Raleigh Soroptimists Honor Outstanding Club Member

Jan. 23, 2013 - PRLog -- Raleigh resident and outstanding volunteer, Sarita Harkness, was recently honored with Soroptimist International of Raleigh, NC’s President’s Award for her exemplary commitment to Soroptimist, including her numerous and significant contributions to club service projects and operations. The President’s Award, introduced in 2011, is Soroptimist International of Raleigh’s most prestigious member recognition.  

In addition to her role as club Vice President, Harkness’ accomplishments include active roles in the Economic Well-Being and Membership committees. As the club representative at a Raleigh Chamber Meeting, she established a ground-breaking relationship with the new Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy and is helping to create the plan for Raleigh Soroptimists’ involvement with the teen girls at the Academy.

Harkness also planned and coordinated a successful Mother’s Day project with the Peach Road Park Community Program, as well as coordinated the purchase and presentation of a large flat-screen television to that community.

Her role on Membership Committee included initiating programs and helping to coordinate events for prospective members. Harkness has also played an active role in fundraisers including the Triangle Women of Distinction Awards Event and the Raleigh Stop Child Trafficking Now Walk.

Soroptimist Raleigh President Terri Craig states, “As a 35-year member, Sarita is the epitome of Soroptimist, with a heart for service and strong commitment and dedication to our mission.  She is always positive, always smiling, and someone we all can count on. Sarita truly demonstrates the ideals of Soroptimist: the sincerity of friendship, the joy of achievement, the dignity of service.”

Harkness was presented with a citation and a handcrafted porcelain pendant with the Soroptimist emblem. Harkness states “Having discovered Soroptimist so many years ago as a young wife and mother, I am so thankful to this organization for giving me the opportunity to serve my community and the world through its programs to improve the lives of women and girls.”

For more information about Soroptimist International of Raleigh, NC, including membership requirements, email contactus@soroptimistraleigh.org.