Altrusa Texarkana has served the Texarkana community since October 1941. It began as group primarily for women but has grown over the years to include men. Each member believes in the Altrusa mission to "make our local communities better through leadership, partnership and service."
They meet monthly, but the December meeting is different than the others.
Instead of the normal agenda, Altrusa Texarkana members use this time to celebrate Christmas, the spirit of giving, and each other. Former Altrusa President and Opportunities, Inc. Program Director, Frances Holcombe started this service project over 40 years ago.
Her dedication to those with Intellectual and developmental disabilities poured over to her service with Altrusa Texarkana.
Although members are making gifts for others, they are spending the time together which is just as rewarding, according to Stacy Hart, current Altrusa Texarkana president.
"We have dinner together, a silent auction, and we put together the gifts as a group," she said. "We truly enjoy the time together with each other. It is just as rewarding to serve together as it is to complete these projects."
Each gift they assemble includes a variety of things including books, winter hats or gloves, snacks, and more. The gifts are then delivered to Opportunities, Inc., during its annual Christmas party where the Altrusa Texarkana members are usually invited to attend.
(For more information on how to donate, attend, or join Altrusa Texarkana, email [email protected] or find them on Facebook.)