The Connector January 2023

January 2023 Edition

Soror Nadine Vargas Stewart Mid-Atlantic Regional Director and Editorial Director

Soror Eugenia Gardner MAR Communications Chairman

Soror Stephanie Davenport MAR Newsletter Chairman

Soror Carshia Lomo-David MAR Graphic Design Chairman

EDITORIAL ADVISORS

Soror Ade’Leaka McMillan Gore, MAR Chief of Staff

Soror Ayana Hernandez, Media Relations and Production Chairman

MAR NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE

Soror Sherry Hunt

Soror Tiara Sanders Soror Jacqueline Brown Smith Soror Gena Chandler Smith

MAR GRAPHIC DESIGN COMMITTEE

Soror Shauna Lewis Soror MiKayla Raines

The Connector Newsletter: Official Organ of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated® Mid-Atlantic Region

On the cover: Soror Nadine Vargas Stewart with Soror Clara Hines, 14th Mid-Atlantic Regional Director

Undergraduate Cluster Coordinator, Soror Taylor White and Graduate Cluster Coordinators Soror Iman Moore, Soror Rhonda McCoy, and Soror Lillian Morgan poses with Madam Regional Director, Soror Nadine Vargas Stewart, during the Northern Carolina Cluster Meeting.

being in such a way that you have very little to “jingle” about at all. My sister, I hear you. I see you. I am you. You are not alone. We are our sister’s keeper.

In this season, may we extrapolate tenets from various faith practices to adopt in our daily deportment so that we may be present and affirming, first to ourselves, and in beautiful and tangible ways, to others who experience a deep sense of loss and disconnect during a time when our society has normalized celebration, gift giving, and posting familial gatherings in matching pajamas. Whether you cook a feast for a household of one or 99, I wish you rest. Rest for a year of return to normal, despite abnormality. Rest for your soul that bears witness to violence and pain. Rest for your mind that holds brilliance, curiosity, and fear. Rest for your body that signals you to replenish, all while you pour from emptiness into others who are quenching for thirst. Rest for all the parts of you that serve all mankind with a smile, even if joy is lacking in your being. My sister, I hear you, I see you, and I am you.

In the Christian faith, Saint Nicholas Day represents the practice of gift-giving. Find a way to give yourself the gift of you. When was the last time you had a date with yourself? You are worth it! Get the mani/pedi. Netflix and chill in your pj’s or your evening gown! You are oh so pretty and deserve it. In the words of Audre Lorde, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence; it is preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”

The Buddhist faith celebrates Rohatsu (Bodhi Day), which is celebrated through meditation. Meditation allows us to build our agency

to manage stress, focus on the present, and reduce negative emotions. This is a practice we may adopt throughout the year, particularly during this overspending, overextending and overwhelming season.

In mid-late December, some honor the Winter Solstice and use it as a time to recognize the symbolism of rebirthing and our powerful connection with nature. Find time to be present in our beautiful surroundings. Take a walk. Sit in a park and soak in the laughter of children. Connect with a soror and consider engaging in this practice together. Share with one another something you wish to create or resuscitate. In the tradition of this celebration, sometimes our most incredible next steps manifest after our longest night.

Look for ways to incorporate the beloved principles of Kwanzaa, not only during this season, but throughout the year. Our sisterhood is founded upon the unity of our family and community (Umoja), selfdetermination (Kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (Ujima), cooperative economics (Ujamaa), purpose (Nia), creativity (Kuumba) and faith (Imani). Have a Karamu (the communal feast) with a few chapter sorors and gather to celebrate. It is a wonderful expression not steeped in commercialism, religion, or faith practice.

Sisters, let us collectively “help each other” during this Dickens of a season. For some of us, it is “the best of times,” and for others, it is “the worst of times.” Let us lift each other and love on each other through it all. Let’s create space

to check in, make extra space at our dinner table, and connect over co ffee, a watch party, or a movie. Just make room. In this season, find ways to replenish yourself and connect with a sister. Two things can be true simultaneously; we’ve never been women to shy away from a challenge.

As we bid farewell to 2022 and set our most radical and revolutionary intentions for 2023, let us carry love for ourselves, love for each other, and love for our illustrious sisterhood. My sister, I hear you. I see you. I am you. You are not alone. You are loved.

