The Altrusa rose was originally propagated and sold in New Zealand by their Altrusa clubs as a way to support their community service projects.  Over 10,000 roses have been sold.

The sale of the rose in the United States and Canada was an initiative of the Spartanburg, South Carolina club. At Convention 2001 in Dallas the Spartanburg Club set up a display of bushes, pictures, and information about the Altrusa Rose and the fund raising potential. It is an absolutely beautiful miniature rose with colors including yellow, peach and a deep rose. The rose was propagated in Cross Hills, South Carolina by Michael Williams of The Mini Rose Garden in cooperation with the Spartanburg Club. Unfortunately sales of the Altrusa Rose by the Spartanburg Club had to be terminated because of Mr. Williams health.

In May following Conference 2001 Governor Sandy Furches had the opportunity to present an Altrusa Rose to the City of Lake City in honor of Altrusa International of Lake City's Charter President Faye Bowling Warren.