2024 SUMMER 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 months of the Greater Tasks to Begin Administration, we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our community and partners in Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and we promise to continue our proactive work in your communities.
In this summer edition of our community newsletter, you will preview what we have accomplished since the last newsletter in the spring We are excited to share our progress with you and look forward to continuing to impact our communities positively.
As our International President and CEO has stated, we are Fired Up and Ready to Soar! The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is incredibly proud to announce that in just our two years of charter, our chapter has been named Chapter of the Year for the second year in a row! This is truly a remarkable achievement and a testament to the innovation and dedication that our members have shown to the communities we serve
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming events and look forward to your continued support. Your presence at these events will not only be a source of encouragement for us but also a testament to our collective commitment to our communities.
Serving with a Vision,
Carisma Ramsey Fields President
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter abphio.president@gmail.com
We are FIRED up and Ready to SOAR!
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is FIRED up and ready to SOAR! Our award-winning impact is on fire as we ignite change in the communities we serve. Winning titles like Chapter of the Year and President of the Year only fuels our passion to make a difference. It is an honor to be acknowledged by the sorority for our dedication and hard work. We are proud to be part of are only just getting started!
ABΦΩ takes top South Central Region honors in YLI.
The Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter secured the title of top South Central Regional Chapter executing the Youth Leadership Institute during the 71st Boule, July 6 – 11, 2024, solidifying our commitment to excellence and innovation in leadership development.
This achievement showcases their dedication to empowering young leaders and fostering a culture of growth and success within their community.
SCR Representative to the International Program Committee with our Chapter President.
Chapter Awards
received during the 92nd South Central Regional Conference in Austin, Texas.
$105,645. 23
ABΦΩ’s SPENDING POWER IN 2024
What an impressive effort of collective events and personal contributions made to build economic wealth! For the past seven months, our efforts have soared and led Black-owned businesses to achieve incredible wealth and prosperity. We Wore Pink, Spend Green, and Brought Black as we harnessed our collective buying power to support Black and minority-owned businesses. Imagine the impact we can make, the businesses we can uplift, and the lives we can transform when we come together as one unstoppable force! Alpha Kappa Alpha's International goal is to spend $8 million each month. Let's continue this momentum and push towards even greater achievements in building our economic wealth!
• IMPACT RECAP:
• 26 Food Trucks
• 5,000 in attendance
• $50,000 in revenue combined between 26 food trucks
• 38 Sponsors
The Taste of Black Mansfield: Food Truck Edition has been the talk around the town, and we couldn't have done it without all you. Your enthusiasm and excitement made the event a huge success.
big THANK YOU to everyone who came out and supported the Taste of Black Mansfield: Food Truck Edition! Your love and support for this event and Black Owned Businesses means the world.
Sorority, 2024, was a everyone who Black Owned highlighted our black Up Shop supporting demonstration of
Green was the new Black for the second year during the Taste of Grand Prairie on June 9, 2024, showcasing our commitment to building economic wealth within the community Through the Alpha Kappa Alpha initiative, Black Dollar Days in June are set to empower and support Black-owned businesses in Grand Prairie, Texas
Excitement filled the air as we spotlighted standout establishments like:
• Billie Joe Coffee Co, 1015 IKEA Pl Suite 200, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
• Smoothie King, 1205 N Arkansas Lane #200, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
• Cinnaholic, 3154 State Hwy 161 Suite 650, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
• ITSO Vegan, 830 Mayfield Rd. #600, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
• Mama Moore’s Gourmet Popcorn, 5244 S. State Highway 360, Suite 310 Grand Prairie, TX 75052
• and The Daiquiri Shoppe, 684 W Pioneer Pkwy Suite 100, Grand Prairie, TX 75051
By channeling our collective buying power, we are championing diversity and strengthening local businesses so they can thrive and flourish within our community.
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
OPEN TO ALL TO PARTICIPATE!
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedÒ, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter celebrated two Phi-nomenal years of impactful service!
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter is thrilled to announce the kickoff of our two Phi-nomenal years of impactful service with 14 Days of Impactful Service, celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service With our mission rooted in "Service to All Mankind," we are calling on the entire community to join us starting August 1, 2024, for two weeks filled with meaningful acts of service. Each day will see a new opportunity to make a difference in Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas, aligning with our 2022 - 2026 International Program, Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood. This is open to everyone, and we wholeheartedly welcome your participation. Upload your photo showcasing your day of service to magnify our impact together. Stay tuned as we share all the inspiring moments on social media throughout our 14 Days of Impactful Service. Let's make waves of positive change together!
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
The Charge: Youth Leadership Institute
YLI supports 5,000+ youth, ages 11 to 13 per year, in their development through the Youth Leadership Institute (YLI). We are soaring with a fantastic group of Tweens ages 11 - 13 who are ready to become leaders. The Youth Leadership Institute is a free, highly interactive, youth-led leadership development program designed to empower and engage youth. We meet on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. CLICK HERE to invite a youth/parent to learn more about this chapter program.
Friday, August 2, 2024
Initiative: Build Our Economic Wealth
The Charge: Support Women Entrepreneurs
On this day, August 2, 2024, patronize women-owned businesses. Remember to upload your photos and receipts.
