CalWORKs Students Honored at Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards Breakfast

Feb 28, 2025
Moreno Valley College
I group of four students accept their scholarship awards

Several CalWORKs students from Moreno Valley College were honored at the Soroptimist International of Moreno Valley’s Live Your Dream Awards breakfast on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at Brandon’s Diner. The event recognized the achievements of women working to improve their education, skills, and employment prospects.

The 2025 Live Your Dream Award winners are:

  • Anna Choyce
  • Noelle Brezinki
  • Trina Abuelhaj
  • Vanessa Jimenez
  • Veronica Zaragoza
  • Kia Johnson

The Live Your Dream Awards program provides financial assistance to women who are the primary breadwinners for their families and are enrolled in or accepted to an undergraduate degree or vocational program. The awards aim to help women overcome financial barriers and pursue higher education.

Veronica Zaragoza, a student and substitute counseling clerk for the CalWORKs/Workforce Preparation program, was among this year's recipients. Zaragoza, a single mother of six, spoke about what the award means to her.

"Winning the Soroptimist Award as a single mother of six is not just a personal victory—it’s a testament to resilience, strength, and the unwavering love that fuels every challenge," Zaragoza said. "This award is not just for me, but for every mother who dares to dream, persevere, and rise above."

The Soroptimist International Live Your Dream Awards program distributes over $2.9 million annually in education awards to more than 2,000 women globally. Many recipients have overcome difficult circumstances, including domestic violence, trafficking, and sexual assault. The awards help cover costs like tuition, childcare, books, and transportation.

The Live Your Dream program has proven to be life-changing, with 86% of recipients completing their education and improving their standard of living. Additionally, 74% of those who completed their degrees or certifications secured higher-paying employment, and 93% reported a boost in self-esteem.

For more information about the Live Your Dream Awards, visit Soroptimist’s website.

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