The answer to the first question is simple, I joined because
I knew my mother really wanted me to join in this organization that she really
liked and I saw it as an opportunity to share something with her. The answer to the second question is because
Altrusa has given me so many blessings and changed my life in so many beautiful
ways.
Of course this organization has given me the satisfaction
that I am helping many who are less fortunate and helping to make our community
a better place to live. I have also met
some amazing people from all over the state, country and even in other parts of
the world. Some who have become
extremely important to me and whom I consider my friends. But the gifts of Altrusa do not stop there.
Many people who know me now will really laugh about this
next statement. When I joined Altrusa
back in 2006, I was extremely shy and lacked any sort of self-confidence. I was the member who looked for the seat
where I thought I’d get the least amount of notice. I was happy to sit back and listen while
everyone else did the talking and made all of the decisions. I would literally get sick at my stomach if I
had to speak in front of more than 2 or 3 people.
As you all know, that has certainly changed! Now, while I may get emotional and have tears
in my eyes when I get up and talk about Altrusa, I can do it with courage and
pride. The support and encouragement
that I have received over the years from my fellow Altrusans has given me a
self-confidence and poise that I don’t think I would have ever found in any
other place. Me! An introverted woman from a little known
small community in East Texas.
In my second year in Altrusa, I was asked to serve as the
club secretary. A job I knew I would not
be good at, but one I figured I could not botch up too much. So I accepted the job with as much dignity as
I could muster and did the best job I knew how to do. I was by far NOT the best secretary in the
world, but at least I didn’t screw up too badly. At least I don’t think I did. So began my long tradition of not knowing how
to say “no” when asked to do a job. I
was surprised when the next year they asked me to help out with the club’s
yearbook. But, being the soldier that I
am, I accepted and helped the yearbook editor get the book out on time.
I was nearly speechless when, in my third year in Altrusa, a
member of the nominating committee approached me and asked me if I would serve
as the club’s president the next year. I
wanted to ask her if she was out of her mind, but I figured that was too rude
of a reaction. But I did tell her I
didn’t think I’d be any good at it. She
assured me I’d be fine and so I accepted.
I stayed president for 3 terms.
Our club did not disband during that time, so I guess I did okay.
Since that time, I have been asked to serve on committees at
the district level (I’m on my second committee now) and now on the international
level. I’ve accepted each time with the
thought that I will always help in any way that I can. But each time, it is I who has received
something in return. These positions
have helped me learn more about Altrusa and also to grow as an individual and
hopefully as a leader.
Hopefully in sharing my story, I will encourage at least one
of you to have the courage to step up and accept a leadership role. Volunteer to chair a committee or to fill a
position on your local board. Get
involved at the district or international level, you’ll be glad you did.
I know I am biased, but I believe Altrusa really is the best
organization you could ever belong to.
It is truly a builder of women (and men now as well), but it has helped
me to grow and I know it can help you to grow as well.
Laure Bruner
Anderson CountyPlease share your thoughts about Altrusa with the world. Guest bloggers are always welcome. Email Governor Beth with your idea (if you want help), or just send your post.
