Soroptimist International of Indian Rock Inc., (SIIR) an organization dedicated to the empowerment of women and girls, presented its annual community service awards at its March dinner meeting at Spring Mill Country Club, recognizing local individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the well-being of women and girls.
The annual Making a Difference for Women Awards are determined by a group of the organization’s past presidents, based on recommendations made by members of this local Soroptimist chapter. Eager to recognize the work of those who are bettering the lives of women and girls, SIIR has been presenting these awards for nearly four decades.
The first award of the evening was presented to Diakon Child, Family and Community Ministries for its Family Reunification/Preservation Program, which encompasses not only Bucks County but also Delaware, Northampton, and Lehigh counties.
As the recipient of the Organization Advancing the Status of Women Award, Diakon – represented by Fayrouz Azer – was recognized for its work in providing in-home services to maintain youth in their original homes, which complements their mission to assure permanency for all youth who come through their various programs, whether it involves maintaining the youth at home, kinship placement, or adoption. Azer has held the position of executive director of the program since 2021 after serving as supervisor of the program in Bucks County until 2018 when she was promoted to director of permanency.
The evening’s second honor – the Women Helping Women Award – was bestowed upon Kristin Chapin, associate director of the YWCA of Bucks County. Chapin, and past recipients of this award, are lauded as those who use their positions, influence and authority to open broader avenues of opportunity for women, working to eliminate economic, legal, social or political discrimination.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.