Zonta & South Slough, Jan. 20

The Friends of South Slough Reserve, Inc. (FOSS) has been awarded $1,650 from the Coos Bay area Zonta Foundation in support of the internship program at the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (SSNERR). In particular, the Zonta grant money will be used in support of female interns from the Coos Bay area participating in the SSNERR internship program. FOSS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing support for the National Estuarine Research Reserve located in the South Slough here on the southern Oregon coast in Coos County. FOSS seeks grants such as this that enable the Reserve to provide programs and infrastructure that benefit the public. FOSS’ overarching goal is an increased public awareness of the crucial role that estuaries and their watersheds play in maintaining viable environments essential to living Pacific NW ecosystems, which in turn support important coastal economic engines such as fisheries and tourism. The FOSS organization also maintains a book store at the SSNERR Interpretive Center, and FOSS volunteers help interpret South Slough’s ecology, natural features, and history for visitors during guided paddle trips, trail walks, classes, and special events hosted at the SSNERR. Zonta International seeks to: improve the legal, political, economic, health, educational and professional status of women through service and advocacy; work for the advancement of understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of executives in business and the professions; promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; be united internationally to foster high ethical standards, implement service programs, and provide mutual support and fellowship for members who serve their communities, their nations, and the world. The Zonta Club of the Coos Bay Area was chartered in 1953 and has grown to include over 80 women throughout Coos County. Their club has raised and distributed over $240,000 in just the last 10 years.