CARLSBAD -- For the 27th year, the Oceanside-Carlsbad chapter of Soroptimist International honored women who, through their work or volunteer activities, have helped other women or advanced the status of women and children.

The awards were given June 20 at the Making a Difference for Women Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa. This year's event was also a fundraiser. Organizers hoped to raise $10,000. All of it will be put right back into the community for such organizations as the Vista Community Clinic, Meals-On-Wheels and Martin Luther King Scholarships, said Louann Gigante, chapter president.

This year, Karen Haynes, president of Cal State San Marcos, was given the Woman of Distinction Award for being a driving force in building an institution where people want to come to study, to work and to initiate lasting partnerships.

Deborah Lindholm, founder and chief executive officer of Foundation for Women, took home the Woman Helping Women Award for using her resources, talents and influence to help other women achieve their potential. Her foundation gives women a chance to start their own businesses and reach a higher standard of living.

The San Diego Chapter of Habitat for Humanity earned the Organization Advancing the Status of Women Award for being an organization that builds simple, decent and affordable homes for local families. Elizabeth Neubrand accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

The Planning Committee for the event included Colleen O'Harra, Anne Speraw, Michelle D'Elia, Trish Kydd, Donna Ronca, Michelle Davis, Karen Hoffman, BJ Witz, Katherine Mulderrig, Chari Goddard, Judy High, Lori Somers, Claudia Jean, Edith Jones, Lauri Mannheimer and Carolyn Wolf.

Businesses providing clothing for the fashion show were David's Bridal, Ensemble, Jockey for Women, Chico's, Soma, Kobo and Lemonchello's. Models were all members of the club.

Among those enjoying the event were Betsy Heightman, Oceanside Mayor Jim Wood, Danielle Soriano, Eileen Letts, June Williams, Dana Withall, Mary Erchul, Susan Gilbey, Lyon Kaplansky, Zona Murray, Cathy Carver, Terry Edwards, Judy Horton, Candi Robbin, Vickie Prosser, Lori Somers, Callie Stewart, Jim Mickelson, Ron and Sandy Thurlow, Michelle Freeborn, Louise Western, Bobbie Hass, Vicki Hurst, Karen Bond, Sylvia Van Doorn, Betty Breer, Adele Mcintosh, Diana Aaron, Lorna Stofer, Diane Scholfield, Barbara Mannino, Kim Khoo, Tam Hackman and Maureen Martin.