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Foundation History

The Altrusa International Foundation is a not-for-profit, philanthropic corporation established in 1962 by Altrusa International, Inc., a worldwide volunteer service organization devoted to contributing to human well-being through the development and implementation of effective local community service programs. The Altrusa International Foundation is dedicated to improving economic well-being and quality of life through a commitment to community services and literacy. Since its beginning, the Foundation has provided bold leadership with over 10,000 women earning graduate degrees and beginning successful professional and business careers through its two (2) original programs of assistance, the Grants-in-Aid Program and the Founders Fund Vocational Aid Program. In 1977, Altrusa became the first volunteer service group to adopt literacy as the focus of its community activities. In response, the Altrusa International Foundation incorporated "Action for Literacy" into its philanthropic focus and established the ABC Literacy Grants program.. The Foundation has supported the efforts of countless local literacy councils and programs through it literacy awards. Today, the Foundation faces new challenges. Responding to the rapidly changing needs of communities, the Foundation has adjusted its focus, enabling it to support new areas of service while maintaining its traditional commitments to vocational services and literacy programs. Through the foundation Grants Program, the Foundation provides assistance to individuals and helps Altrusa clubs carry out the independent programs of community service with funds for vocational assistance; graduate school assistance to international students from developing countries; literacy projects; and community service projects sponsored by local Altrusa clubs Grants range from $250 to$1.000 based on need and funds available and are subject to specific selection criteria. The Altrusa International foundation reserves the right to make all final decisions on applications. Applications are available only through local Altrusa Clubs and individuals and projects must be sponsored by an Altrusa Club. The Foundation Endowment Fund is the Foundation’s legacy to future generations of Altrusans and the Communities they support. Contributions to this fund will ensure the ability of Altrusans to be good citizens in their communities. Interest income from the Endowment Fund is used to fund Altrusa International ASTRA Club Service Award and Letha H. Brown Literacy Awards. Interest income also funds the Foundation’s own Community Leadership Award for nature disasters with swift, direct aid anywhere in the world. The Foundation’s Club 21 program, established in 1997, supports children with HIV and AIDS. Lamplighters are Altrusans who contribute $500 or more to the Foundation in one year’s time. A Lamplighter is award an special recognition piece in honor of this contribution. Contributions can be made in one’s own name or in honor or in memory of someone else.