GRADUATE PROGRAMHighligs

ALPHA ZETA OMEGA DURHAM, N.C. SISTERLY REUNION AND REACTIVATION TAILGATE

The Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter held its Sisterly Reunion and Reactivation Tailgate Saturday, September 24, 2022, at Merrick Moore Park in Durham, N.C. Sorors spent quality sisterly time bonding with food, games, conversation, and a few strolls. This PEARLfect tailgate experience also provided an opportunity to meet newly reactivating and transferring members.

DELTA OMEGA PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA

“I AM MY SISTER’S KEEPER” PAINT NITE

NT NITE

Since its founding on February 26, 1921, at Virginia State University, the dedicated women of the Delta Omega Chapter have remained steadfast in serving mankind and the Petersburg community. On Friday, September 30, 2022, chapter members, newly reactivated and transferred Soror’s joined the Membership Committee in its “I Am My Sister’s Keeper” Paint Nite. The signature event was funfilled with laughter, comfort foods, and dancing.

LAMBDA KAPPA OMEGA Fairfax, VA

Kozy Kerchief™ and Kozy Kap™ Community Service Event

The Educational and Charitable Foundation (ECF), working with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Lambda Kappa Omega chapter, hosted their annual breast cancer awareness and support program, Kozy Kerchief™ and Kozy Kap™ in October. For over 20 years, these two organizations have offered breast cancer awareness, prevention, and support services and have supported thousands of cancer patients throughout the U.S.

Volunteers created kaps and kerchiefs and helped package these items for donation to local cancer and wellness centers in Fairfax County, Northern Virginia, and surrounding areas. Community members were invited to volunteer alongside the chapter to help sew, package and deliver the items. With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event also provided information on local and national prevention and treatment resources. “You only need a heart of service and compassion,” said Lambda Kappa Omega President Soror Sanita Walker Vesper.

LAMBDA DELTA OMEGA MARTIN COUNTY, N.C.

MARTIN COUNTY CANDIDATES’ FORUM

Lambda Delta Omega Chapter cosponsored a political forum with the candidates for sheri ff, board of education and county commissioners. It was held at the E.J. Hayes Alumni Center and was well attended. This was the first local forum to be held in Martin County.

The Pink Power Up

Omega Rho Omega’s (ORO) Uplift Our Local Community initiative, along with community partner Dillard’s Department Store at Short Pump (Henrico, Virginia), honored Breast Cancer Month and survivors Saturday, October 8, 2022, at the private event, The Pink Power Up.

Survivors openly shared their breast cancer journey, but no testimony was more touching than that of ORO’s Soror LaDonna Lewis. Soror LaDonna, tearfully expressed how her family’s history saved her life but how she had to fight to be tested because of her age. Soror LaDonna survived breast cancer at age 27. Twenty-three women were graced with eyebrow and eyelash tutorials and LaMer facials. Survivors indulged in a continental breakfast, a selfie station, and gift bags. Dillard’s also educated participants on proper brassiere care and storage, as well as how to purchase bras and when. Dillard’s bra fitting experts also addressed prosthetic bras and inserts, as well as other mastectomy solutions.

OMEGA RHO OMEGA FOUND GUILTY

Omega Rho Omega Chapter sorors have been found guilty of painting Metro Richmond pink and green, engaging in fellowship and fun and several counts of sisterly bonding.

and eral wn alled mbers as

Members receiving clues only knew who they would be dining with once they reached their restaurant destination. Held during Richmond Restaurant Week, several local and chain restaurants were patronized by sorors. The City of Richmond, Virginia, and surrounding counties were on high alert due to the rumors of the pink and green invasion. Rumors had been circling for weeks of the possible takeover Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

Although found guilty of pink and green joy and merriment, sorors said they would do the retention activity again.

BIG SCREEN BONDING

Oasis Market Garden is a nonpro fit addressing food insecurity. The organization has created organic gardens that produce fresh vegetables for the citizens of Charles City County and The Storehouse, a food pantry serving the community since 2020.

On (O th W

On September 28, 2022, Omega Rho Omega (ORO) strengthened its sisterhood by patronizing the anticipated and well-received movie The Woman King. The film, based on the Agojie, an allfemale army that existed in the 1800s to protect the kingdom of Dahomey (modern-day Benin) in West Africa, evoked passion, purpose, empowerment, and community. ORO members donned salmon pink and apple green and completed the mission of having a good time and supported the 2022-2024 program initiative Build Our Economic Wealth.

