When we talk about Altrusa International of Richardson, we are talking about the power of women uniting with intention, compassion, and a shared desire to make our community better. Many know Altrusa as an international service organization, but here in Richardson, it’s a home base where purposeful work and genuine friendship meet. We serve because we love our city, and we do it side by side, forming bonds that often last a lifetime.

Our theme this year is Teamwork, Friendship, Service—three words that capture the spirit of our club. Whether we’re assembling books for local students, honoring women leaders, or celebrating a birthday at Ability House, we show up together with enthusiasm, confidence, and kindness.

A Welcoming Community of Women Who Want to Give Back

With roughly 70 members, Altrusa Richardson is a diverse group of women representing different professions, ages, and backgrounds. What unites us is the belief that our time and energy can help build a stronger, more connected Richardson, TX. Membership is open to all women who share this passion.

Regardless of how members discovered the organization, they stay because of the bonds built through service. As a phrase we often repeat states, “We’re not just members—we’re Altrusa sisters.” Service brings us together, but friendship is what keeps us strong.

Committees That Turn Compassion Into Action

The heart of our organization lies in our committees, allowing members to focus on causes that resonate most personally.

Community Outreach & Local Partnerships

The Community Outreach Committee is one of our busiest groups. They recently supported the RISD Backpack Bash and the Richardson Reads One Book author event. Key partnerships include:

• Supporting the Warren Center’s Fantasy Football fundraiser.
• Participation in the Richardson Nonprofit Fair and Culture in the Core.
• Organizing a team for the Alzheimer’s Walk for the Cure.
• Donating coats and peanut butter to Network of Community Ministries.
• Facilitating the Apple Tree Court auction for senior residents.
• Hosting birthday and holiday celebrations for residents of Ability House, a home for adults with cerebral palsy that holds a special place in our hearts.

Altrusa members preparing and serving refreshments at a holiday or birthday celebration, demonstrating their commitment to hands-on service for residents in the community.

The Kindness Committee and KAN Weekend

Another committee reflecting our core values is the Kindness Committee, which promotes empathy and connection. Through a partnership with Richardson ISD, we help establish Choose Kind Libraries in elementary schools, providing books that encourage students to lead with compassion.

One of our largest endeavors, the KAN (Kindness Action Night) Weekend, has grown into a multi-partner experience. During KAN, we assemble kits for nonprofits, collect books for the RISD Intake Center, and recognize groups in the community who exemplify kindness.

Dedicated Altrusa members and volunteers gather during the holiday season, embodying the spirit of kindness and service central to the organization’s mission.

We’ve spread kindness through creative acts, from treating first responders to cookies to crafting badge pulls for nurses. The goal is always the same: to spread kindness widely, meaningfully, and creatively.

Leadership and Socializing

Our Leadership Committee organizes workshops that help our members and the community grow as leaders. We also balance our service with bonding through a book club, bridge group, and a monthly Lunch Bunch—strengthening the sense of sisterhood.

Honoring Women and Fueling Change: The Annual Luncheon

Every October, our club hosts its only fundraiser: the Outstanding Women of Today luncheon. This is one of our most meaningful traditions, honoring women from across the region who have excelled in fields like small business, education, healthcare, and nonprofit leadership. We are constantly inspired by these honorees who not only excel professionally but uplift others.

Altrusa members and guests celebrating at the annual Outstanding Women of Today Luncheon, the organization’s key fundraising event supporting scholarships and service projects.

The luncheon allows us to raise the necessary funds to support dozens of service projects throughout the year, as well as crucial scholarships for Richardson ISD seniors and students residing within the Richardson city limits. We joyfully invest in the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

A Shared Commitment to Making a Difference

For us, service takes many shapes: packing backpacks, ushering at reading events, or sharing laughter at an Ability House birthday party. Our mission is alive in these small moments—moments when we witness someone feel cared for, recognized, or empowered.

Altrusa Richardson is a community of women who believe in the power of service. We believe that kindness matters. And we believe that when women work together with intention, we can improve lives—our own included.

For more information and to get involved, visit the Altrusa Richardson website at altrusarichardson.com.