Altrusa International of Mexico, Missouri, Inc. met July 24 at The Oaks for its program meeting. The meeting was called to order by Co-President Jackie Vaughn followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. There were 14 members in attendance along with one guest, the organization said in a news release.

Committee reports were as follows: Hospitality is in the process of planning the Christmas party. A member offered to host the party at her home.

Members were reminded about the upcoming annual Salad Dinner and Auction.

Announcements from the previous meeting include the recipient of the second winner of the Altrusa Scholarship. Katlyn Thull is a music teacher at Wellsville-Middletown School. She plans to use the scholarship to return to school to obtain a master’s degree. The club was also recognized as a 2024-2025 Distinguished Altrusa Club. The award is based on information sent in regarding service, membership, financial, leadership and communications.

Member Heather Hobbs invited Kim Perkins, nursery program manager at the Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Corrections Center (WERDCC), to speak about the new nursery at the correctional center. The center was mandated by legislation in 2022 to provide a nursery for incarcerated moms so they can stay with their babies after giving birth.

The nursery wing was remodeled and furnished to include cribs, infant bathing rooms, designated areas for educational sessions, kitchen space for heating up bottles and seven rooms for up to 14 mothers and their babies. It was opened in February 2025 for expecting mothers. Infants remain at the nursery for up to 18 months while mothers provide full-time care for their little ones, participate in educational and therapeutic programming, assist in maintaining a safe and loving environment, and prepare to return to the community, the release statd. In addition to the correctional center staff, they have six resident caregivers who have been trained to assist with the babies and mothers — and provide daycare services while moms complete continuing education courses. The nursery also facilitates regular visits from an outside pediatrician and services from federally funded programs including Head Start and Parents as Teachers.

Members gave Happy Moments and recited the benediction to close the meeting.

If you are interested in attending a meeting, visit Altrusa’s Facebook page at Altrusa International of Mexico, MO or email mexicoaltrusa@gmail.com.