IN THE GARDEN Supporting the Uplift Our Local Community Initiative, Omega Rho Omega (ORO) returned to Promise Land Pastures in Charles City County, Va., September 17, 2022, to work with the Oasis Market Garden.

PI RHO OMEGA CHESTERFILED COUNTY, VA

ROLL BOUNCE SKATE PARTY

Pi Rho Omega Chapter hosted a Roll Bounce Skate Party on October 16, 2022, at Chester Skateland, the first “Strengthen Our Sisterhood” activity. Sorors “hit” the floor in personalized skates, light-up wheels, pompoms, and crazy laces, all in honor of sisterhood. There were plenty of laughs, a few “hold-on don’t-let-me-fall” moments, and lots of sisterhood support. Special thank you to Sorors from Omega Rho Omega, Delta Omega, Upsilon Omega, and Rho ETA Omega chapters for joining us in this fun-filled sisterly event. Soror Glenice DanielChambers, basileus, and Trilizsa Trent, Anti-basileus/ Program-Chairman, lead Rho Omega Chapter.

PHI OMEGA WINSTON-SALEM, VA

PROGRAM IMPACTS 350 K-12

STUDENTS

SUICIDE AWARENESS FORUM

On September 27, the Pi Rho Omega Chapter held its first Mental Health Awareness Forum under the Empower Our Families initiative. The Suicide Awareness Event was free and open to the public. We were fortunate enough to have four panelists from area schools and a team of black female counselors. The audience gained data information on what is seen within our community and in the schools. The chapter distributed support information. Special thank you to one of our newest sorors, Pranati Walker, who led this momentous event.

Led by the Community Day Committee, the Phi Omega Chapter hosted its first inperson Annual Community Day event since 2018. The event aimed to provide local K -12 students with the tools for success in the upcoming school year. This event began with a welcome from Phi Omega Chapter Basileus,Soror Evelyn Acree, Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough, and a performance from the Powerhouse Cheerleading Team of Winston-Salem State University. A total of 280 WinstonSalem residents were provided with complimentary refreshments, health screenings, physicals, and voter educational literature. Eligible attendees registered to vote. Through generous donations from chapter members, community members, and local businesses and organizations, more than 1,200 books, 17,000 school supplies, and 500 t-shirts were collected and distributed. Survey data revealed that these items benefitted 348 K-12 students in the Winston-Salem community.

K-12 students in unity.

PSI RHO OMEGA Loudoun County, VA

PSI RHO OMEGA BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS

Strength is looking back and seeing what you have been through and knowing you were strong enough to make it through. This October, the Psi Rho Omega Chapter celebrated Breast Cancer Survivors by showering them with love. The Chapter requested all sorors wear pink, but wearing pink just wasn’t enough. Before the chapter meeting, survivors were asked to share with the chapter: “How did they feel when they first received the news of their diagnosis?” What message of encouragement would they give to a woman who has been diagnosed with breast cancer? Their words were amazing; having them here serving alongside chapter members is truly a blessing. The chapter’s message: “To all our Survivors, you’re an inspiration to those who know you are walking in faith and seeking God’s strength. For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord.”

BI-ANNUAL HIGHWAY CLEAN-UP

The Psi Rho Omega PROudly conducted bi-annual highway clean-ups through the Virginia Department of Transportation to Enhance Our Environment. More than 25 chapter members and community volunteers gathered at Mercer Middle School to clean the two-mile stretch of Gum Spring Road. Following the service activity, participants were greeted by speakers blasting Set it Off, and of course, sorors were ready! For members, this provides an excellent opportunity to not only Enhance Our Environment but also to Soar in the great Alpha Kappa Alpha sisterhood.

OMICRON KAPPA

APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY

BRAS FOR BREAST CANCER

Omicron Kappa hosted a Bras for Breast Cancer event where participants learned about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and decorated a bra for breast cancer patients or survivors. Participants were also encouraged to write a motivational card for those still fighting.

