This year’s deadline for applications and any supporting material is March 20. Both awards are for $300, but Zonta is an international organization, and winners at the local level are subsequently eligible for larger scholarships.

The Zonta International District 2 Jean M. Coon Humanitarian Award is granted to a young woman in grades 11 or 12 for outstanding community service. The winner receives $300 from the local Zonta Club of the Adirondacks and becomes one of 20 applicants eligible for a $500 District 2 prize in June.

The Young Woman In Public Affairs award goes to a student aged 16-19 years old who has demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism, is experienced in leadership, and has knowledge of Zonta International and its programs.

Applicants can be in college, so long as the required age limits are met. Zonta Club of the Adirondacks awards $300, and the winner is automatically entered into a pool of 20 at the district level for a scholarship of $1500. Ultimately, the district level winner has the opportunity to be chosen from 10 candidates for a $5,000 award. There are no restrictions on how the scholarship money is spent.

All application materials must be submitted directly by the applicant, or the individual making a recommendation, and sent via email to zontaadkscholarships@gmail.com Any questions related to the application process also may be sent to this email, but note that high school guidance departments may not submit applications on behalf of applicants. For more information about both scholarships, visit zontaadk.org, under the “Financial Awards” tab and to learn more about Jean M. Coons, go to “District Awards” at zontadistrict2.org.

Zonta International is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that was founded over 100 years ago in Buffalo, New York. It has clubs in 63 countries and consultative status at the United Nations. Its vision is a world in which women’s rights are recognized as human rights, and every woman is able to fulfill her full potential. For more information about Zonta International, go to zonta.org.

For information about the local club, visit zontaadk.org or attend a monthly meeting as a guest to learn how you can become a member and help empower women worldwide through service and advocacy.