For the Reporter

Soroptimist International of Auburn presented Auburn Mountainview High School senior Allina Lantagne with the Violet Richardson award Wednesday for her outstanding volunteer service to the Auburn community.

She received a monetary award and a donation to the Auburn Youth Council, where she volunteers much of her time.

Lantagne began volunteering with the Auburn Youth Council in the ninth grade as she wished to help families in Auburn and become more involved in her community.e

The youth council is a leadership and service learning program for Auburn-area middle and high school students that provides volunteers at local events and collaborates on ideas that benefit Auburn.

Lantagne has logged more than 155 volunteer hours assisting with community events, her favorite being the Holiday Tree of Giving.

College and a career in family law is next for Lantagne who said, “All of my volunteer experience is giving me the skills I need to interact with families.”

Named after the president of the first Soroptimist club, the Violet Richardson Award honors girls who are making a difference through volunteer service. Each year, Soroptimist clubs honor girls who donate their time and energy to causes that make the community and world a better place.

The program begins on the local level, with club recipients becoming eligible for additional awards at other levels of the organization. One winner is chosen to receive a finalist award, which includes a contribution of $2,500 to the charitable organization of the recipient’s choice.

About the Soroptimist International of Auburn

Soroptimist is an international volunteer organization for business and professional individuals who work to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world. Soroptimist International of Auburn was chartered in October, 1947.

The club sponsors a variety of community projects including:

Algona/Pacific After School Program; Auburn Senior Center; Auburn SymphonyOrchestra; Auburn Youth Resources; Camp Auburn; DAWN Kids Club; Domestic Violence Initiatives; Auburn Area Fire Medic Campaign; Girls State; Green River Community College Scholarships; Leadership Institute of South Puget Sound; Mary Olson Historical Farm; Shelters for Sisters; White River Valley Museum; WA Women’s Employment & Education; YMCA Camperships; YWCA Transitional Housing: Anita Vista

Those interested in becoming a member should email the club at info@siauburn.org.