OMICRON IOTA GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

MIRRORS AND MENTAL HEALTH

The Omicron Iota Chapter at George Mason University hosted an event called “Mirrors and Mental,” providing a platform for students to discuss mental health challenges they have experienced during their college years. The chapter provided students with tools, skills, and resources to improve their mental health in college. The event also opened the door for Black women to fight against the stigma against mental health in the Black community and raised more awareness

Reflectis:

Whatitmeanstobea UndergraduateClusterCoordinator

KAMRYN JOHNSON Tidewater Undergraduate Cluster Coordinator

Greetings Undergraduates!

I am Soror Kamryn Johnson and I am excited to represent the Tidewater Cluster in the MidAtlantic Region’s inaugural class of Undergraduate Cluster Coordinators. In the academic realm, I am in my fourth year of a five year MBA program with a minor in Leadership Studies at Hampton University.I am a Fall 2021 initiate into the Gamma Theta chapter where I served as the Anti-Basileus for the Spring 2022 Semester and the interim President from May to September 2022. At Hampton, I serve as the Female Co-President for the

Hampton University Five Year MBA Leadership Application Program, Social Media Coordinator for the James T. George School of Business Bigs, and I am a member of the Sigma Beta Delta Honor Society. When I am not focusing on school work or my extracurriculars, you can find me hanging out with my sisters, friends, or family. I am an avid K-Pop stan who LOVES to meet other K-Pop stans.

Now that you know a little more about me and what I like to do, I first want to say that I am humbly honored to serve in such an esteemed role in the region. And as you

may know, any new leadership role comes with a learning curve and I have taken it in stride. Since my appointment as Undergraduate Cluster Coordinator,, I have been able to gain a deeper understanding of our illustrious sorority. I have had the opportunity to connect with many sorors at the undergraduate and graduate levels. (A very special shout out to my fellow undergraduate cluster coordinators, Sorors Morgan, Leia, Deja, and Taylor and the Tidewater Cluster Coordinator, Soror Aurelia!)

Aside from learning, I have been able to curate goals that I want to reach as an

benefit from extra “woman” power. This is a great way for General Members to become CONNECTed to Sorors in their area, widen their network and support the international program initiatives.

Thank you to everyone who joined the fireside chat and submitted their questions. The liaisons look forward to working with MadamRegional Director and members of the leadership team to develop ways to increase General Member engagement, participation and communication.

For questions or assistance, General Members should contact Soror Allison Baker at gmliaison-va@midatlanticaka. org or Soror Tiwanna Nevels at gmliaison-nc@midatlanticaka.org.

CONNECTING THROUGH KNOWLEDGE SHARING

Quarterly Fireside Chats will serve as a way for General Members to CONNECT with the Regional Director and learn firsthand about regional initiatives and updates from the Alpha Kappa Alpha corporate office.

Mini Workshops will help interested sorors seamlessly transition back to a local chapter with helpful information on sorority documents, parliamentary procedure or even protocol.

Opportunities to share talents and skills on regional committees will be available later in 2023 as the Soror Skills Form is reopened.

AGift

By Soror Jacqueline Brown-Smith and Soror Tiara Sanders

As women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, we are fortunate to have such a beautiful and supportive community. During the holiday season, we have the opportunity to reflect not only on our sorority but the support of our families and communities. Without them, it would be impossible for our sisterhood to be “supreme in service to all mankind.” In November, sorors expressed gratitude for family, sisterhood, grace, health, and the incredible gift of life during the “Week of Gratitude” on the Mid-Atlantic Region’s Facebook and Instagram pages. These reflections sparked joy and reminded us that gratitude is integral to our sisterly bond and personal well-being.

Expressing gratitude brings many benefits. One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost our mood is to be grateful. Focusing on the things we have to be grateful for can help shift our perspective and improve our outlook. Research also shows gratitude provides impressive health benefits, from reducing stress to boosting

of Gratitude

immunity. Taking a few minutes each day to express gratitude for the good in our life can make us all feel better mentally and physically. We can express gratitude daily in the following ways:

Say thank you more often - be appreciative of the small things

Write a handwritten letter to someone you’re grateful for Donate to a worthy cause in someone’s name Pay it forward by doing something nice for someone else Pray, meditate, or focus on the good things in your life

Keep a gratitude journal and write down five things you’re grateful for every day

Being grateful radiates outward and affects those around us in a positive way. We can continue the “Week of Gratitude” by connecting with sorors daily to express our gratitude and serve our communities. Together, we can SOAR in service with a grateful heart!

