About Us
Altrusa was established in 1917 by Dr. Alfred Durham, a member of Kiwanis, in Nashville, Tennessee. Record numbers of women were going to work during World War I and Durham saw the need for women's civic organizations. While he would organize the clubs and collect a portion of the dues, Durham envisioned the Altrusa Institute as a chain of national clubs where business and professional women could meet and exchange ideas.
Altrusa International of Rogers was established in 1954. The members immediately adopted dental care for underpriviledged children as a service project. Over the years, the dental program has continued to be an important part of Altrusa, but members have adopted other important projects as well. They have expanded on the literacy program and volunteered at dozens of community events.
Altrusa International of Rogers recently made a donation to Saving Grace, Inc., a newly formed organization that will provide an affordable and safe place for young women to live, offer growth opportunities and help residents develop supportive relationships. The funds will assist in the renovation of the former convent of what is now the Center for Nonprofits at St. Mary’s in Rogers. Becky Shaffer, third from right, Executive Director of Saving Grace, accepts the check from Altrusans (from left) Dawn Metzer, Wendy Kumpe, Barb Smith, Connie McDaniel and Bonnie Grimes.
Altrusa International of Rogers collected over 300 books and magazines for the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Fayetteville as the organization's Make A Difference Day project. Pictured loading the books for delivery are Barb Smith, far left, President Terri Harkins and Debi Guinn. Altrusa chapters across the country are encouraged to participate in Make A Difference Day. Rogers Altrusans chose to combine Make A Difference Day efforts with their literacy program and chose to donate to the veterans facility after reading about the need for books and magazines. Altrusa is a civic organization in existance in Rogers since 1954.
