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.

I hope you’ve all had a joyful and refreshing summer! As we wrap up August, I’m inspired by the renewed energy that always comes with this time of year and by each of you who continue to give so generously of your time, talent, and heart.

Earlier this month, we celebrated Friendship Day on August 3rd, a beautiful reminder of the strong bonds we share not only as fellow members, but as friends united in service. The spirit of friendship is at the core of everything Altrusa stands for - support, connection, and purpose. Let’s carry that spirit forward into all we do this season.

With our 2025–2027 Strategic Plan underway and a full calendar of meaningful service ahead, there’s never been a better time to re-engage, get involved, and invite others to join our mission. Whether you’ve been with Altrusa for years or are just getting started, you are a vital part of our story.

Thank you for all you do — in service, in leadership, and most of all, in friendship.

We were thrilled to host our first Grant Application Workshop on August 9, 2025. Member, Margaret Beaman, did a great job sharing practical tips, expert insights, and proven strategies for successfully securing grant funding.

A heartfelt thank you to member Lydia King, who worked behind the scenes to ensure our workshop ran smoothly. Lydia was our technology guru, handling everything from Zoom logistics to making sure the recording came to life beautifully. Her calm expertise and attention to detail made a huge difference. We’re so grateful for her support and tech magic!

We are proud to shine this month’s Member Spotlight on Margaret Beaman, a dedicated Altrusan who has been serving since 1990. With a PhD in Nursing and a remarkable professional background, Margaret brings not only heart but also expertise to our organization.

Margaret is a former International Foundation Chair and currently serves on the Altrusa International Foundation Grant Review Committee.

Recently, Margaret facilitated our Grant Applications Tips & Tricks Workshop, delivering an engaging, informative session filled with practical advice, insider tips, and a deep understanding of what makes an application stand out. Her commitment to empowering fellow members was evident, and we’re grateful for the wisdom she shared.

Now retired, Margaret continues to inspire us with her generosity, grace, and lifelong commitment to service.

Thank you, Margaret, for your ongoing dedication to Altrusa and the impact you make in every role you take on!

Introducing the Crochet & Knitting Club - A place to craft, connect, and spread sunshine through service!

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

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

🛒 You can’t walk through Target without grabbing "just a few things" for the next donation drive.

👒 You’ve attended a planning meeting wearing flip-flops and a smile.

💡 Your best fundraising ideas come to you while watering your plants.

🎉 You celebrate Friendship Day like it’s a national holiday — because for Altrusans, it kind of is.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz tricolor rotini pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 cup sliced black olives

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

• 1/3 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta.

3. Add dressing and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil if desired.

🧺 Altrusa Tip:
Double the recipe for group events — it holds up great in the fridge and travels well for community gatherings!

Altrusa International District Eleven

Altrusa International

President - Michelle Bell

Vice President - Gayleen Williams

Secretary - Lydia King

Treasurer - Alice Kluzak

Currently meeting in Rancho Mirage, CA and on Zoom

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