MAR Connection and Social LEAD

Mid-Tm V

NORTH CAROLINA

CONNECTION

AND SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE WEEK OF ACTION

By Soror Jessica Holmes

The North Carolina Connection & Social Action Committee hosted a Week of Action leading into the 2022 General Election. The Week of Action kicked off on October 31, 2022, with Spooky Statistics on why voters should make their voices heard at the polls. The Commitee also hosted two community virtual information sessions. Our Voting Rights and Your Ballot session featured expert panelists Yolanda Taylor, Esq., Center for Community Law & Equity, Daryl Atkinson, Esq., Forward Justice, and Kamaria Lawrence, Democracy, NC.

The State of Black Women’s Economic and Maternal Health information session focused on pay inequality, recent student loan reforms, health implications of Medicaid

Expansion, and legislative efforts to address black maternal health. The discussion featured expert panelists Nicole Dozier , NC Justice Center, Karida Giddings , NC Black Alliance, and Jaylon Herbin , Center for Responsible Lending. MAR social media platforms were engaged to share important election dates, sample ballots, and poll site information, and encouraged sorors to soar to the polls together and to bring our family and friends along. The North Carolina Soaring to the Polls initiative ended with a buy Black and support women entrepreneurs call-toaction mobilization.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® North Carolina chapters participated in nonpartisan election efforts from voter registration, hosting candidate forums and community information sessions, and getting out the vote. The NC Connection and Social Justice Committee continues to plan ways to engage, educate, and mobilize voters throughout the state.

Secrets toSog

A Letter from Soror Samantha RDL Richards

Greetings, Marvelous Mid-Atlantic Region!

In July of 2022, I was appointed as your Mid-Atlantic Representative to the International Program Committee. I am genuinely excited that Sorors of this great Region are ready to SOAR with Madam Supreme Basileus, Soror Danette Anthony Reed, under the new 2022-2026 Administrative Theme – Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood™. The International Program Committee is blessed to be chaired by Soror Toria Fredrick, from the South Central Region. She understands the vision of our Madam Supreme Basileus and ensures we are in alignment. As a committee, we are committed to “Helping Sorors Soar”!

Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood™ consist of one Foundation Initiative and five Program Initiatives:

Strengthen Our Sisterhood

Our Families

Our Economic Wealth

Our Environment Advocate for Social Justice Uplift our Local Community

in the New Year WELLNESS & S f-ce

By Soror Tracyavon Ford, LCSW-R, General Member

The New Year brings along many new resolutions. People start the year with the best intentions, but by February, they fall off the wagon. Whether you’re the type to stick to your resolutions or not, it’s always good to reflect on the past year and set some intentions for the year ahead.

One resolution that’s always worth considering is taking care of yourself. This can mean different things to different people. Maybe you want to start going to the gym or eating healthier. Maybe you want to focus on reducing stress or getting more sleep. Whatever it is, resolving to practice self-care is always a good idea, as it helps you feel your best and improves your overall well-being.

So, what exactly is self-care? Simply put, instead of concentrating on temporary goals, self-care focuses on making changes to your lifestyle that you can endure for a lifetime. It’s a strategy for improving every aspect of your life and becoming the best version of yourself.

If you want to make lasting changes in 2023, here are a few things you can resolve to implement in your daily routine.

Sleep well

Your life can be improved by beginning the New Year with a regular sleep schedule and su fficient

rest. Your emotional stability, cognitive performance, and physical health are all signi ficantly influenced by your sleep. Considering how much it affects your mood and performance, it ought to be near the top of your list of self-care activities. You must include set rest periods if you wish to maintain your self-care objectives.

Discover your own solutions

When faced with a problem, we seek a quick fix, and that’s why the solution isn’t long-lasting. But if you figure out a successful coping strategy for yourself, it will bene fit you both now and in the future. Find something you like and turn it into a coping technique rather than implementing suggested solutions that don’t work for you. Make sure it includes activities to satisfy your physical and mental requirements (like working out, meditation, etc.), along with something you already enjoy doing.

Eat well

Being preoccupied with a plethora of concerns and obligations often means we neglect our needs, especially nutritional ones. Giving yourself the time to occasionally prepare a nice meal that will provide you with nutrition and last you a few days is a great way to practice self-care. The benefits of consuming wholesome, nutritious foods are almost immediately felt by our

body and emotions in the form of enhanced functioning capabilities and mood.

