Area II Connecticut, Central MA and Western MA

A Message from the Director, Debbie Wood:

After meeting in August with our Governor Mary Ann Rubis and District 1 Officers I can assure you that District 1 is in good hands for the next biennium.  To assure the best possible communication between  Zonta International/District I and your clubs I would like to request that I am included in your newsletter E Mail list to receive it as your Area II Director.   District I Officers and District I webmaster, Mary Knight  should also receive a copy.  If your club does not have a newsletter & your newsletter does not include meeting Minutes, please  assure that  copies of all Board and Club meeting Minutes are sent to me.  As you all convene this fall it is important to identify all committees and chair persons as soon as possible so that your clubs can begin discussing the business at hand.  Governor Mary Ann Rubis has asked for the names of committee chairmen so that they can benefit from information the District Committee Chairmen share to help implement some of the committee goals.

I am available to serve as your liaison between the 5 clubs in Area II and the District Board.  I would hope to visit each club and would appreciate notification of your meeting dates, times and locations so that I can begin making plans.  I would also like to be kept abreast of all service and fundraising events and activities so I  can share this information with the Distict Board and other clubs in Area II.  I am also available to hear of any concerns or issues that need attention or hold a special challenge for your club.

We are all aware of the challenge clubs face in both recruitment and retention of members and this will be a prime focus for the next biennium.  It is hoped that collectively we can attract new members and support existing ones so that we can experience growth and maintain vitality to continue the important work that Zonta offers both the local community and worldwide.

I hope that all Club Presidents have received their Call to Conference and have noted the steps to register, elect a delegate or designate a proxy and will respond well before the Sept. 20th initial deadline for Early Registration.  The conference is an excellent opportunity for newcomers and all members to learn more about how the Zonta International, District, and Local Club pieces all come together.

I look forward to hearing from all Club Presidents in the near future.  For your convenience I can be reached through this website and Club Presidents have my direct phone numbers.

Debbie Wood
District One Area II Director

What is Zonta?
Zonta International is a worldwide organization of executives in business and the professions working together to advance the status of women.

What are some of the Zonta International service projects?

Zonta International supports and administrates several different international service projects and/or programs Each biennium Zonta International sponsors international programs in association with agencies of the United Nations that work to advance the status of women. Most of the programs are in developing nations and are selected by the Zonta International Board and approved by the Zonta International membership. To learn more about Zonta International's International Service Projects for the current and past bienniums visit the Zonta International Web Site - the link is at the top of the page.

Zonta International also administers several international scholarship programs including: the Amelia Earhart Fellowship Program which provides post-graduate fellowships to women in the fields of aeronautics and aeronautical engineering; the Jane M. Klausman Scholarship Program which provides college scholarships to women in business; and the Young Women in Public Affairs which offers recognition and scholarships on the district and international level for outstanding young women who are making a difference in their world through service.

In addition many Zonta clubs sponsor Z and Golden Z Club Programs that provide mentoring and support for young high school and college aged women. Additional information regarding these and other Zonta International Programs can be found on the Zonta International web site at www.zonta.org.

Am I eligible for Zonta membership?
Membership is Zonta International is by club invitation to individuals working in a decision-making capacity at least 50% of a normal workweek.


How much time does Zonta membership take?
Zonta clubs are service clubs and each club votes on local service projects and fund raising activities. Zonta members are asked to attend monthly club and committee meetings, participate in club projects. In addition opportunities exist to attend one-day annual workshops, a two-day biannual conference or seminar and a week long biannual international convention.


How do I find out more? Area II Brochure
Check out the nearest, most convenient club - the location and club meeting information is included.  Also, check out the history of the club and the local service projects members have taken on.  Explore the newsletter and/or info about coming events.  See if any of the board members are people you already know.  Speak with the Contact person listed and ask to attend a meeting.  Network with the members and see if this might be a good fit.