A teen’s life is busy: dealing with the pressures of “growing up,” going to school, devoting many hours to homework, and often working a part-time job. Despite these demands, young women in Chowchilla are setting time aside for volunteering—to make a difference in their community. One such inspiring volunteer is Amelia Upton. She has worked hard to change the lives of many of her young peers.

On March 14th, Soroptimist International of Chowchilla presented Amelia Upton with its Violet Richardson Award, which honors young women for volunteer action. Upton, a 14 year old Wilson Middle School 8th Grader received a $50 cash award at the awards ceremony. A $50 cash award was also given to the Chowchilla Youth Soccer League in Amelia’s name. Amelia was accompanied by her mother, Joanne Upton, and her friend, Serina Ulrick.

Joanne Upton, Violet Richardson Winner Amelia Upton, President Sheila Noel, and Serina Ulrick

Amelia is an active volunteer with the Chowchilla Youth Soccer League. She has volunteered as an assistant coach for the past two years. She also helps with fundraising and registration. Amelia was successful in her efforts, and for her dedication and perseverance, Chowchilla Soroptimist awarded her with the Violet Richardson Award. The program recognizes young women who make the community and the world a better place through volunteer efforts such as fighting drugs, crime and violence; cleaning up the environment; and working to end discrimination and poverty. Volunteer actions that benefit women and girls are particularly valued.

Soroptimist International of Chowchilla is one of about 1,500 clubs that make up Soroptimist International of the Americas, an international volunteer service organization for business and professional women whose mission is to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.

Amelia will now advance to the Soroptimist Sierra Pacific Region award level, to compete for a $1,000 award, which will be matched with a $1,000 contribution to the recipient’s volunteer organization. Should she be recognized at that level, Amelia will then be considered for the finalist award, which is a $2,500 contribution to the recipient’s volunteer organization.

Amelia Upton has been lauded by her schoolmates, teachers, and family alike for her many contributions to our community. These days we often heart negative stories about young people. I think the readers of the Chowchilla News would find Amelia’s story to be a refreshing change of pace.

Founded in 1953, Soroptimist International of Chowchilla is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas. Chowchilla members join with almost 95,000 Soroptimists in about 120 countries and territories to contribute time ands financial support to community-based projects benefiting women.

For more information about how Soroptimist International of Chowchilla improves the lives of women and girls, contact club President Sheila Noel at (559 )665-5199.