Founded in 1917, Altrusa International Inc. is a non-profit organization for civic leaders who want to better their communities by addressing local needs. Altrusans proudly give over a million volunteer hours a year in clubs around the world. Altrusa members have a passion for service through hands-on efforts, working with other groups and with fund-raising events.
At a local level, Altrusa International of Waynesville was chartered in 1980. An art auction held in 1991 provided the seed money to begin their local scholarship program. Since that time the Club has granted $227,000 in scholarships to Haywood County students. The annual Soup & Cornbread Fundraiser has been the primary means of raising those funds to help local students achieve their education goals. The event required a minimum of 400 volunteer hours beginning in September through event day in January. Given many current factors, Altrusa of Waynesville has decided to retire the Soup and Cornbread fundraiser.
However, the need to support Haywood County students continues. The Waynesville Club has established an endowment fund with the Haywood County School Foundation that allows Altrusa to grant a minimum number of scholarships in the coming years, but Altrusans desire to help more than a minimum!
Each year Altrusa receives over 100 applications from graduating seniors requesting financial assistance. With donations from both individuals and businesses, they can continue to assist very deserving students.
We know this community puts a great value on education. You have shown that over the years with the number of scholarships given each year with your help. To continue your support, send your donation to: Waynesville Altrusa, PO Box 947, Waynesville, NC 28786; or to Haywood County School Foundation, 1230 N Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 (include notation on check for “Altrusa”.)
For more information about Waynesville Altrusa, call (828) 318-7710.
Originally printed in Positively Haywood by Vicinitus; vicinitus.com