MARY BALDASANO / Special to the PVT Sarah Walker, left, District 1 director, congratulates award nominees Nishelle Robbins, Adaven Scronce, Karen Daun, Melissa Monge, and Danielle Osmun. Advertisement

Soroptomist International of Pahrump Valley (SIPV) held its annual membership induction and awards presentation event Feb. 5 at the Charleston Peak RV Park Clubhouse.

This event recognizes and welcomes new members who have joined during last quarter and recognizes young women in the community for their contributions as volunteers.

Chairwoman of the awards committee, Mary Balloqui, introduced guests by stating the purpose and mission of the organization as well as its objectives:

"The advancement of the status of women, high ethical standards, human rights and equality for all, development and peace. We are committed to service to local, national and international communities, and active participation in decision-making at all levels of society."

Those competing for the Violet Richardson (founder of the organization) honor were Adaven Scronce, Karen Daun, Nishelle Robbins, Danielle Osmun and Melissa Monge. Robbins, who attends Pahrump Valley High School as a senior, came out on top.

"This is awesome," she said. "I'm happy the money is going to the Cancer Association."

Her mother, Cathie, said she was "shocked but very happy."

Robbins plans to attend the University of Nevada, Reno, majoring in journalism.

Other recognitions included Melissa Monge, who is home schooled as a Pathways student and was selected to represent SIPV in the district competition for the Violet Richardson award at a banquet in Las Vegas at a later date.

Monge stated "I was very nervous but excited. It's great. Go for Soroptomist, it's a great experience and great for the community. You meet amazing people."

Each girl was presented by members of the volunteer organization they represented. The winner's money award will be donated to that charity.

B.J. Hetrick-Irwin was awarded the "Making a Difference for Women" award for her development of the Silver Tappers and Ms. Senior Golden Years competition.

She was also recognized for possibly saving the lives of women who seemed to have lost their purpose in life.

Winner of the Women's Opportunity Award was Marietta Butler of Las Vegas, a mother who attends school to better herself, and increase her potential for finding a good job.

The evening also recognized the five new members to the organization: Sally Elliott, Stephanie Scaturro, Norma McAdam, Roxanne Blum and Donna Lee Laduke.Sarah Walker, District 1 director, commented that she's "thrilled at the growth."

In only two years the SIPV has reached a total of 37 members.

Other topics discussed by the group included the collection of bears and blankets for underprivileged children. Over 140 children were served last year. The SIPV garage sale will be held April 19 in the parking lot of CC's Beauty Zone.

However, the largest participation will be in the war against human trafficking (particularly women). Walker said, "We have been invited to be members of the Nevada Task Force at the Las Vegas District Committee.

If you would like to recommend a young woman volunteer for next year's award, contact Mary Balloqui at 702-289-0133. If you would like to join SIPV, contact Tonya Brum at 775-209-3896. Claudette Crooks announced the development of an "S" Club which will have members in the 11th and 12th grades. Contact her at 775-537-1717 if interested.