TITLE: Honoring Altrusa International for 100 years of service in Texas.

SUMMARY: Honoring Altrusa International for 100 years of service in Texas.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Members of Altrusa International across the Lone Star State are celebrating 100 years of service to Texas communities in April 2023; and WHEREAS, Altrusa International was founded in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1917, as a service organization for women dedicated to the betterment of society; the name "Altrusa" is a portmanteau combining the words "altruism" and "USA," and the group's motto is "Patriotism, Efficiency, Service"; and WHEREAS, In April 1923, Austin residents formed the first Altrusa chapter in Texas; the organization flourished in the Lone Star State, and over the years, Texas chapters have produced seven presidents of Altrusa International; and WHEREAS, The state's Altrusa members championed vocational training to help women enter the workforce during World War II; in the 1970s, the group adopted literacy as a major focus for its efforts; and WHEREAS, Today, Altrusa International has more than 30 clubs across Texas; the membership of almost 800 women and men provides over 81,000 volunteer hours annually; while maintaining an emphasis on reading and literacy programs for children and adults, members also work in behalf of such projects as higher education scholarships and alleviating hunger and homelessness; in addition, Altrusa sponsors nine Astra clubs that offer opportunities for service and leadership development to Texas youth from 13 to 21 years of age; and WHEREAS, Over the course of the past century, Altrusa International members have made a positive difference in numerous Texas communities, and it is a pleasure to join in recognizing this momentous milestone in the group's history; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby honor Altrusa International for 100 years of service in the Lone Star State and extend to the members sincere best wishes for continued success in their noteworthy endeavors; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Altrusa International as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Shine Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 128 was adopted by the House on March 8, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 140, Nays 0, 2 present, not voting. Chief Clerk of the House