Through its foundation, Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva invites applications each summer from 501(c)(3) organizations in Lee County for grants to be awarded early the following year. Those selected become Zonta “partners,” each with a club member as liaison.
Every March since 2002, Zonta has raised its grant funds through “A Peek at the Unique,” the home tour. In January 2020, Zonta distributed $104,700 from its 2019 Peek to 16 local partners, including Community Housing and Resources (CHR), F.I.S.H., SalusCare, Habitat for Humanity, Dress for Success, PACE and ten more.
Dress for Success Executive Director, Nickole Hendra (L) receiving her 2020 grant award from Zontian Marla Manning.
Despite cancellation of the 2020 Peek last March, out of concerns for health and safety, funds for distribution in January 2021—while reduced—will be available through the generosity of benefactors, sponsors, and 2020 tour ticket-buyers. Zonta is proud to introduce some of the wonderful organizations supported by these funds.
Meet Dress for Success of SW Florida. Dress for Success empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing development tools and a network of support. Also, professional attire for an interview, along with a work-week wardrobe upon employment, including accessories, footwear and toiletries, are given to every woman in the program. The development tools furnish each woman with a confidence that allows her to define her goals, her life’s direction, and what success means to her.
Zonta’s 2020 grant funds have been used by Dress for Success for the Women Empowered Through Employment Series (WETES) and the Entrepreneurial Spirit Program (E$P). This 6-week program educates women on such topics as “Dressing the Part”, “Resume Writing”, and “Nailing the Interview.” The skills learned in the WETES and E$P, along with the complete interview outfit, empower the participant to succeed in her job search.
Dress for Success offers long lasting solutions that break the cycle of poverty, which disproportionately affects women. Zonta and Dress for Success believe that achieving gender equality is imperative to developing a sustainable and just world. Recognizing the significant role of women in economic development is the smart thing do. With a mission of empowering women through service and advocacy, the Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva embraces partnering with Dressed for Success.
Look for information soon about a “Repurposed Peek” set for Saturday, March 13, 2021. To support Zonta’s work, visit www.ZontaSanCap.org and click on “Donate.”
