International of La Jolla. During my college experience, I balanced college, career, and family among other things. The Live Your Dream Award helped me achieve my dream by helping me get through college because I was able to use the award to help ends meet. And guess what? I’m graduating college with my Bachelor of Business Administration in May 2016, just a few months away. Yay. And the Live Your Dream Award helped me. Words can't express my feelings of gratitude. Thank you very much.
Hello, my name is Scarlett Lawrence. I am a past recipient of the Live Your Dream Award from Soroptimist International of La Jolla. During my college experience, I balanced college, career, and family among other things. The Live Your Dream Award helped me achieve my dream by helping me get through college because I was able to use the award to help ends meet. And guess what? I’m graduating college with my Bachelor of Business Administration in May 2016, just a few months away. Yay. And the Live Your Dream Award helped me. Words can't express my feelings of gratitude. Thank you very much.
Violet Richardson Award*
Claire Edwards
Claire Edwards attends The Bishop's School, and just completed her sophomore year this year in June. She is the cofounder of Enriching Young Minds (EYM), a club from her school that supports Toler Elementary, a title one elementary school, through after school visits and donation drives. Motivated by the Bishop’s sophomore fall retreats, where each student chose a San Diego organization to volunteer at for three days, She worked with classmates to found this club as a continuation of our work at Toler. Our achievements this year include a club visit to Toler to help with the Prime Time after school program, as well as a book drive at our school where we raised over 1,000 books for Toler Elementary School and Nativity Preparatory School.
Claire’s overarching plan for the future is to help children of low income families around San Diego receive more attention in terms of health and education, which is why I am so passionate about helping out at locations such as Toler Elementary and The Monarch School. I would like to help change the school experience for children around San Diego who struggle with the basic needs of food, shelter, and safety. By providing books, supplies and food, reading with children during the school day, playing with them after school, and putting on occasional school wide events, I believe that with the fellow members of EYM and as an individual, I can help make a positive difference in the lives of these young children.
Claire Edwards attends The Bishop's School, and just completed her sophomore year this year in June. She is the cofounder of Enriching Young Minds (EYM), a club from her school that supports Toler Elementary, a title one elementary school, through after school visits and donation drives. Motivated by the Bishop’s sophomore fall retreats, where each student chose a San Diego organization to volunteer at for three days, She worked with classmates to found this club as a continuation of our work at Toler. Our achievements this year include a club visit to Toler to help with the Prime Time after school program, as well as a book drive at our school where we raised over 1,000 books for Toler Elementary School and Nativity Preparatory School.
Claire’s overarching plan for the future is to help children of low income families around San Diego receive more attention in terms of health and education, which is why I am so passionate about helping out at locations such as Toler Elementary and The Monarch School. I would like to help change the school experience for children around San Diego who struggle with the basic needs of food, shelter, and safety. By providing books, supplies and food, reading with children during the school day, playing with them after school, and putting on occasional school wide events, I believe that with the fellow members of EYM and as an individual, I can help make a positive difference in the lives of these young children.
Athena Dong
Athena Dong is a student at La Jolla High school, she finished her junior year in June, 2015. She is the co-president and founder of The Water Project, which, as its name suggests, focuses on water, a topic that has been extremely pertinent as of late, whether it involves foreign communities who do not have access to clean drinking water, or the local coastline. Last year, the funds raised by the club aided in the construction of a well in Rwanda. The club also hosts monthly beach clean-ups, trying to focus on holidays so that we can rid our coastal environment of the inevitable amount of trash that collects over the long weekend.
In the 2015-16 school year, like many other seniors, Athena will be applying for admission to college. In relation to The Water Project, she hopes that the club will able to contribute to a new well in Uganda. She will be taking an Environmental Science class, which she believes will give her a better perspective on how best to concentrate the efforts of the club when it comes to making an impact on the local environment. Outside of school, she will continue to volunteer at the local library and VA hospital- it is something that she truly enjoys and many people seem to appreciate.
Athena Dong is a student at La Jolla High school, she finished her junior year in June, 2015. She is the co-president and founder of The Water Project, which, as its name suggests, focuses on water, a topic that has been extremely pertinent as of late, whether it involves foreign communities who do not have access to clean drinking water, or the local coastline. Last year, the funds raised by the club aided in the construction of a well in Rwanda. The club also hosts monthly beach clean-ups, trying to focus on holidays so that we can rid our coastal environment of the inevitable amount of trash that collects over the long weekend.
In the 2015-16 school year, like many other seniors, Athena will be applying for admission to college. In relation to The Water Project, she hopes that the club will able to contribute to a new well in Uganda. She will be taking an Environmental Science class, which she believes will give her a better perspective on how best to concentrate the efforts of the club when it comes to making an impact on the local environment. Outside of school, she will continue to volunteer at the local library and VA hospital- it is something that she truly enjoys and many people seem to appreciate.
2014 Award Recipients
Women's Opportunity Awards
Jesse Michelle Kuneff – Second Place Winner
Jesse is the mother of two children ages 7 and 13 and has a disabled mother. Jesse is currently attending National University working towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education Administration. She also works full time in an administrative position in a Headstart Preschool Program.
Due to physical disabilities, she has gone through life having to overcome stereotypes and has had to prove her abilities even more so than a typical looking woman.
One of Jesse's references said "She is the first to lend a hand, feed an empty belly and offer a shoulder to lean on. I am thankful for Ms. Kuneff for all her wisdom, kindness and helpful nature. She is a shining example to our agency of being a success story."
Jesse is the mother of two children ages 7 and 13 and has a disabled mother. Jesse is currently attending National University working towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education Administration. She also works full time in an administrative position in a Headstart Preschool Program.
