Altrusa International of Mexico, Missouri Inc. recently held its annual salad auction on Nov. 14 at the Mexico Elks Lodge. Altrusa members raise funds throughout the year through multiple fundraisers, including this auction, which raised over $6,500.

Prior to the auction, the Community Service Chair distributed grants totaling $4,400 to local agencies. Applications were mailed in September to local agencies to apply for the grants. Agencies receiving grants were: Agape House in Vandalia, Audrain County Shelter Resource Coalition – Room at the Inn, Bright Futures, Children’s Emergency Fund 12th Circuit, Children’s Therapy & Early Education School, Inc., Audrain County Dream Factory, Mexico Area Family YMCA, Mexico Schools Olympics, Mexico Senior Center, Missouri Children’s Division, Presser Arts Center, Simmons Stable Preservation Fund, Southside Christian Academy, St. Brendan School, St. Joseph Catholic School, and St. Vincent DePaul Society.

Caleb Marquette of Marquette Auction Services called the live auction. A purse raffle, 50/50 raffle, quilt raffle and a silent auction were also part of the evening’s events.

Altrusa International is a service organization consisting of local professionals who provide support and networking opportunities for its members, promote literacy and education and help fill the needs of Mexico and the surrounding communities; they are always looking for new members. You can visit their Facebook page at Altrusa International of Mexico, MO or email at mexicoaltrusa@gmail.com.