Founded in 1919 in Buffalo, New York, USA, Zonta takes its name from the Lakota Sioux Indian word meaning "honest and trustworthy."

Zonta International, through its Foundation, supports women's education and leadership offering several programs.  Read more about  these at our Zonta International Website. 

Zonta International’s dedication to creating opportunities for women globally dates back to 1923, to the relief efforts provided to 115,0000 orphan children and women in Smyrna, Turkey. In 1956, Zontians reached beyond the limits of their communities to assist Hungarian refugees. And since 1962, the International Service Fund has supported training, education, sanitation, agricultural and health, and micro-credit assistance to women in more than 20 countries, primarily through the agencies of the United Nations.

Happy 90th Birthday to Zonta!

From A History of Zonta International 1919-1999 -- “In the dynamic history of women's struggle toward equality, the founding of Zonta International in the United States on November 8, 1919 occupies a unique moment. Zonta's founding members were among the first generation of college educated women, as institutions of higher learning had opened their doors to female students only in the late 1880s. Zontians were of the first generation of North American women to vote, the franchise having been passed in the United States only a few months earlier. They were of the growing – though still comparatively small – coterie of white, middle-class women entering the workforce, the newly automated business office creating in its wake the need for a new kind of labor force.

The founders of Zonta embodied what scholars of US women's history have come to call the 'New Woman:' native-born and middle-class, this new breed of career-minded women in the early twentieth century worked against all social convention by entering the labor force not out of economic need but out of a desire to improve and enlarge their lives. And, yet, Zontians were more than simply representative. In these years, educated working women were still a minority; early Zontians, all of whom were business executives, were therefore of a very small elite. Educated themselves, the members of Zonta devoted themselves to providing opportunities to other women so that they, too, might rise through the professional ranks. Savvy as to their newly-won status as fully enfranchised United States Citizens, Zontians likewise became quickly occupied with improving the status of women worldwide.

Zonta's first officers designated the official colors, mahogany and gold, and the yellow rose – the symbol of friendship – was chosen as the official flower.

Amelia Earhart, a member of the Women's Party, would in later years choose Zonta as the only non-aviation organization to which she would belong.”

Local Zonta Clubs adopt projects tailored to Advance the Status of Women and children in their communities.  It is our sole mission.

Our Local Club

Is a not for profit corporation established April 24, 1948.  We received our Charter from Zonta International.  All members pledge to uphold the Objects of Zonta when they join the Club. 

The Objects

1. To improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health, and professional status of women at the global and local level through service and advocacy.
2. To work for the advancement of understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of executives in business and the professions.
3. To promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms
4. To be united internationally to foster high ethical standards, to implement service programs, and to provide mutual support and fellowship for members who serve their communities, their nations, and the world.

Who We Are

Membership in Zonta International and the Zonta Club of Montgomery is by invitation only. We are a classified international service organization dedicated to advancing the status of women locally and globally. Membership is a responsibility that requires time, resources, and financial commitments.

Membership Eligibility and Classification

Membership is open to executives or professionals in recognized business, or professional occupations. A candidate must pledge to support the objectives of Zonta. Member classification is based on occupations and the Zonta classification system utilizing the International Standard Classification of Occupations.

Our Open Invitation

We invite you to attend and participate in one or more of our meetings, fund raisers, or service activities. This will allow you to get to know our dynamic members and assess your interest and eligibility in Zonta. The better you get to know us (and we get to know you) the better you can assess if Zonta is a best fit for you.

Member Responsibilities

As a member, you are responsible for regularly attending club and relevant committee meetings. You must pay all dues, fees, and assessments promptly. You will be called upon to serve in leadership roles and give your time, talent, and enthusiasm to the organization. You are also responsible for identifying and recommending prospective new members. As time and resources allow, you are encouraged to attend area, district, and international meetings, workshops, conferences, and conventions. We are an active service organization in our area and are committed to making a difference in the status of women in our global community.

Membership Process

The membership process is very straightforward. First, the membership committee reviews your application and determines if you meet the eligibility requirements.  Second, the committee forwards the application for review and approval of the board of directors. If no board member protests or questions your eligibility, you will be mailed a letter inviting you to join our club.

Membership Application

The membership form is specific to our club. You will be provided a form on your first visit to our club.  Please return it to our Membership Chair.

If you have any questions about Zonta, please feel free to contact us with an email. We are dedicated to ensuring your membership in Zonta is a mutually rewarding experience both now and in the future.