Appalachian Women’s Advocate and School Founder is National Finalist

There’s reason to celebrate in Kentucky – Jane Stephenson of Lexington has made it to the finalist round of AARP Create The Good’s “Win & Do Good” national volunteer story competition.

See Also: Find a Volunteer Opportunity

She is one of seven finalists selected from more than 1,800 contest participants, and has already won $5,000 for her preferred charity, the New Opportunity School for Women.

Online voting is open until Nov. 18. The contest’s grand prize winner, will be awarded an additional $10,000 for their charity of choice.

Stephenson was chosen for her volunteer story about the New Opportunity School for Women, a career and leadership development program for low-income women in the central Appalachian region. Stephenson founded the organization, which provides a free, three-week program to teach women basic skills to continue their education or get a job, including computer, math, interview and leadership skills, and more. They also provide basic health services, place participants in an internship and offer cultural events, among other support.

“Almost 700 women have graduated from our three-week residential program. A recent survey of the Kentucky grads indicated 79 percent are employed, in school, or both,” wrote Stephenson in her winning entry.

Voting in the Win & Do Good contest is open to the public. Finalist entries can be viewed online. Voting is open until Nov. 18, and you can vote as often as once a day.

You may also participate in the Win & Do Good volunteer match game for a chance to win two $25 gift cards – one for yourself and one for your charity of choice. See the official rules and play the match game online.

“This contest highlights just how many dedicated volunteers across the country – and right here in Kentucky – are finding meaningful ways to help their communities. We are proud to be in a position to recognize and reward their incredible work, and hope you’ll take a few minutes to check out all of the finalists’ stories and vote for the one that moves you most,” said Jim Kimbrough, AARP Kentucky State President.

Read about all the outstanding volunteers, get inspired and be sure to vote today.