Due to physical disabilities, she has gone through life having to overcome stereotypes and has had to prove her abilities even more so than a typical looking woman.
One of Jesse's references said "She is the first to lend a hand, feed an empty belly and offer a shoulder to lean on. I am thankful for Ms. Kuneff for all her wisdom, kindness and helpful nature. She is a shining example to our agency of being a success story."
Paramdeep T. – Third Place Winner
Paramdeep is the mother of two children and is currently a student at San Diego Miramar College and intends to transfer to a 4 year program. She wants to become a teacher and/or work with children. Recently separated, Paramdeep realized that her lack of formal education was a roadblock to her being able to provide a better future for herself and her children.
One of Paramdeep's references said "Paramdeep is very much a people person. She has an affinity with kids and has chosen an educational path that will lead to a career where her passion and heart is. Her dedication to her education and her ability to handle the challenges in her life with a positive outlook make her a perfect candidate for this award."
Paramdeep is the mother of two children and is currently a student at San Diego Miramar College and intends to transfer to a 4 year program. She wants to become a teacher and/or work with children. Recently separated, Paramdeep realized that her lack of formal education was a roadblock to her being able to provide a better future for herself and her children.
One of Paramdeep's references said "Paramdeep is very much a people person. She has an affinity with kids and has chosen an educational path that will lead to a career where her passion and heart is. Her dedication to her education and her ability to handle the challenges in her life with a positive outlook make her a perfect candidate for this award."
Violet Richardson Award*
Jenna Nastrini
Throughout high school, Jenna Nastrini, a Senior at Cathedral Catholic High School has been actively involved with Build A Miracle. BAM is a grass roots non-profit organization based in Scripps Ranch that has built over 170 homes for extremely needy families in Tijuana. In 2013, Jenna singlehandedly raised over $14,000 to both build and furnish a three bedroom home for a family of seven that had been previously living in extremely dire conditions. Jenna started the fund with $1,000 of her own money that she earned teaching dance to young girls. She then received over 60 donations from family, friends, teachers, neighbors, coaches and classmates. Previously living in a one-room makeshift shack with no doors, warm water, plumbing and a dirt floor, the Vasquez family now sleeps in a safe, warm, furnished three-bedroom home. Prior to November 17, 2013, none of the Vasquez children had ever slept in their own bed or taken a shower. They used an outdoor hose. "Their wildest dream became a reality thanks to the kindness and support of so many people that were eager to help", shared Jenna. "This was the most meaningful experience of my life." In her free time Jenna is the captain of the Varsity Dance Team at Cathedral Catholic High School and is also actively involved in the school Campus Ministry program. For more information visit www.buildamiracle.net.
Throughout high school, Jenna Nastrini, a Senior at Cathedral Catholic High School has been actively involved with Build A Miracle. BAM is a grass roots non-profit organization based in Scripps Ranch that has built over 170 homes for extremely needy families in Tijuana. In 2013, Jenna singlehandedly raised over $14,000 to both build and furnish a three bedroom home for a family of seven that had been previously living in extremely dire conditions. Jenna started the fund with $1,000 of her own money that she earned teaching dance to young girls. She then received over 60 donations from family, friends, teachers, neighbors, coaches and classmates. Previously living in a one-room makeshift shack with no doors, warm water, plumbing and a dirt floor, the Vasquez family now sleeps in a safe, warm, furnished three-bedroom home. Prior to November 17, 2013, none of the Vasquez children had ever slept in their own bed or taken a shower. They used an outdoor hose. "Their wildest dream became a reality thanks to the kindness and support of so many people that were eager to help", shared Jenna. "This was the most meaningful experience of my life." In her free time Jenna is the captain of the Varsity Dance Team at Cathedral Catholic High School and is also actively involved in the school Campus Ministry program. For more information visit www.buildamiracle.net.
2013 Award Recipient
Cassandra Robinson
In 2013, I won the Live Your Dream Award. It was during a time I didn't have much confidence in my future. Nevertheless, the fact that I was chosen for the award out of so many other applicants gave me the confidence I needed to move forward. Since receiving the award, I have received my certification in counsel- ing, I just completed my degree requirements at Ashford University and will be receiving my BA in Psychology!
BUT THAT'S NOT ALL! SOROPTIMIST AND I ARE STILL CONNECTED! Soroptimist not only helped me, but is also a huge supporter of the Big Sister League - from a member styling outfits for BSL residents, to purchasing beds, food, and anything else our residents need. Recently, we had a fire at our downtown location, and once again Soroptimist La Jolla and San Diego came to our rescue. Yoladies are Angels on Earth, and we are eternally grateful for your support
In 2013, I won the Live Your Dream Award. It was during a time I didn't have much confidence in my future. Nevertheless, the fact that I was chosen for the award out of so many other applicants gave me the confidence I needed to move forward. Since receiving the award, I have received my certification in counsel- ing, I just completed my degree requirements at Ashford University and will be receiving my BA in Psychology!
BUT THAT'S NOT ALL! SOROPTIMIST AND I ARE STILL CONNECTED! Soroptimist not only helped me, but is also a huge supporter of the Big Sister League - from a member styling outfits for BSL residents, to purchasing beds, food, and anything else our residents need. Recently, we had a fire at our downtown location, and once again Soroptimist La Jolla and San Diego came to our rescue. Yoladies are Angels on Earth, and we are eternally grateful for your support
*The Violet Richardson Award recognizes and honors young women between the ages of 14 and 17 who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts such as: fighting drugs, crime and violence; cleaning up the environment; and working to end discrimination and poverty. Volunteer actions that benefit women or girls are of particular interest. The winning recipient receives a cash award for herself as well as a donation for the charity of her choice.