Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe and Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra are sponsoring the Violet Richardson Award program, which was created in 2000 as a way to recognize girls for their volunteer service to their communities.

The program honors young women between the ages of 14 and 17 whose volunteer efforts include helping other disadvantaged girls; fighting drugs, crime, or violence; cleaning up the environment; or working to end discrimination and poverty. Volunteer actions that benefit women and girls are particularly valued.

The program is named after Violet Richardson, the first president of the first Soroptimist club that was established in 1921. Richardsn was committed to creating opportunities for girls and young women through her affiliations with Soroptimist, the Girl Scout Council and the American Association of University Women. Her passion for community service, particularly as it affected women and girls, has been an inspiration to Soroptimist International throughout the years.

If you know of a young woman who deserves recognition for her volunteer service, let her know she can find an application for this award at El Dorado and Douglas County libraries, South Tahoe Middle or Whittell High schools, Soroptimist websites: www.Sislt.org or www.Sitahoesierra.org or call (530) 541.2844 for any additional information.

Applications from young women are due Dec. 1.