Service is at the center of Zonta’s mission and work. Zontians give generously of their time, talent and financial resources to support our local communities and international service projects. All projects and programs meet our mission and goals of improving the legal, political, economic, health, educational and professional status of women locally and globally. Ending gender-based violence, childhood marriage, adequate health care and access to basic resources drive our main projects.

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At work in our community

 

Our service projects vary every 2-3 years, but overall we work to perform hands-on service projects with local organizations who are aligned with “Making a Better World for Women and Girls." Each is briefly described below.

 

Current service initiatives include:

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• Maryhaven Women’s Program - an addiction recovery program, women live in communal home-like settings with their children as they build the skills and confidence to be more self-sufficient, find jobs, continue their education and/or secure housing. Zonta provides a toy box and toys for the children who come to visit their mothers in the program.  We additionally support Lunch and Learn activities and resources through collection toiletry and clothing donations.

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• CRIS  ( Community Resource and Immigration Support)   helps refugees and immigrants reach safety and stability, sustain self-sufficiency, and achieve successful integration into the Central Ohio community. Families come to Columbus fleeing oppression and violence and have many needs. Zonta assists with our 5K fundraiser and Advocacy Fair and collect bedding and car seats for young families coming to the area as refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine.

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• LSS/CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence has been the sole resources for victims seeking shelter in Franklin County for more than four decades. LSS CHOICES provide temporary emergency shelter, 24-crisis hotline, domestic violence counseling, legal advocates, peer support groups, and community awareness building. CHOICES offers services that help people begin to heal and recover from the trauma of their abuse and gain independence and self-sufficiency. Zonta partners to support holiday activities, Thanksgiving cookie decorating and Valentine candy bags for children, and other projects to support their mission.

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• Sanctuary Night is a sacred space serving vulnerable women who need a place to rest, eat, connect, and get desired resources and providing a safe, consistent environment for women experiencing homelessness, addiction, and involvement in the sex trade. During drop in hours, they provide a meal, coffee, clothing, hygiene items, showers, laundry, and a health clinic. Zonta supports their efforts through meals, and donations that serve 30 –40  women each night.

 

• Z-Club is our group for high school age students to provide service and advocacy and learn about the local and global needs and issues we can impact. Independently organized by high school volunteers, Zonta has a member advisor and works to integrate projects and communication.