For two Pahrump women, last year’s Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women from Soroptimist International of Pahrump Valley meant more than just financial relief—it represented hope, encouragement, and a reminder that their community believes in them.
Both Stephanie Lopez and Angela Pemberton were among five local recipients of the 2024 awards, which are given annually to women who are the primary wage earners for their families while pursuing education or training to improve their lives. Stephanie received a $500 award, while Angela received $1,500.
Stephanie, a nursing student at Great Basin College, said she learned about the program through a friend, Linda Fitzgibbons, just as she was starting her coursework. “I was looking for scholarships, and it was perfect timing to learn about it and apply,” she said. “It meant so much because it reminded me that people in the community care about students and want to see us succeed.”
She used her award to cover tuition, books, and gas for her clinical rotations—some of which required travel as far as Boulder City. “Being in school every day means I can’t work as much as I’d like, so this extra help was a huge blessing,” she explained. Now in her third semester, Stephanie expects to graduate in May and hopes to begin a career in emergency nursing. “It’s where I see myself making the biggest difference,” she said.
For Angela, the award came at a time when she was balancing school and single motherhood. “When I was reading about the Live Your Dream Award, it just checked all the boxes—single mom, going back to school—it felt like it was written for me,” she said.
The application process, she recalled, was surprisingly warm and personal. “Everybody was so supportive and transparent,” she said. “You could feel the encouragement. It wasn’t just about the money; it was about knowing someone believed in you.”
Angela used her $1,500 award to help with childcare and transportation. “I was able to purchase a car and get help with childcare while I was in school,” she said. “It just felt like a weight was lifted.”
Currently pursuing a degree in mental health counseling, Angela said the award’s impact went beyond finances—it gave her momentum to keep moving forward. “It changed my life,” she said. “It reminded me that there’s support out there, and it’s okay to ask for help.”
Her advice to other women thinking about applying? “Start with the Live Your Dream Award,” she said. “Don’t get discouraged. Keep looking for resources and stay focused, even when things get hard. Every step brings you closer to your goal.”
The Live Your Dream Awards are unique because recipients can use the funds for more than just tuition. The money can go toward childcare, transportation, technology, or any expense that helps women overcome barriers to completing their education. “We don’t call it a scholarship—we call it an award,” said local chairperson Candace Hunt. “We trust women to know what they need most.”
Applications for this year’s Live Your Dream Awards are now open through November 15 at www.liveyourdream.org or by contacting Candace Hunt at 415-314-7040. Hunt said the program’s goal is simple: to empower women through education and financial stability. “When women have independence and opportunity, they have the freedom to make choices for themselves and their children,” she said.
Last year, the Pahrump Valley club awarded a total of $6,000 to five women. For both Angela and Stephanie, the experience has been transformative—and both say they’re deeply grateful for the support. “It wasn’t just financial,” Angela said. “It was emotional and motivational.” Stephanie agreed, adding, “It gave me a sense of relief and strength to keep going.”
Their stories serve as powerful reminders that help is out there—and that one application could be the first step toward a new beginning.
Women who are heads of household and pursuing education or training are encouraged to apply before November 15 at www.liveyourdream.org or reach out to Candace Hunt at 415-314-7040 for more information.