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
Back to School is around the corner. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter will volunteer at every single Back to School event in each Independent School District in our service area. You can volunteer also by visiting the ISD online and signup.
Sunday, August 4, 2024
Initiative: Advocate for Social Justice
The Charge: Check your voter registration
Let’s start by ensuring each of our registrations is current - expand to our family and the seniors in our communities! Check your voter registration deadlines and laws in your state at vote.gov.
Monday, August 5, 2024
Initiative: Uplift Our Local Community
The Charge: Donate or volunteer at a Local Organization that is doing great work and serving the communities in need in Irving, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Midlothian, Texas.
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
The Charge: Engage in a Random Act of Kindness with one person. Let’s increase the number of positive, supportive, and loving actions we take toward one another. Examples: Send a card, make a phone call, or visit an individual you haven’t seen.
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Initiative: Build Our Economic Wealth
The Charge: Get your Financial House in Order.
Goal Setting: Invest in your financial future. Don't wait until the start of a new year to review your financial goals and objectives. There's no time like the present: Explore how your savings and investments can help you get where you want to be in the future today. Speak and research professionally and personally about “how to” articles can get you started.
Thursday, August 8, 2024
Initiative: Enhancing Our Environment
The Charge: Waste Reduction
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Consider ways to reduce waste in your household and engage in eco-friendly practices.
14 DAYS OF
IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
The Charge: Support Black Entrepreneurs
On this day, August 9, 2024, patronize black businesses. Remember to upload your photos and receipts.
Saturday, August 10, 2024
Initiative: Empower Our Families
The Charge: Mental Health
Focus on yourself today. Get a massage, facial, etc. Use August 10th as a Mental Health Day.
Sunday, August 11, 2024
Initiative: Enhancing Our Environment
The Charge: Plant a tree.
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
The Charge: Take four or more in 24 to vote
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has implemented the Advocate for Social Justice Program Initiative to engage voters during this election cycle to empower communities to advocate for change and participate in local, state, and national elections. The campaign, Take Four or More in 24 to Vote, aims to educate and mobilize members, encouraging them to Soar to the Polls. Make your list of the four or more you plan to take to the polls in November. This Voter Engagement Campaign will mobilize members to facilitate voting for 400,000 individuals, urging each member to ensure at least four people vote. Activities include voter education, registration, and mobilization, spotlighting various voting methods and strategies, such as mail-in, early, and in-person voting.
Tuesday, August 13, 2024 Initiative: Empower
Our Families
The Charge: Childhood Hunger / Random Act of Kindness
The beginning of School is around the corner. Reach out to a parent and pay for a child’s lunch for a week. The average school lunch is 3 dollars a day, and $15 could feed a child for one week.
14 DAYS OF IMPACTFUL SERVICE:
Celebrating the power of community volunteerism and service.
August 14, 2024, is the SECOND Anniversary of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Phi Omega Chapter. Pledge to better your community where you live. A city's boards and commissioners are often overlooked, but they are ground zero for what's happening in the city. Many towns are accepting applications from residents interested in volunteering their service on one of the City’s boards or commissions. Sign up and lend your talents to your community.
CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE TODAY
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CATEGORIES
Get ready for the red carpet, because the AKAdemy Awards 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 – August 31, 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: September 15 – October 1, 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 the AKAdemy Awards. With 22,594 community votes cast in the previous edition, the 2024 awards are expected to generate even greater participation.
In-Person Awards Ceremony: November 16, 2024 at 6pm – Willie Pigg Auditorium
Mark your calendars for November 16, 2024, as that is the day when the much-anticipated in-person AKAdemy Awards ceremony will take place. This glamorous event will bring together renowned personalities, community leaders, and supporters of the African-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 of African-Americans and reinforce the importance of Black excellence.
Join us in supporting the AKAdemy Awards and be a vital part of celebrating African-American community leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs in person. This unique event is all about the people's choice, where honorees are selected and voted by the very community they represent. With opportunities starting at just $25, you can make a significant impact and participate in this empowering and uplifting occasion Your contribution will showcase your support for diversity and inclusion and help us honor and recognize the outstanding individuals making a difference in their communities Embrace this chance to be part of something truly inspiring and meaningful with the AKAdemy Awards Let's unite and celebrate !
Empower Democracy:
Join the Movement as a Volunteer Deputy Registrar and Amplify Voter Participation
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
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 (https://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/bw2-1.pdf) with the new county; the voter registrar in the new county will appoint the person as a VDR and advise of any countyspecific procedures.
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
If you have any valuable comments or suggestions related to our newsletter, we would love to hear from you. Your feedback plays a vital role in helping us improve and deliver content that truly resonates with our community. Please do not hesitate to forward your comments or suggestions to abphio22@gmail.com.
Our goal is to cultivate a sense of connection, collaboration, and learning within our community. By contributing to our newsletter, you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of your fellow community members Together, we can build a stronger, tighter-knit Phi-nomenal community
Thank you for your continued support and engagement We look forward to hearing from you and witnessing the positive impact that your contributions will have on our newsletter
