Wanda Frey Joiner attended a Kiwanis Club party. Wanting to form a similar group, Wanda and 4 businesswomen signed incorporation papers forming Quota Club International on 6 February 1919. The 5 founders chose to keep the club simple by using the golden rule as their code and the sharing of talent and responsibility as its ideal.

The founders' enthusiasm propelled the organization to become the first international women only service organization in 1925 with a club in Canada. By 1929 the membership had grown to 2500. In 1946, it was decided to emphasize service for the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing, while continuing to support and empower women and children.

Quota of Waterloo, Inc. was formed in May of 1926 by local businesswomen. There are currently over 60 members. In 2019 Quota International was discontinued with individual clubs given the choice to maintain a club. Quota of the Cedar Valley, Inc.​ was incorporated in 2020 to continue the previous ideals of service.

At the international Convention of 1942, a Quota Collect was adopted by all clubs.
Quench in our hearts, O Lord, all fires of selfishness Unfold to us the joys of true friendship. Open our minds to a better understanding of service. Teach us the real meaning of sharing. And help us to hold high those principles of Quota for which we stand. Amen (by B. Ethelda Mullen)