The Altrusa Club of Tucson was chosen by District Eleven as the winner of the Mamie L. Bass Award for Service during the 2002-2003 year for participating in the Tucson American Red Cross event, "Save A Life Saturday." Many club members helped plan the activities, and then were present for the day-long event.  Tucson Altrusans who attended the conference were awarded with a plaque at the final District Eleven banquet. The plaque will be displayed at club meetings and an honorary check for $100 from District Eleven will be deposited for use in future club projects.

The Altrusa Club of Tucson received national recognition as well in the April 27, 2003 edition of Parade magazine and in USA Weekend as part of a general article on "Save A Life Saturday" events taking place around the U.S.