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A Local Legacy
Press release,
August, 2007.
Not long ago, Soroptimist International of Montebello
announced its newest endeavor, the Elaine Kirchner Live Your Dream
Scholarship.
On Friday, September 21, at 6:00 p.m. at the
Quiet Cannon in Montebello, Montebello Soroptimist will have the privilege
and honor of hosting a wonderful gala in celebration of Elaine’s 90th
birthday.
Proceeds from the event will fund the "Live
Your Dream" scholarships which will change young women’s lives for
generations to come. Soroptimimst International of the America’s new Live
Your Dream campaign focuses on raising awareness about the unique challenges
women face and the ways in which they can be supported in their quest to
live their dreams.
“Elaine Kirchner is no stranger to challenge
and serves as the perfect role model to women everywhere,” states Ana
Marie LeNoue, Soroptimist president.
Elaine’s commitment to service goes way back.
In 1958, Elaine became the first woman councilmember in Montebello.
While on the city council, she was appointed the first woman delegate
to the Japan-American Conference of Mayors and became president of the
Montebello Chamber of Commerce President.
Her hard work resulted in the creation of the
Montebello Sister City with Ashiya, Japan.
Among her firsts, Elaine also established the first travel agency in
Montebello in 1961, where she served as president for thirty-one years.
Elaine remains involved with many
organizations, often serving as a board member or trustee, including the
Beverly Hospital Foundation, Beverly Hospital Guild, Montebello Women’s
Club, Montebello-Commerce YMCA, and Jewel Bishop Starkey Memorial Art Fund
Foundation.
Elaine’s active membership with Soroptimist
started in 1962 and continues today. She
serves as parliamentarian, friend, and mentor to the business professionals
who make up Soroptimist International of Montebello and who strive to make a
positive difference in the lives of women and children in Montebello and
around the world.
Please contact Veronica Diaz, committee chair, (323) 887-4581, for
more information regarding the birthday gala or mail correspondence to
Montebello Soroptimist, P.O. Box 851, Montebello, CA 90640. |