ZONTA positively changes women’s lives in our local community and internationally.
We advocate for women's rights
We partner with our community to achieve common goals
We contribute our time, talent and treasures
We raise money for scholarships, grants to local non-profit organizations, and support Zonta International's projects
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UPCOMING EVENTS AND DEADLINES
October Is Domestic
Violence Awareness Month
Breaking the Silence: Join Us in Raising Awareness for Domestic Violence This October
"On a typical day in 2023, domestic violence hotlines in Washington State received 562 contacts, averaging more than 23 contacts per hour, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence. And in 2022, 53 people were victims of domestic violence homicide, as tracked by the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence."
Every October, we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month to bring attention to the ongoing crisis of domestic violence and to support survivors in their journey toward safety and healing. Domestic violence affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and its impact can be devastating—not only to the individuals directly involved but also to families and communities. This month, we stand united in raising awareness, providing resources, and advocating for the safety of all those affected by domestic violence. We encourage everyone to educate themselves, support local organizations, and be a voice for those who may not be able to speak out. Together, we can break the silence and help end domestic violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Reach out to an Advocate at @NationalDomesticViolenceHotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE or chat online, or at @loveisrespectpage by texting LOVEIS to 22522.
Member Spotlight: Mary Jelvik, Honored with the 2024 South Sound Exceptional Woman Award!
We are so proud to announce our Zonta Club of Olympia recipient of the Soroptimist of Olympia 2024 South Sound Exceptional Woman, Mary Jelvik!
Mary has been an integral part of Zonta Olympia since 2014, contributing her skills and dedication to various roles over the past decade. Currently serving as Chair of the Club Advocacy Committee, Mary is actively involved in advocating for the passing of the End Child Marriage legislation in Washington State. Her leadership during the recent pandemic as President ensured the club remained connected and focused on its mission of helping women and children. Mary's unwavering commitment to this cause has greatly benefited the club over the years. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Mary navigated the club through the Zoom era and spearheaded fundraising efforts despite fluctuating restrictions.
Congratulations, Mary!
Zonta International Calls for Urgent Aid and Safety in Gaza
As violence intensifies in Israel, with a disproportionate impact on women and girls, Zonta International strongly denounces all forms of conflict-related violence. The organization underscores the unequivocal condemnation of inhumane acts.
Gaza is currently in a critical state, with reports revealing 50,000 pregnant women unable to access vital health services. Among them, 5,500 are expected to give birth in the next month, leading to 166 daily births without proper healthcare or clean water. In support of UN Secretary-General António Guterres' plea for swift humanitarian access to Gaza, Zonta International advocates for ensuring essential supplies and healthcare services for all civilians, especially women and children.
Aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 1325, Zonta urges all involved parties to fully adhere to international laws protecting the rights of women and girls, particularly as civilians. The resolution emphasizes the need for special measures to shield women and girls from gender-based violence in armed conflicts. Zonta International remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights, safety, and well-being of those impacted by the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Learn more about ZI's involvement here.
Empowering Women Through Action: Next Right Step's Impactful Initiative
What is NRS?
NRS is a wrap-around fund that pays for non-crisis, one-time expenses that are barriers to a woman’s self-sufficiency. Women can access up to $500 for expense related to maintaining transportation, legal, education, employment, health and housing.
From 2017 to 2023, the Next Right Step, in partnership with the Zonta Club of Olympia, has contributed $87,600, impacting the lives of 260 women in Thurston County.
What is the NRS Giving Circle?
A Giving Circle is simply a group of people who band together to pool their philanthropic money and make charitable donations to a cause we all care about. The NRS Giving Circle honors and builds on the 7- year legacy of Zonta’s NRS. The Giving Circle raises money for the same cause and together we amplify our power and make a greater impact.
By becoming a Giving Circle member, your donation can positively influence the lives of 2-5 women this year, contributing to the strength and resilience of our community. Join us in making a lasting impact!
As of 2024, Zonta Club of Olympia will be donating $2000 annually. Interested in being a supporter?
Learn more here.
PAST HIGHLIGHTS
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Event
On May 14th 2024, Zonta Club of Olympia held a MMIW Call to Action event to discuss how we as a community can fight against the injustices and violence on Native American women and families.
We were honored to host an impactful event featuring distinguished guests Harvest Moon, a Coastal Salish Master Basketweaver and Storyteller; Jeri Moomaw, Executive Director of Innovations Human Trafficking Collaborative; and our Keynote Speaker, Roxanne White, Executive Director and Founder of Missing, Murdered Indigenous Women, People and Families.
The first step in preventing the victimization of Native sisters is raising awareness. These crimes affect us all and are not just a tribal issue.
For more information and to find out how you can help, visit Native Women's Wilderness MMIW.
Learn more about our previous MMIW event here.
Congratulations 2024-2025 Grant Recipients!
We are excited that the following local non-profit organizations will receive our support for the next yea, beginning with the Celebration of Giving held in March. Typical grants are up to $3,000 per year.
