2024 WINTER COMMUNITY EDITION
Carisma Ramsey Fields, President
Stephanie Swan, Public Relations
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® , Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is a dynamic and dedicated organization that was chartered on August 14, 2022, with the noble mission of serving the communities of Grand Prairie, Irving, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas
With a strong emphasis on community service and maintaining a healthy sorority and work/life balance, our chapter is committed to positively impacting the lives of those around us. To ensure inclusivity and convenience for all, we offer various outreach options and locations, allowing us to reach and engage with the members of our community effectively.
As we strive to address the pressing issues these communities face, it is essential to note that within the 238-square-mile radius of our selected service area, over 77,000 families with children under 17 are below the federal poverty line These communities face recurring challenges in health, economic stability, education, and other civic matters. In light of the seismic shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, our programs aim to provide much-needed assistance to these communities as we navigate the new normal. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® stands ready to help and make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve
About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) is an international service organization founded in 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. It is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American, college-educated women. Alpha Kappa Alpha comprises over 350,000 members in 1,061 graduate and undergraduate chapters in the United States, the U S Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Japan, Liberia, South Africa and South Korea Led by International President and CEO Danette Anthony Reed, Alpha Kappa Alpha is often hailed as “America’s premier Greek-letter organization for African American women.” For more information on Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and its programs, visit www.aka1908.com
Greetings Family and Friends,
As we embark on the final month of the Greater Tasks to Begin Administration, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our amazing community and partners in Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas. Your unwavering support has been essential to our success, and we are truly grateful for all that you do
In this winter edition of our community newsletter, we are thrilled to share with you the progress we have made since our last update in the summer. It's been a busy few months, but we are excited about all that we have accomplished and the positive impact we continue to make in our communities.
We have some exciting events coming up that we would love for you to attend. Your presence not only lifts our spirits but also demonstrates our collective dedication to making a difference in our neighborhoods. We hope to see you there!
Thank you all for your continued support and commitment. Together, we can achieve great things and create a better future for all. Let's keep moving forward and making a positive impact in our communities.
Serving with a Vision,
Carisma Ramsey Fields President
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter abphio.president@gmail.com
ALPHA BETA PHI OMEGA
Soared to the Polls in 2024
A powerful call to action was met by 18 enthusiastic students on Monday, October 21, as they proudly exercised their right to vote during the "Stroll to the Polls" event. Escorted by members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter, alongside the Greater Southwest DFW NPHC, the NAACP, and the Lancaster High School community, this impactful event went beyond just casting ballots. Surrounded by notable figures like Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, Dee McGuire, Roland Martin, and Lancaster ISD Superintendent Dr. A. K. Perera, the event fostered a sense of civic responsibility and active engagement
ALPHA BETA PHI OMEGA
2024 VOTER REGISTRATIONS BY THE NUMBERS
343 Registered Voters
547 Voters Educated
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter members were a spooktacular combo of fun and compassion at the Grand Prairie Family YMCA Trunk or Treat event on October 24, 2024.
With their bags filled with treats and their hearts brimming with generosity, they collected canned goods during the event to help those in need. It was a pumpkin-rific way to show that giving back can be both boo-tiful and fang-tastic!
#EnhanceOurEnvironment! The partnership between the Grand Prairie Family YMCA and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter brought about an impactful City Wide Shredding and Electronic Recycling Day in Grand Prairie, Texas on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
325 pounds of paper 125.3 pounds of ewaste
This event promoted environmental consciousness and demonstrated the power of community engagement and sustainable practices. #EnhanceOurEnvironment signifies a shared commitment to a greener future through responsible shredding and electronic recycling initiatives. Bravo to all involved in this remarkable endeavor!
SEASON OF GRATITUDE
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®,
Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is taking the first steps of the Season of Gratitude by coming together in prayer and unity under the leadership of our esteemed International President and CEO, Danette Anthony Reed.
The International Worship Sunday on November 3, 2024, marked the start of this season where we came together in prayer under the theme "United in Prayer to Soar and Serve."
Worshipping together exhibited our unwavering dedication to community, faith, and unity. Additionally, our chapter's contribution of more than 200 items to St. John Church's Season of Giving Food Drive has truly amplified our commitment to serving others.
500 ITEMS DONATED FOR FRIENDSGIVING
We had a heartwarming Friendsgiving celebration on November 16, 2024 at All Things Made New in Irving, TX, partnering with them to give back during the holiday season. The atmosphere was filled with joy and a sense of community as we gathered to donate non-perishable items; our chapter alone contributed nearly 500 items to support those in need.
All Things Made New's Mentoring Program stands out for its dedication to providing youth mentorship, character development, and life skills training, guiding them towards fulfilling and rewarding lives. Their mission, focused on motivating middle and high school students to develop strong characters and become goal-oriented individuals, truly resonates with our vision of empowering and supporting youth through challenging times. It was a heartwarming experience uniting for a cause that goes beyond material gifts, embodying the true spirit of the holiday season.
