Dear Zontians,
Looking back at the last almost 2 years gives me a good, positive feeling. Together we had many accomplishments. Thank you to all members who reached out to me for suggestions, guidance and support. I am glad I could help in many situations. We had a busy biennium but it is not over yet. We still have work to do.
We all know that District I membership numbers are considerably below (currently 185) the expected 300. The writing has been on the wall for years but now Zonta International wants some changes for us.
President Sharon Langenbeck has suggested some options we need to consider:
- Is it plausible to develop a membership plan for chartering new clubs or bringing in new members to the existing clubs. What would it take to bring the membership up to 300? Can a membership plan be implemented to achieve the 300 members over the next year or two?
- What would it look like and what approach would be taken to become integrated with another district? Consider the benefits such as greater resources (both people and monies); positive momentum from larger events and information sharing; working jointly with other clubs on advocacy and other activities. If this is what we decide would be best then what is the path we take? Zonta International would help us to find a solution.
- Is it feasible to stay together as a group of clubs with the same boundaries as District 1 but to become a region of Zonta International. Would it benefit to keep the area strong?
I did reach out to Sharon and to our International Liaison Ute Scholz. Zonta overall has had a 3% decrease in membership. We need to consider how this will play out in, let’s say, 10 years from now? We want the best solution for all our members and for Zonta.
I respect everybody’s opinion. I hope to get your feedback so I can prepare a report before May 12 so it can be discussed at the May 26 Zonta International Board meeting.
In a nutshell, we have to decide to either have a solid plan to 1) increase the membership numbers; 2) join another district or several districts; or 3) to change to a Region.
I trust you all know how important we all are. Zonta International is nothing without its members, and Zonta needs us.
Thank you for your consideration. Working together, we can confirm the right plan that works for us and that will also support Zonta International’s service and advocacy.
Warm regards,
Beatrice Schori
Governor D1 2020-2022
March 2022