Altrusa International is an organization with local chapters and districts, spread out over the US and Puerto Rico, with smaller presence in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Ukraine, Russia, Korea, India, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador, Bermuda and New Zealand. Altrusa's purpose is to build stronger communities through service projects and fundraising that goes back into the community. The organization has a long history, starting in Nashville in 1917, as a service organization for women during WWI.
When I first heard of this organization, I checked into them to see if they would be a good fit in my life, and if I would be a good fit in theirs. I found the answer to both was "yes." The Garland, TX chapter is small in membership but the power behind this group of women is astonishing. Altrusa is involved with local elementary schools, providing story-time reading and support for book fairs by providing free books to schools with low socioeconomic students/families. Altrusa is involved with the local food bank by raising donations for support, and by serving at their facility. Altrusa is involved with fundraising and donates those funds to the local women's shelter, the local free health clinic, and countless other local charity organizations. Very little money is kept for administrative fees. The time and energy provided by the local members is all donated time; no salaries are paid. Members may be as active as they want to be. The international organization also provides leadership and training through annual district meetings, and bi-annual international meetings. Clubs join together to share ideas, best practices, and support for one another.
As a Christian, wife, mother, and career professional, I've found the opportunities as a member of Altrusa to be fun and rewarding, and sometimes very humbling. It's provided me with service and social activities I enjoy, and with women whom I call my friends. I would encourage anyone - women or men - looking for a way to serve their local community to check out Altrusa International - www.altrusa.org - to find a local chapter. You'll be glad you did.