Miracles and Magic: A Special Thank You from Award Recipients
Step into the holiday season and discover the magic of dreams fulfilled as we share heartfelt messages of thanks from incredible women from across the globe who have found new hope thanks to Soroptimist members and the Live Your Dream Awards!
These women’s emotional words show how far a little generosity can go to help struggling women and their families. At the same time, they remind us that the true impact of the Live Your Dream Awards goes beyond the grant itself—it’s how it grants women courage, hope, and self-confidence that changes their lives forever.
Join us in celebrating the lives changed and dreams come true! Get ready for a feast of inspiration and celebration—and see how much your support matters.
Cheryl – 2021 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Guam (Founder Region)
“Before applying for the Live Your Dream Awards, I was a victim of domestic abuse and became a single mom of 3 kids. As a result of that and Covid, I also lost my job. But despite those circumstances, I continued to take classes and fought to pursue my education… I am so grateful for the opportunity that this award has provided. It offered hope and prevented me from having to drop out of school. Thank you to all the sponsors who make these dreams possible for all those individuals who are fighting for a better life.”
Miyako – 2019 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Oyama (Japan Higashi)
「頑張れば花開く。あの時は色々親切にしてくださりありがとうございました。本当に感謝しています。」
Translation: “If you work hard, you will blossom. Thank you very much for all the kindness you showed me at that time. I really appreciate it.”
Ashley – 2020 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Truckee Meadows, NV (Sierra Nevada Region)
“I couldn’t stop thinking how lucky I was and how these women must’ve saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself at the time. Again, thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. I am honored and proud and hope one day I can give back to others in the way you have all given back to me.”
Roxana – 2020 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Dayton, OH (Midwestern Region)
“It gave me hope. Hope that something is there for me. Hope that I am not alone. And it came when I truly needed a sign—a sign of appreciation. It was the first award of my life. I will never forget it! Thank you!”
Mireya – 2019 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Huntington Beach, CA (Desert Coast Region)
“I wish I could put [together] a video synopsis of the moments that changed our lives because of your help. I wish you could have seen my children's faces filled with joy and the nights I would sleep well knowing that all I had to worry about was homework. The days I was so super excited over accomplishments that I knew I couldn't have done without your support. THANK YOU!!!”
Jieli – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Kaohsiung Bayu (Taiwan Region)
“首先 要感謝國際蘭馨會的肯定和支持
讓我得到實現妳的夢想獎台灣區第二名
進而實現讀書的心願
過去的苦難和艱辛 雖然讓我的人生飽嚐折磨
也許我的起步晚了 但只要勇敢的跨出這一步
只要願意努力 重頭開始 就不算晚”
Translation: “I would like to thank Soroptimist for its affirmation and support, which allowed me to receive a Live Your Dream Award in Taiwan and realize my dream of studying. Although past sufferings and hardships have made my life difficult, it is not too late as long as I am brave enough to take this step and willing to work hard and start over.”
Elena A. – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/North County San Diego, CA (Desert Coast Region)
“I was genuinely thrilled to discover that opportunities like these exist for women in circumstances similar to mine. It's incredibly empowering and fills me with hope that my daughter, too, will have a bright academic future. As a first-generation college graduate, receiving this additional support and opportunity feels immensely rewarding and encouraging.”
Crystal T. – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Seaford, DE (North Atlantic Region)
“Receiving this award has improved the life of my family and I tremendously. I want to say thank you to everyone who has assisted me and every other recipient of the Live Your Dream Awards. Without you, our dreams, goals, and aspirations would not feel reachable.”
Nayeli M. – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Panama-Pacifico (Mexico/Centroamerica Region)
“Solo agradecerles por la gran ayuda que brindan a mujeres que sueñan, pero que muchas veces esos sueños se ven obstaculizados por situaciones de la vida. Ese granito que aportan definitivamente cambia la vida de muchas mujeres, y ayudan a que ese sueño de estudiar una carrera y brindar apoyo a su familia se cumpla.”
Translation: “I just want to thank you for the support you provide to women who dream, but whose dreams are often hindered by life situations. That little bit you contribute definitely changes the lives of many women and helps them to fulfill their dream of studying a career and providing support for their family.”
Kiah – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Madera, CA (Sierra Pacific Region)
“As a former foster youth, I rarely got any positive feedback from those around me. Receiving this award was hearing that someone was proud of me, which did far more than the money could. It kept me going on days I felt like giving up.”
Jeleen – 2022 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SI/Mabini (Philippines Region)
“I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all the donors who have played a crucial role in making this award possible. You are a beacon of hope and positivity, reminding us all of the potential for positive change when individuals come together to support meaningful initiatives.”
Lisa G. – 2021 Live Your Dream Awards recipient, SIAHQ
“I've lived a life with hardly any wins, and it just felt so good to finally win something. It boosted my confidence and showed my children that hard work and trying really does pay off… To each and every donor, your contributions are genuinely making dreams come true.”
Does your club have a Live Your Dream Awards recipient with an inspiring story to share? Have her fill out the “Share Your Story” form!
Your continued support will help us build a brighter future for women like those whose words you’ve just read. You can ignite a spark of hope that radiates far beyond the holiday season by making a special end-of-year donation!
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