Altrusa International, Inc. of Mexico, met on April 27 at noon at The Oaks for their program meeting. The meeting was called to order by President Roberta Cope followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. There were fifteen members in attendance along with one guest.

Committee reports were as follows: ASTRA had a successful membership drive at the Mexico Middle School with 15 girls attending. They learned about ASTRA and participated in writing thank you cards to area fire fighters. The Special Events committee reminded everyone of the event at Hummingbird Winery on Saturday. Members and family are welcome to come out to socialize and hear the Echo’s play. Members are encouraged to sign up for a committee for the 2023-2024 year.

Lawanah Gillette stepped in for Donna Corrado to be guest speaker about the current hospital situation. She spoke about the demise of the hospital and plans to build a new one on land donated by Eddie Sydenstricker. She shared design plans created by ERDMAN Healthcare and Senior Living Architecture. The cost is estimated at $50 million to build and they hope to break ground this December and open in June 2025. The Audrain Regional Medical Center committee has their hands full with the red tape. Prior to funding, they need to apply for a 501(c)3 status and they also need to do a soil test on the donated land to see if it can properly support the foundation of the hospital.

Members shared Happy Moments and recited the benediction to close out the meeting.

Altrusa is always looking for new members. For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page at Altrusa International of Mexico, MO or email mexicoaltrusa@gmail.com.