Practice Thankfulness

Even amid challenging circumstances, being mindful of your blessings helps you orient yourself toward a positive outlook. Keep a gratitude journal and list what you are grateful for every day. This will strengthen your emotional resilience and lower your stress levels by keeping negative thoughts out of your mind.

Help others

Is there a better way to take care of yourself while taking care of others than giving back to society? You can donate to charities, volunteer at local community centers, or help animals in need; the possibilities are endless. The benefits of lending a hand and aiding those in need can be among the most fulfilling emotions in life, significantly more valuable than money.

Here’s wishing you a great year in which you (hopefully) give yourself the time and attention you require, no matter what strategies you adopt.

Happy New Year!

Follow Soror Tracyavon at https://www.tfordconsulting.nyc

M E N T A L MENTAL W E L L N E S S WELLNESS

By Soror Tiara Sanders

As Alpha Kappa Alpha women, we are busy taking care of business and loved ones while trying to manage our jobs. It's easy to put ourselves on the back burner to ensure everyone else is happy. However, neglecting our self-care needs is not ok, as mental health is a very serious matter and should not be taken lightly.

Dr. Reba Royster, our soror and one of the most innovative mental health professionals in the North Carolina area,brings 20 years of experience to the mental health profession with a focus on trauma and treating a wide range of disorders, such as:

PTSD Depression Substance use/abuse Severe and persistent illness

"After graduating from Shaw University, my husband and I started a nonprofit for group homes which led me to my profession as a therapist," she shared.

Soror Reba's inspiration to become heavily involved in the mental health profession was her husband after learning about his childhood experiences and re flecting on their backgrounds growing up in di fferent households.

"My advice to clients is to 'keep it in perspective.' I say this because you may be going through something di fficult, but could it be worse?" This advice can serve as a great reminder to not compare ourselves to others.

The reality of many could be that they are unsure how to approach seeking a therapist for various reasons. Soror Reba shares that when anyone approaches therapy, it is best to interview a handful of therapists to ensure they are the best fit. "The clients are in control because they can hire or fire the therapist based on their comfortability and progress."

Soror Reba enjoys the challenges she gives to her clients to recognize therapeutic confrontation as she tries to embrace the positive part of their problems. "With no risk, there is no reward - there is no growth, so just seeing my clients recognize their strengths on their own and taking that leap of faith in trusting to talk to someone is beautiful."

She always ensures to include self-care in her routine because hearing and interacting with those sharing traumatic experiences can be heavy. She loves to work out, Net flix and chill, read, and travel for work.

Securing a Fure of Abundance for All

by Gena E. Chandler, PhD.

It’s important to remember that food insecurity affects us all—our families and our communities.

According to recent data published by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 34 million Americans suffer from food insecurity— “the lack of access, at times, to enough food for an active, healthy life.”[1] The causes of insecurity are attributable to many factors including poverty, unemployment, lack of a ffordable housing, systemic racism, racial discrimination. Beneath the numbers, however, is a more troubling narrative of the detrimental e ffects food insecurity has on the physical and emotional well-being of its victims in all aspects of life. For example, many suffering from food insecurity are also struggling to meet rising costs of living and medical expenses. Those persons are faced with an unconscionable decision to choose between basic needs such as paying the rent, transportation, and in many cases, their healthcare. The average cost of medicine numbers in the tens of thousands of dollars. For people already struggling to make-ends-meet in an economy racked with the high costs of in flation and further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability to purchase healthy food let alone handle their other necessities is greatly decreased.

act att plo rac is foo al ex str exp na pa the be alr rac ex to ne e

Despite these dire figures, there are things that you can do to help fight food insecurity in your communities:

1. Become an advocate: speak up for legislation and local policies which help combat food insecurity.

2. Volunteer at a food bank or another food support organization like Feeding America and Meals on Wheels .

3. Donate food to support your local food pantry.

4. Sponsor a food drive or host a meal packing event A meal packing event with an organization like Rise Against Hunger, Inc. Rise Against Hunger sponsors food packing events in communities across America. Check out their website for ways you can participate!