$110,841. 15
ABΦΩ’s SPENDING POWER IN 2024
What an incredible display of unity and determination from everyone involved in harnessing our spending power for the betterment of Black-owned businesses! Over the past eleven months, we have witnessed an inspiring surge in economic prosperity as we collectively supported and boosted the growth of Black and minority-owned businesses.
Through initiatives like Wear Pink, Spend Green, and Buy Black, we have demonstrated the tremendous impact of our combined purchasing power. The ongoing drive to meet Alpha Kappa Alpha's International goal of spending $8 million monthly showcases our unwavering commitment to elevating businesses and transforming lives.
Let's maintain this fantastic momentum and strive for even greater accomplishments as we build and strengthen our economic wealth together!
Over 31,133 community votes cast in the 2024 AKAdemy Awards
On November 16, 2024, a vibrant celebration filled the air as we came together for the AKAdemy Awards, honoring outstanding leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs within the African-American community What makes the AKAdemy Awards truly exceptional is the power of community engagement, with honorees chosen by the people themselves This year, an astounding 31,133 votes were cast, capturing the true essence of community participation The passion and dedication of these nominees and winners not only shine brightly within the AKAdemy Awards but also have a profound impact on the communities of Grand Prairie, Irving, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas. Let's continue to soar with AKA and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our community!
Constable Sandra Lee
Tarrant County Constable's Office Precinct 7
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2024 WINNERS!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the 2024 Black Excellence AKAdemy Awards winners. Their accomplishments serve as beacons of inspiration for generations to come We honor their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence by recognizing and applauding their achievements. These individuals have made a lasting impact on their communities and have shattered barriers, paving the way for future generations to thrive. It is through their outstanding contributions that they have earned their place in the AKAdemy Awards
Outstanding Youth Award
Brandis Campbell
Mental Toughness LLC
Outstanding Female Youth Athlete Award
Morgan Rae Eldridge
Track and Field
Mansfield Legacy High School
Outstanding Male Youth Athlete Award
Chance Collins
Football
Mansfield Timberview High School
Youth Advocate Award
Brandis Campbell
Mental Toughness LLC
New Business Award Cinnaholic
Grand Prairie, Texas
Political Powerhouse Award
Michael Evans
Mayor of Mansfield, Texas
The Alisa Simmons’ Social Impact Award
Ebony Turner, Esq.
Community Leader
Women Empowerment Award
Ebony Turner, Esq.
Community Leader
Community Impact People’s Choice Award
Black Women’s Wall Street
Mansfield, Texas
Most Valuable Partner Award
Dr. Benita Reed
Mansfield ISD School Board Trustee, Place 6
Influencer Award
Black Mansfield Moms
Mansfield, Texas
Community Builder Award
Kevin Locks
GP Chamber of Commerce, Black Owned Business
Collective
Newsmaker of the Year Award
Dr. Jandel Crutchfield
Mansfield ISD School Board Trustee, Place 2
Volunteer of the Year Award
Kenya Buckley
Carol's Promise Sickle Cell Foundation
Best Church Choir Award
Bethlehem Baptist Church Mansfield, Texas
Best Church Award
Bethlehem Baptist Church Mansfield, Texas
Best Community Event Award
HBCU Fair and Black Business Expo
Historic West Mansfield Texas Community Development Corporation
Educator of the Year Award
Dr. Christa Tillman-Young Associate Principal, Alma Martinez Intermediate School, Mansfield ISD
Best Black Owned Business Award
Mama Moore’s Popcorn
Grand Prairie, Texas
Best Youth Group Award
Alpha Ambassadors
Arlington / Grand Prairie, Texas
Best Kid Entrepreneur Award
Mila Dyer
Mila's Lemonade Stand
Best Food Truck Award East Coast Flavors
Best Place For Sweets Award
A Bit of Southern Charm Ashanti Rideaux
Best Black Owned Restaurant / Caterer Award
Come Eat with Mike Mike Clerkey
Best Barbershop Award JD Black
Mansfield Fieldhouse Mansfield, Texas
Best Realtor Award Sparkle Harris
Best Doctor Award
Dr. DeShawndranique Gray, MD Gynecology
Best Dentist Award
Dr. Kimberly Walker Parson
Revive Family Dentistry
Best Attorney Award
Ebony Turner, Esq.
The Law Office of Ebony M. Turner
ALPHA BETA PHI OMEGA GIVES
YOUTH TALENT DONATIONS
Let's talk about the AKAdemy Awards Production Team and Entertainment! Composed of talented young minds with a zest for Live Production, Dance, Music, Directing, and graphics, these students from Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian form the backbone of this vibrant team.
Xplosive Dance Company – Entertainment
Kamryn Williams – Entertainment
Orion Jean – Producer / Director
Joshua Bowens – Photographer / Videographer
Jonathan Bryant – Photographer / Videographer
They are the heartbeat behind the AKAdemy Awards, deserving a resounding round of applause and unwavering encouragement. The Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter presented each with tokens of our love and encourages them to further their craft in the industry. This ceremony is not just about the awards; it’s a testament to the power of community involvement, with nominations, votes, and production all flowing from the heart of this very community. So, let's cheer on these amazing youths as they brought their creativity and dedication front and center for all to see!