Learn more about our grant programs here.
Tackling Child Marriage in Washington: A Call to Action for January 18th
Child marriage poses a significant threat in Washington due to perilous legal loopholes allowing parents to arrange marriages for children of any age. Shockingly, between 2000 and 2021, 5,048 minors, some as young as 13, were married in the state, with over 80% involving girls marrying adult men. This alarming practice creates a legal quagmire, impacting every aspect of a young girl's life, prompting the U.S. State Department to label marriage before 18 as a "human rights abuse."
The Washington Coalition to End Child Marriage recently organized a highly successful Chain-in event at the Capital in support of the HB1455 aimed at ending child marriage in Washington State. During this impactful demonstration, volunteers donned wedding gowns, were linked together in chains, and symbolically had their mouths taped. A significant number of Zonta members from across Washington State actively participated in the event.
Learn more about event here.
Member Spotlight: Toy Kay's Prestigious Award from Olympia Historical Society!
On January 27, 2024, Toy Kay was honored with an award by the Olympia Historical Society for her outstanding community service leadership in Olympia and Thurston County.
Having been a Zonta member since 1961, Toy stands as the fifth longest-serving member of Zonta International. Her legacy extends further with an endowment scholarship in her name at Evergreen State College. Notably, she is also the accomplished author of the book "An American Picture Bride."
Congratulations, Toy, on these remarkable achievements!
2023 Hotel Olympian Gala Extravaganza!
Zonta of Olympia's 2023 Fall Fundraiser
“The Hotel Olympian Grand Gala Extravaganza"!
We hope you could have joined us for this recreation of the 1920 post-pandemic grand gala celebrating the opening of the Hotel – and find out how Olympia saved our Capitol from the would-be usurpers in Tacoma and Seattle.
Our two-day event in September required a lot of effort, but the results were truly rewarding! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, and donated, making this weekend an incredible success. Bryan Willis's "Hotel Olympian Gala Extravaganza" play and the delectable food by Chef Lela Cross and her team were enjoyed by all.
Through ticket sales, raffle tickets, the "raise the paddle" initiative, and post-event donations, we raised approximately $21,000. Save the date for next year's fundraiser on September 21st, 2024. Your continued support means the world to us! We cannot wait to see you all again next year!
SERVICE AND ADVOCACY SPOTLIGHT
Eliminating Child Marriage
WASHINGTON STATE
Learn more about the how Zonta International is supporting the End Child Marriage project in this flyer and in the video below.
House Bill 1455: It Passed!
4,831 children were married in the State of Washington between 2000 and 2018.
As of 2024, only ten states have passed laws ending child marriage and Washington is now the 11th! Currently, there are many loopholes that allow marriage under the age of 18.
HB 1455 will be eliminating some of those loopholes that exist in Washington State such as:
Void of marriages that were attained under the age of 18.
Void of marriages with persons incapable of consenting or when consent was obtained by force.
Removing the exception of parental/guardian consent to underage marriage.
Updates
As of February 23rd: HB 1455 passed both House and Senate!
Governor Inslee has signed HB1455, making Washington the 11th state (and the first on the West Coast) to end child marriage!
Read more about this from the Seattle Times.
Empowering Kinship Families:
Zonta Olympia's Year-Round Commitment
What is a Kinship Family?
Kinship families typically include grandparents, aunts, and sisters who have assumed the responsibility of raising siblings, opting for family care over placement in foster homes. This decision often places unforeseen financial burdens on caregivers. Zonta Olympia strives to bring a touch of joy to their lives by alleviating some of these hardships.
How it works:
For several years, Zonta Olympia has been a proud sponsor of Kinship families, extending financial support for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, providing gifts for the entire family during the holiday season, distributing Easter candy, and ensuring birthday celebrations are memorable.
These deserving families are referred to us through Family Education and Support Services, where they undergo careful screening before becoming recipients of our assistance.
Zonta Olympia commits to adopting these families for at least a full year, recognizing the unique challenges faced by Kinship families.
Meet Our 2023-2024 Families
This year, Zonta Olympia as proudly adopted two families:
Sierra (29): Along with her partner Caitlin, Sierra is raising her 15-year-old brother and 10-year-old sister while their mother is incarcerated. They reside in Olympia, and Sierra is currently working towards obtaining her commercial driver’s license.
Nicole (32): Nicole is raising her 14-year-old niece and 13-year-old son. Working as an in-home care provider, Nicole earns just enough to disqualify her from rent/utilities assistance.
Interested in supporting these families?
To bolster the support for these families, Zonta Olympia hosts annual holiday parties, creating a space to not only celebrate but also to deepen our understanding of the Kinship family program and contribute gifts. The commitment to these families extends beyond the festive season, reflecting Zonta Olympia's dedication to making a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.
CLUB OF OLYMPIA CALENDAR
Interested? Take a look at our page on becoming a member and contact us!
We can not wait to see you at our next meeting!