Zonta Club Mönchengladbach turns anniversary into €3,000 lifeline for women's shelter

The Zonta Club Mönchengladbach I marked its anniversary with a charitable twist. Instead of exchanging gifts, members raised over €3,000 for a local women's shelter. The event also brought together civic leaders and representatives from nearby clubs to celebrate the organisation's impact. The club's anniversary celebration took place with notable attendees, including Lord Mayor Felix Heinrichs. He congratulated founding members Marianne Ziegele and Edith Weiss-Henseler for their long-standing dedication. Mayor Gülistan Yüksel also spoke, emphasising the club's role in supporting local charitable projects in Mönchengladbach.

The funds raised will go towards furnishing a new shelter for women and children fleeing crisis situations. This initiative reflects the club's ongoing commitment to practical, community-focused support.

Antje Buch, President of the Union of German Zonta Clubs, addressed the gathering as well. She highlighted Zonta's broader international work, including advocacy for gender equality and educational access. The event also drew representatives from neighbouring Zonta clubs and local service organisations, reinforcing the network's collaborative spirit.

Zonta International, with over 26,000 members across 64 countries, operates through more than 1,200 clubs worldwide. Strong chapters exist in the US, Germany—such as in Köln, Bad Kissingen-Schweinfurt, and Würzburg—and Austria, including the Südoststeiermark region. The Mönchengladbach club continues to bridge this global mission with tangible local action. The €3,000 donation will directly improve conditions for women and children in the new shelter. The anniversary event underscored the club's dual focus: advancing Zonta's worldwide goals while addressing immediate needs in Mönchengladbach. Local and international representatives left with a shared commitment to further projects.