Local chapters of Soroptimist International are encouraging eligible women to apply for its annual “Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards for Women.”

Women who are household primary wager earners, have dependents and who are enrolled in or accepted to a skills training or undergraduate degree program can apply. The deadline is Nov. 15.

The Oak Harbor Soroptimist chapter is presenting two $3,000 awards this year, said Sue Riney, who chairs the award and scholarship committee. The money doesn’t have to go directly toward tuition but can be applied toward education-related expenses or obstacles in their path, Riney said.

“It’s for women in need to continue their education,” she said. “It can be used for obstacles preventing her from doing that, such as if she needs to get her car fixed or pay for daycare.”

Eligible women must be the primary wage earner and have dependents, which could be children, parents or a spouse, Riney said.

Soroptimist International is an organization whose mission is to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. Soroptimist is a coined Latin word meaning “best for women.”

Its three chapters on Whidbey Island — Oak Harbor, Coupeville and South Whidbey — all support on-going Soroptimist’s programs, such as free health programs for low-income women — mammograms and Heartwise screening that checks for cholesterol and blood sugar. Doctor referrals are not needed for either program and are available at WhidbeyHealth Medical Center.

“Women Making a Difference Fundraiser” for the Coupeville Soroptimists chapter is 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 9, at Front Street Grill in Coupeville. Tickets are $75 for gourmet tapas paired with fine wine.

• For tickets and information on the Coupeville fundraiser, call Crystal at 206-790-1022 or Rita at 631-707-5980. For more information on the “Live Your Dream” awards:www.soroptimist.org/awards/apply.html