2024 SPONSORS
Horatio and Angie Porter
Black Carpet Sponsors
Cherry Elder
Empower Our Families Category Sponsor
Robert and Tamika Barkers
Build Our Economic Wealth Category Sponsors
Donna and Kellie Nikkol Williams
Advocate for Social Justice Category Sponsors
UpliftOur Local Community Category Sponsor
Carisma Ramsey Fields and Kennedy Fields
Best of the Best Category Sponsors
2024 SPONSORS
Award Category Sponsors:
● Kiffany Banks, Lifetime Achievement Award
● Andrea Cook, Best Attorney Award
● Rochelle Heslip, Best Realtor Award
● Rae Palmer, Educator of the Year Teacher Award
● Linda Tezeno, Volunteer of the Year Award
● Lesley and Wanda Varner, Outstanding Youth Award
● Tanya Johnson, The Alisa Simmons Social Impact Award
● Sharon Marshall, Women Empowerment Award
● Yolanda Sampson, InfluencerAward
● Dawn James-Russell, New Business Award
● Gwendolyn Terry, Best Kid Entrepreneur Award
● Marvin and Raquel Sutton, Community Builder Award
● Kiara Henry, Outstanding Female Youth Athlete Award
● Tamra Fortenberry Shaw, Best Doctor Award
● Miriam Bennett , Youth Advocate Award
● Dr. Benita Reed, Community Impact People’s Choice Award
● Mayor Michael Evans, Newsmaker of the Year Award
Donors:
● Twasanna Lewis – Soaring to GreaterHeights Level
● Daphne Smith – Soaring to Greater Heights Level
● Pamela Harmon – Soaring to Greater Heights Level
● Melinda Pugh – Shining Star Level
● Sherry Butler – Shining Star Level
● Katrina Mabry-Smith – Shining Star Level
It’s
time
to flex our buying POWER and SUPPORT over 50 VENDORS!
Join us for an exciting event at the Black Business Expo Holiday Edition! The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter, the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce, and the Grand Prairie Family YMCA are thrilled to host this special occasion on December 7, 2024, at the Grand Prairie Family YMCA in Grand Prairie, Texas.
Come and experience the magic of the BLACK DOLLAR as we support our black entrepreneurs through our "Minding My Black Owned Business" Pop-Up Shop Bring the whole family for a visit to Santa’s Workshop and enjoy some delicious treats from the food trucks!
Calling all entrepreneurs! Don’t miss the networking power hour at noon with the amazing Brittney Adams, Founder & CEO of Focus & Frame Eyewear.
Mark your calendars for this unforgettable event - it's going to be a day filled with joy and empowerment for our community!
We invite you to join us in commemorating milestone in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Together, let's celebrate the vision, ideals, our founders and the impact they have communities
Thank you for your unwavering support, seeing you at The Hurst Conference Center 2025, for an unforgettable Founders' Day
Speaker: Dr Cheryl Polote Williamson is a nationally acclaimed multi-best-selling author, Editor-inChief of Cheryl Magazine, awardwinning filmmaker and executive producer, transformational speaker and certified success coach CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
With over 1,046 chapters spanning across the globe, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has a rich history of making a lasting impact within our communities We firmly believe that by working together and combining our resources and efforts, we can maximize our potential and create an even greater change Our Chapter Collaboration Program, is aimed at promoting excellence, service, and a global showcase of best practices
Our goal is to foster a culture that encourages collaboration, celebrates local change, and highlights the significant impact our chapters have on a global scale. We believe that by uniting our strengths and knowledge, we can truly make a difference
As you may know, our organization is dedicated to the mission of "Service to All Mankind," and we are excited to share an opportunity for collaboration with you. We would greatly appreciate the opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and join forces in our mission. Together, we can create a big impact within our community and beyond
If you are interested in collaborating with the Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at abphio.program@gmail.com. We would be thrilled to connect with you and discuss the possibilities
Thank you for considering this collaboration opportunity We look forward to the potential of working together and making an even greater difference.
Graduate Membership
Alpha Kappa Alpha cultivates and encourages high scholastic and ethical standards, promotes unity and friendship among college women, alleviates problems concerning girls and women, maintains a progressive interest in college life, and serves all mankind through a membership of more than 360,000 women worldwide.
Graduate membership is by invitation only and is not solicited through a graduate chapter. The Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter will host public events, such as forums, cultural presentations, and social activities for individuals to learn about service activities we offer to our local communities.
For information on becoming a member of the Sorority, visit our corporate at https://aka1908.com/membership/prospective-members/.
About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) is an international service organization founded in 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D C It is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American, college-educated women Alpha Kappa Alpha comprises over 350,000 members in 1,061 graduate and undergraduate chapters in the United States, the U S Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Japan, Liberia, South Africa and South Korea. Led by International President and CEO Danette Anthony Reed, Alpha Kappa Alpha is often hailed as “America’s premier Greek-letter organization for African American women.” For more information on Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and its programs, visit www.aka1908.com
