Altrusa Intl. of Coachella Valley

We believe that everyone is able to make a positive difference to the world around them. We can each volunteer our time, or donate our money, towards worthy causes. Our individual efforts are small, but they matter.

We can achieve even more when we bring people together. For over 100 years Altrusa clubs have collected members from varying occupations and lifestyles, all sharing an interest in community service.

We enjoy the friendship, fun and satisfaction that comes from working together for the benefit of others. Each club develops a program that is tailored to local needs, undertaking a variety of hands-on service and fundraising projects each year. One of our shared goals as an organization is to improve literacy, which we believe is the key to opportunity.

Through Altrusa activities we develop our leadership skills in a supportive environment. We welcome new ideas and aim to provide enough flexibility so that our members can give their time in a way that works for them.

As the days grow a little shorter and the desert air begins to cool, we welcome a subtle shift in our Coachella Valley, marked not by falling leaves, but by the hum of overseeding across our golf courses and green spaces. Even without a traditional autumn, this season still reminds us of change, gratitude, and renewal. Just as nature prepares for a new cycle, Altrusans embrace this time to reflect, refocus, and reenergize our commitment to service.

October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to stand in solidarity with survivors and raise our voices against abuse. As Altrusans, we believe in compassion, dignity, and the power of community to bring hope and healing. We proudly wear purple, the color of awareness, to show our club’s support for this important cause and one of our favorite valley organizations, Shelter From The Storm.

Let us continue to lead with kindness, serve with purpose, and shine light where it’s most needed. Together, we embody the heart of Altrusa: building better communities through service, strength, and compassion.

This month, we’re shining the spotlight on someone who may not attend our meetings but is definitely always in the know! Meet Jim, our president Michelle’s husband and the unsung hero of Altrusa International of Coachella Valley.

Whether it’s hauling boxes, loading vehicles, or providing moral support, Jim is always there, quietly making sure everything runs smoothly. He’s the muscle behind our service projects, the logistics department for our fundraisers, and the ultimate team player who never complains.

Michelle says she couldn’t do all she does without him, and we believe it! Thank you, Jim, for your strength, patience, and sense of humor. You prove that behind every great Altrusan, there might just be a great Altrusan-by-marriage keeping the wheels turning!

Hello everyone,

It’s Karyme, your Communications Chair! I hope you’re all having a wonderful October so far. For those who didn’t get a chance to read last month’s newsletter, I’m a new member serving as the Communications Chair and currently a college senior at California State University San Bernardino – Palm Desert Campus. I’m excited to share a couple updates on our community engagement efforts so let’s dive in!

1. “De La Rosa Discussions” Podcast Launch
I’m excited to share that I’ve launched a new podcast series called De La Rosa Discussions! In the first episode, I sit down with our President, Michelle Bell, to talk about her inspiring journey with Altrusa and what being part of this organization means to her. You can listen to the episode down below!

2. Altrusa Radio Ad on PAWS Radio
As mentioned in last month’s update, I created a radio ad for Altrusa that’s now airing on PAWS Radio! I’m thrilled to share the final version with all of you. Click the button below to listen and I hope you enjoy hearing Altrusa’s message on the airwaves!

Click on this link for more Information - YARN DRIVE

Every contribution, big or small, helps us spread sunshine throughout our community. To get involved or learn more, visit our website here.

https://www.altrusacoachellavalley.org/service-projects

Nothing says fall quite like the aroma of pumpkin and spice wafting through the kitchen. This moist, flavorful bread pairs classic autumn spices with a hint of local citrus, a nod to our Coachella Valley sunshine even as the days cool.

Ingredients:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Citrus Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon fresh orange or Meyer lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x5 loaf pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.

3. In another bowl, combine pumpkin, oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.

4. Add dry ingredients to wet, stirring just until combined.

5. Pour into loaf pan and bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Cool completely, then drizzle with citrus glaze.

Serve it with: a hot cup of cinnamon tea or your favorite fall latte while watching the desert sunset...perfection!

“You know you're an Altrusan in October when…”

Why are sweaters great friends?

👉 They always have your back

October 11, 2025 - Stitches of Sunshine - Crochet & Knit Club

November 12, 2025 - Service Project Prep

Altrusa International District Eleven

Altrusa International

Email: altrusacoachella@gmail.com
Website: www.altrusacoachellavalley.org
Location: Coachella Valley, CA
Phone: 949-300-5619
Facebook: Altrusa Coachella Valley

Currently meeting in Rancho Mirage, CA and on Zoom

President - Michelle Bell

Vice President - Gayleen Williams

Secretary - Lydia King

Treasurer - Alice Kluzak