Submitted by Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor.

Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor accepting applications for three Education Awards for San Juan County Women in December.

Soroptimist International of Friday Harbor has given several education awards to women for education beyond high school throughout our history. Soroptimist has been fortunate to be able to continue to fund these awards despite some years when we could not fundraise in person. We thank our donors who have supported our efforts to improve women’s lives through education.

These awards are not scholarships, paid directly to a college, but can be used for child care, transportation, books, supplies or other resources that will enable a woman to advance her education, skills and employment prospects.

The goal this year is to offer multiple awards if there are more than one exceptional candidate. To that end, Soroptimist has nearly doubled its budget for this fiscal year.

For those who would like to be a judge for these awards, please visit www.sifri.org.

Educational Opportunity Award

This award can be used for academic or vocational education in an accredited program. Women studying an accredited online program are also eligible.

The club will award $2,500 to the winner(s).

Applications will be accepted beginning Dec. 1. Deadline is Feb. 1.

Applicant must be enrolled, or accepted to, a college, vocational program, certification program or GED program.

Applicant must demonstrate financial need.

Applicant may have a previous bachelor’s degree.

Trades Award, new this year!

Have you thought of finding a job that involves your head and your hands? Or a job that women often don’t consider?

The island community has a shortage of skilled workers in the Trades. Our club raised funds to help a woman learn job skills that pay well and are in high demand in our community. This award is designed to serve the applicant and our community as well. The club will award $3,500 to the winner.

Applicants must pursue vocational training or certification in one of the following trades: electrical, plumbing, mechanical, marine maintenance and welding.

If you want to learn a different skill, you can apply for the Educational Opportunity Award or Live Your Dream Award.

Applications will be accepted beginning Dec. 1. Application deadline is Feb. 1.

Applicant must have graduated from high school or have a GED.

Applicant must be enrolled, or accepted to, a vocational program or certification program in the five trades listed above. Applicant must demonstrate financial need.

Fellowship Award

The award is for women who will attend graduate school.

The club will award $4,000 to the winner. Applications will be accepted beginning Dec. 1. The deadline is Feb. 1. Applicant must be enrolled, or accepted to, an accredited graduate school. Applicant must demonstrate financial need.