By Lisa Huard

STATELINE — A common celebration occurred throughout the world Tuesday. March 8 marked the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe and Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra marked the event by bestowing the Violet Richardson, Women’s Opportunity, and Ruby Awards to women in the South Shore community.

The Violet Richardson Award program began in 2000 as a way to recognize girls for their volunteer service to their communities. This program honors young women between the ages of 14 and 17 whose volunteer efforts include: helping other disadvantaged girls; fighting drugs, crime and violence; cleaning up the environment; and working to end discrimination and poverty. Violet Richardson Ward, was the first president of the first Soroptimist club and was committed to creating opportunities for girls and young women.

Four young women — Riana Cerceo, Haley Dressel, Allyson Marchus, and Alejandra Medina — were recognized Tuesday night.

Two inspiring women received recognition as they were received the Women’s Opportunity Award, which was first awarded in 1972. Tiffany Reid and Lisa Shafer inspired the room of guests at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe with the story of their past and more important, their plans for the future. To date $25 million has been disbursed to help tens of thousands of women achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families

The Soroptimist Ruby Award highlights women helping women. LeeAnne Stigers-Genasi was recognized with an award that honors the first federation president, Ruby Lee Minar. Stigers-Genasi’s has worked abroad to provide dentistry needs in Third World nations.

Lisa Huard is a member of Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra.