2024 Spring Edition - Alpha Beta Phi Omega Community Newsletter

2024 SPRING COMMUNITYEDITION

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 onAugust 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 KappaAlpha 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 DanetteAnthony Reed,Alpha KappaAlpha is often hailed as “America’s premier Greek-letter organization for African American women.” For more information on Alpha KappaAlpha Sorority and its programs, visit www.aka1908.com

Your consistent backing has been instrumental in helping us fulfill our organization's mission of serving humanity. Thanks to your genuine involvement, we have significantly impacted the communities of Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian.

Throughout this year, we have witnessed firsthand your dedication and generosity. Your contributions, whether in the form of time or resources, have enabled us to extend our reach and effect meaningful change in the lives of those we serve. With your presence and steadfast dedication, we achieved our goals.

Your support has been pivotal to our success, and we are eternally grateful for your invaluable contributions. We invite you to join us in our upcoming events and initiatives as we continue our mission of fostering positive change in our communities.

We sincerely thank you again for your unwavering support and dedication to our cause. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with you further to continue positively impacting our communities.

Carisma Ramsey Fields President

Alpha KappaAlpha Sorority, Incorporated® Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter abphio.president@gmail.com

DONATIONS NEEDED - MARCH 9, 2024

In the spirit of Women's History Month, Our Chapter’s GenerationNEXT Committee (Members 40 years of age and under) is wholeheartedly dedicated to making a positive impact! They've rolled up their sleeves and are diligently supporting our local women's shelter, Genesis Women's Shelter in Irving, Texas. To echo the call for action of our Sorority’s platform Empower Our Families and Uplift Our Local Community initiative, the committee is gearing up to donate crucial hygiene items and essential supplies to the shelter. How wonderful it is to witness such a strong emphasis on lending a helping hand to those in need during this significant month!

Donation Needs Include:

● Toothbrush and toothpaste

● Hygiene items (i.e., body wash, antibacterial soap, lotion, deodorant, pads, tampons, wipes)

● Hair care products (i.e., mini-shampoo and conditioner)

● Towels and Washcloths

● Packs of Underwear and Bras

● Baby or Children items (i.e., diapers and wipes)

Donation dropoff will be held at UNT Dallas, Student Union on Saturday, March 9 at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. ContactALarria Webb, GenerationNEXTChairman at alarria.webb@gmail.com if you have any questions.

All donated items should be New and Unopened. If you would like to donate other clothing, they should be new or gently used items.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024

CLICK HERE TO BEAVOLUNTEER

The Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter proudly participates in The Big Event in the City of Grand Prairie - a citywide volunteerism day dedicated to enhancing our environment and fostering unity within the community. This one-day event brings together volunteers who are matched with qualifying service projects at homes of individuals in need, creating a meaningful impact in the lives of others. By lending a helping hand and contributing to the betterment of our surroundings, we strive to promote the values of service and community engagement, making a positive difference in the world around us. Hope to see you there on March 23, 2024.

COMMUNITYGARDEN

Located at 4556 S Carrier Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75052

TheAlpha KappaAlpha Sorority, Incorporated®,Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is all about bringing people together for positive change, and their recent collaboration with The Grand Prairie FamilyYMCAand a local Girl ScoutTroop is the perfect example of this!

With the Girl Scouts' innovative integration system and the YMCA's unwavering commitment, this community garden project is bound to blossom into a vibrant hub of togetherness and fresh produce. Get ready to join us on Harvest Day, where the community can gather and enjoy the fruits of our labor! Get ready to see something truly special grow in our neighborhood.

Contact:

abphio.program@gmail.com

Are you looking for a transformative experience for the youth in your community? Look no further than the Youth Leadership Institute,alsoknownasYLI.

As a youth-led and highly interactive leadership development program, YLI aims to empower and engage young individuals between the ages of 11 and 13. Our students have the opportunity to explore and gain valuable insights into a wide range of careers, thanks to the phi-nomenal hands-on learning experiencesweprovide.Wetakegreatpride in the impact we make on the lives of our youth, andwearegratefultothededicatededucators whose service ensures the success of our program.

Join us at YLI, where the leaders of tomorrow arediscoveredandnurtured.

Important 2024 Election Dates

Tuesday, March 5, 2024 - Primary Election

Last Day of Early Voting

● Friday, March 1, 2024

Last day to Receive Ballot by Mail

● Tuesday, March 5, 2024 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is not postmarked, OR Wednesday, March 6, 2024 (next business day after Election Day) at 5:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply)

Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Uniform Election Date (Limited)

Last Day to Register to Vote

● Thursday,April 4, 2024

First Day of Early Voting by PersonalAppearance

● Monday,April 22, 2024

Last Day toApply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked)

● Tuesday,April 23, 2024

Important 2024 Election Dates

Saturday, May 4, 2024 – Uniform Election Date (Limited)

Last Day of Early Voting by PersonalAppearance

● Tuesday,April 30, 2024

Last day to Receive Ballot by Mail

● Saturday, May 4, 2024 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is not postmarked, OR Monday, May 6, 2024 (next business day after Election Day) at 5:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply)

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 – Primary Runoff Election

Last Day to Register to Vote

● Monday,April 29, 2024

First Day of Early Voting

● Monday, May 20, 2024

Last Day toApply by Mail (Received, not Postmarked)

● Friday, May 17, 2024

Important 2024 Election Dates

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 – Primary Runoff Election

Last Day of Early Voting

● Friday, May 24, 2024

Last Day to Receive Ballot by Mail

● Tuesday, May 28, 2024 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is not postmarked, OR Wednesday, May 29, 2024 (next business day after Election Day) at 5:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply)

Join the Movement as a Volunteer Deputy Registrar and

By becoming a Volunteer Deputy Registrar in 2024, you can actively empower our community and amplify voter participation. With the upcoming elections just around the corner, we understand each individual's crucial role in ensuring a fair and inclusive democratic process.As a Volunteer Deputy Registrar, you will have an indispensable impact on our society by registering eligible voters and equipping them with the necessary tools to exercise their right to vote. As a friendly reminder, you don't need prior experience to become a Volunteer Deputy Registrar. Counties provide comprehensive training sessions to equip you with all the necessary knowledge and skills. Whether you are a first-time volunteer or someone with years of experience, there's a place for everyone in our movement.

https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/bw2-1.pdf)

Any person who has previously taken the VDR examination and received a certificate of appointment in one county is not required to take the examination again in another county. The person should submit a Request for Appointment as a VDR (

with the new county; the voter registrar in the new county will appoint the person as a VDR and advise of any countyspecific procedures.

GENERALADMISSION SEATING - $60.00

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS TODAY!

Inaugural Fundraiser: Experience the electrifying world of The DJ vs The Violinist! This dynamic duo, Shaun Ward (violinist) and DJ PK1, come together to deliver a jaw-dropping fusion of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and pop that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to be whisked away by their mesmerizing melodies and infectious beats, creating a musical realm like no other. Get those calendars marked for Friday, April 19, 2024, at 7 PM (CST) at Uptown Theater Arts & Events Center, 120 E. Main Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050. This unique event not only promises an evening of pure entertainment but also serves a noble cause by raising funds to support Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ®, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter program initiatives in the communities of Grand Prairie, Irving, Mansfield, and Midlothian,Texas. Don't miss this unparalleled musical spectacular; secure your tickets today and brace yourself for an unforgettable night!Tickets go on sale on March 1, 2024 via eventbrite.com.

CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE TODAY

Get ready for the red carpet, because theAKAdemyAwards nominations are now open! This glamorous event celebrates the outstanding African-American community leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs in Grand Prairie, Irving, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas. Forget about the stuffy committees – these honorees are chosen by the people, for the people. It's a show where the community's voice matters most, shining a spotlight on those making a real difference in their neighborhoods. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to applaud these exceptional individuals who are truly making waves in their communities!

Nomination Period: Now – May 1, 2024

During this time, individuals from the community will have the opportunity to submit nominations for various categories, including leadership, arts, sports, entrepreneurship, and more.This period is crucial as it allows community members to recognize and appreciate the exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Voting Period: May 15 - July 5, 2024

This is an exciting phase as it gives the community the power to choose and support their favorite nominees. Each vote carries immense weight and plays a vital role in determining the winners of theAKAdemyAwards. With 22,594 community votes cast in the previous edition, the 2024 awards are expected to generate even greater participation.

In-PersonAwards Ceremony:August 10, 2024

Mark your calendars forAugust 10, 2024, as that is the day when the much-anticipated in-personAKAdemy Awards ceremony will take place.This glamorous event will bring together renowned personalities, community leaders, and supporters of theAfrican-American community. It will be an evening filled with celebration, recognition, and inspiration as the winners step on stage to receive their well-deserved accolades.The awards ceremony will serve as a testament to the talent and achievements ofAfrican-Americans and reinforce the importance of Black excellence.

The partnership with the City of Irving continues to thrive!

The City of Irving, with its unwavering support for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter, truly exemplifies the power of community collaboration. Since 2022, their partnershiphasthrived,andtheirdedicationtofosteringunityandempowermentisunrivaled.

The Cimarron Park Recreation Center, the prestigious Black Business Expo hub, has been witnessing remarkable success. During the Juneteenth Holiday weekend, an astonishing 1160 individuals attended this extraordinary event, highlighting the inclusive and vibrant community that Irving cultivates. It is no wonder this partnership continues to flourish, as it consistently puts the community first. Looking ahead to 2024, the anticipation for more impactful events by mid-year is palpable. The City of Irving, together with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter, remains committed topositivelyenhancingthelivesofitsresidentsandpreservingthespiritofunitywithinthecommunity.

It is empowering to witness the Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter thrive in numbers, expand our membership, and lengthen our community reach. Our growth in numbers only strengthens our ability to impact others through service and sisterhood.

abphio.program@gmail.com

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 toAll 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 theAlpha 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.

witnessing the positive impact that your contributions will have on our newsletter. abphio22@gmail.com @abphio