Zonta International was founded in 1919 in Buffalo, New York.  The name is derived from the Sioux Indian word meaning "honest and trustworthy."  Zontians actively work to improve the status of women both international and locally. Zonta International has worked as a Non-Governmental Organization  (NGO) with the United Nations since the U.N. was established in 1945.   Zonta differs from other service organizations because it offers an environment where women of diverse professions, backgrounds and ages can join together in membership, fundraising, networking and on service projects to benefit local, regional and international communities.   Zonta International is a worldwide service organization of executives in business and the professions working together to advance the status of women.