Soroptimist International of Oak Harbor is accepting applications for three financial aid awards.

The Women’s Opportunity Award Program supports women who are entering or re-entering the workforce. The $1,000 awards assists in obtaining the education and skills training needed to improve employment status. This award gives women heads of household, who provide the primary source of financial support for their families, the opportunity to achieve their career goals. These awards are for women who are attending, or have been accepted to, a vocational/skills training program, or an undergraduate degree program.

Recipients may use the award for any expenses related to their educational pursuits including tuition and books, housing, child care and transportation. Local winners become eligible to receive region-level awards. Each year, 29 geographic regions throughout North, Central and South America, and Asia each give a first and second place award. The first place award winner from each region becomes eligible to receive one of three $10,000 finalist awards. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, and cannot have already earned an undergraduate degree. Application deadline is Dec. 15; applications may be picked up at CADA, Skagit Valley College, DSHS, Oak Harbor Library and Opportunity Council.

The Violet Richardson Award recognizes and honors young women ages 14-17 who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts. Volunteer actions that benefit women or girls are of particular interest. The local award amount is $1,250 with $250 going to the winner’s charity of choice. The remaining $1,000 is given to the winner. Applications are at Oak Harbor High School. Deadline is Dec.1.

The third available award is the Vo-Tech Award in the amount of $750. These awards are given to graduating seniors or students enrolled or enrolling in a non-degree program, a program leading to a certificate or license. Such programs are normally found in vocational technical schools or a two-year community college. The award is to be used for tuition or needed supplies. Applicants must show need. Applications may be picked up at the Oak Harbor High School. Deadline for applications is Dec. 15.

Call Tamra Sipes (360) 202-0025.