Soroptimist International of South Whidbey Island is seeking applicants for its Violet Richardson Award and a separate grant program aimed at assisting women with education funding.

The Violet Richardson Award is a recognition program for young women between the ages of 14 and 17 who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts.

The Violet Richardson Award program begins at the local club level, where a winning recipient receives $500 plus another $500 for the charity she supports. She becomes eligible for one of 28 $1,000 awards, which also results in an equal match to their charity. Finally, one finalist will be chosen for an additional award, which will include a contribution of $2,500 to her volunteer organization of choice.

The Soroptimists are also now accepting applications for women who are seeking financial assistance to go back to school.

Eligible applicants must serve as the primary wage-earners for their families. The award can be used for tuition, books, childcare, carfare or any other education-related expense.

The South Whidbey Club will provide a $1,000 cash grant to its award recipient, who will then advance to the Soroptimist Northwestern Region level, where one person will receive $5,000. The program culminates with three finalists, each of whom will receive $10,000 awards.

The deadline for the both the grant program and the Violet Richardson Award is Dec. 1.

To apply for either program, visit the organization’s website, www.sisouthwhidbeyisland.org or contact Pam Grant at 360-914-0854.