Volunteers & Teachers recognized by Loomis Soroptimist

Loomis, Calif.- Soroptimist International of Loomis Basin (SILB) recently presented community awards on at the Train Depot in Downtown Loomis.

The club’s fundraising efforts, such as the upcoming Tostada Bingo on March 22, enable the club to fund these awards. Soroptimist supports women and children locally and throughout the world. 

Violet Richardson Award

Anna von Wendorff, who volunteers for A Touch of Understanding (ATOU), received the Violet Richardson Award that recognizes young women who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts. ATOU provides disability awareness programs to over 6000 Sacramento area students each year to help them understand the challenges associated with disabilities.

 Von Wendorff explained that she has been a leader with the ATOU Youth FORCE – Friends Offering Respect and Creating Empowerment – for three years and currently serves as president. She plans, promotes and mentors younger volunteers to produce monthly events that are fully inclusive and accessible. “I have been able to experience not only the hard work involved with a nonprofit and its valuable rewards,” said von Wendorff, “but also the careful decisions that must be made at every level.” 

Women’s Opportunity Award

Marissa Glen of Auburn was selected to receive the Women’s Opportunity Award. This scholarship aids women who support their families and need additional training to upgrade their employability.

 Glen indicated that she discovered her passion for food when she previously cooked for a senior community. “My passion is pleasing people through food,” said Glen. “I want to pursue dietetics as a career. I love the analytical part of a tailor made diet.” She attends Sierra College and plans to transfer to California State University Sacramento. 

Ruby Award

Ann Heimberg was recognized for her contributions as volunteer for Stand Up Place, formerly PEACE for families. The Ruby Award for Women Helping Women is given to those who improve the lives of other women or girls through their professional or personal activities.

 After completing Crisis Intervention Training, Heimberg began teaching a cooking class at a safe house. Then she joined the Sexual Assault Response Team and been on call more than 840 hours in just five months, explained Amber Whitley, Stand Up Place Volunteer Coordinator.

 “Our work involves a high degree of trauma, heighten emotional sates and unpredictability,” said Whitley. “Ann has served our survivors with compassion and taken on the challenges of the work with grace, perseverance and a positive attitude.” 

Special Recognition

Fred & Acsa Hitchen received a grant to continue their work at the Senior L.I.F.E. Center of Loomis, a place where adults over 55 years of age enjoy social and educational activities as well as lunch contributed by local businesses and organizations. Soroptimist International Loomis Basin helped establish the center in 1978 and has supported the program since its inception. 

Teacher Grants

SILB provides small grants to help fund teachers’ long-term projects that will benefit numerous classes over time. 

Julie Smith and Shiloh Rebozzi from Franklin School; Anne Marie Nielsen with H. Clarke Powers School; Kathy Lowry who teaches at the Ophir STEAM Academy; Cindy Zenovic and Kelsie Dales of Placer Elementary; and Kristen Strong and Melissa McCormick from Loomis Grammer all received grants to support classroom programs.