History

In 1919 the first Zonta club was formed in Buffalo, New York. The objective was to create a strong network of women working in executive positions who would work together to advance the status of women worldwide. These members were among the first generation of women in the United States to vote, and were part of a growing trend of women entering the workforce outside the home.

Zonta is a word derived from the Lakhota (Teton Dakota) language of the Native American Sioux people. It means honest and trustworthy, an integral component of the club principles. The word's meaning was incorporated into the Zonta emblem. Mahogany and gold were selected as the club's colors, and the emblem is the yellow rose.

Zonta International was organized when the first European club was founded in Vienna, Austria in 1930. In September of 1930, the club's world headquarters were incorporated in Illinois, where they remain to this day. Today there are approximately 35,000 members in 1,200 clubs worldwide.

The Traverse City chapter of Zonta was chartered in 1956. Over the years, Zonta has participated in many area service projects. Our club is growing and now boasts nearly 100 members. The club has three main fundraisers each year, the annual Z-Tee Golf Outing in June, the Fashion Show in October and the Festival of Trees in November. (Click here for more details on our events.) The funds raised by our members are reinvested in our local community through grants and scholarships. (Click here for more details on our grant programs.) This amounts to over $30,000 each year reinvested locally in the women and children of the Grand Traverse area! (Click here for more details on how to get involved!)

The Zonta Club of Traverse City would like to thank all of our generous sponsors and the other good people who help us in our efforts. We believe in hands-on service and the difference opportunity and education can make in improving lives.