The Zonta Club is accepting applications for the 2012 Young Women in Public Affairs Award.

The goal of the Young Women in Public Affairs Program is to encourage more young women ages 16-20 to participate in public and political life by recognizing their commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements and a dedication to the advancement of the status of women.

Applicants are asked to reflect on their lives, their commitments to the communities in which they live, and the role models who have inspired them to become involved in their communities or in a specific prospective career.

Applications are due to: Zonta Club of Austin, 1411 First Ave. SW, Austin MN 55912, by March 9. Applicants must be pre-university or pre-college students, ages 16-20.

The Award is funded by voluntary contributions to the Zonta International Foundation.

Contact Mary Jo Follmuth at the Zonta Club of Austin either by email at austinmnzonta@hotmail.com or phone at 507-433-5536 in the evening or 507-437-8773 during the day.