Soroptimist International of West Maui provides opportunities for women to change their lives.

The group currently seeks applicants for its annual Women of Opportunity Award.

This award program assists women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families by giving them the resources they need to improve their education, skills and employment prospects.

Recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education, such as books, childcare, tuition and transportation.

In addition to being their family’s primary financial support, eligible women must be enrolled in or accepted to a vocational/skills training or undergraduate degree program.

Financial need is another important factor.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 15, 2013. For applications and additional information, contact Lisa Nelson at 667-2786 or Lisa.nelson@pleasant.net, or Mihaela Stoops at 357-4000 or mihaela_stoops@hotmail.com.

Each year, about $1.6 million is disbursed through this award-winning program.

Soroptimists, a 501(c)(3) organization that relies on charitable donations to support its programs, also powers LiveYourDream.org – an online community offering volunteer opportunities in support of women and girls.

Locally, Soroptimist International of West Maui works to improve the lives of girls and women in the Maui community through such programs as the annual Lahainaluna High School Scholarship and by supporting various local charities.

If you need some help to achieve your education and career goals, apply for the Women of Opportunity Award.