5. Sponsor a family. Family-to-Family, Inc. is a grassroots nonprofit 501(c)(3) hunger and poverty relief organization dedicated to providing food, personal hygiene products and other basic life essentials to American families struggling with the challenges of poverty.

an rt t. e rs a. te! e

New Year, New Financial Goals: Budg r EnomicLegacy

By Soror Jacqueline Brown Smith

~ Sarah Harris, Tamiouchos Alpha Theta Omega Chapter

As we approach the end of another year, many of us are busy making resolutions for the coming months. If one of your resolutions is to get your finances in order, you’re not alone. Nearly half of all Americans make the exact resolution each year. Understanding your financial fitness may seem overwhelming, but as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, resources and programming are available to support this journey. The Building Our Economic Legacy initiative provides opportunities for individuals and the community in the area of financial preparedness, including:

For Members Only Federal Credit Union - the FIRST black-owned woman-led sorority-based digital banking financial institution in the United States; Financial Wellness and Planned Giving - to assist members with legacy planning supported by expert members and wealth management partners; Sister Circles - accountability groups designed to help set and achieve personal savings, investing, and giving goals.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs - promote, celebrate, enhance reach, raise visibility, and offer access to greater revenue-generating opportunities; and

“Being financially fit is the most important element to an individual and an organization when it comes to sustainability and achieving current and long-term fiscal goals.”

Black Dollar Days – leverage buying power to funnel revenue to Black-owned businesses during June.

The start of a new year is a great time to get organized and make a plan for your money. In addition to participating in sorority programming, we have included a few tips from Soror Sarah Harris, Tamiouchos of Alpha Theta Omega Chapter in Raleigh, NC and retired director of financial services for the Public Schools of North Carolina, to help you prepare and manage your financial future for the new year. Soror Harris offers the following recommendations:

Most importantly: Set a budget with consideration of increases/in flation.

Track your expenses Have an emergency fund

Manage your debt. Pay down or pay o ff debt.

Save, Save, Save Set financial goals and stick to them. If you sway, quickly get back on track.

Consider investing

Consider consultation with a financial or wealth advisor.

Connect with soror-owned black businesses. The MAR Business Directory is in the member only section of the website.

Let’s all work together as a sisterhood to “Build Our Economic Legacy”!

Soror Stacy Anderson

UPSILON KAPPA OMEGA Fayetteville, NC

Soror Stacy Anderson retired with a combined 30 Years of service from the United States Army and the Fayetteville Police Department. Officer Anderson worked closely with the homeless and demonstrated exceptional public service to a community that most people would turn a blind eye. She has witnessed the worst conditions and elements of humanity within the homeless community but with her professional approach, a determined mind and concerned heart, O fficer Anderson encouraged, motivated, and shared resources that inspired those men and women to have hope and strive for a better future.

Soror LaShanda Cobbs ALPHA BETA ALPHA OMEGA Springfield and Lorton, VA

LaShanda Cobbs, President and CEO of Optum Serve Preparedness & Emergency Response (OSPER) was selected by G2Xchange and FedHealthIT.com as 2022 Leading for Impact, Women in Leadership Award winner. Building upon Optum Serve’s exceptional response to the COVID-19 pandemic, LaShanda leads a business unit to help customers prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from public health emergencies and other contingencies by leveraging organizational capabilities and technical solutions from across the UnitedHealth Group enterprise. LaShanda’s business provides a strategic and operational end-to-end process for COVID-19 testing and vaccine administration

program management with contracts totaling approximately $1.7 billion.

Soror Chrystal Fray Davis

ALPHA PSI OMEGA Wilmington, NC

Alpha Psi Omega Chapter Basileus Chrystal Fray Davis was recognized as a changemaker during the North Carolina Project Lead’s luncheon for 2022’s Honorees. The recognition was in the category of Lifetime Achievement in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Soror Fray Davis has spent more than 30 years developing her business and serving the community with her State Farm Insurance Agency. She has received numerous national accolades. The Lifetime member was initiated into Theta Alpha Chapter (East Carolina University). She is working on a second master’s degree. The two-day summit included workshops, speakers, a luncheon, and a gala in the Historic Wilmington District.

Soror Regina G. Earp GENERAL MEMBER

On Tuesday, October 18, 2022, The Raleigh City Council appointed Soror Regina G. Earp, Silver Star, General Life member, to a two-year term on the Fair Housing Hearing Board. This term commenced Wednesday, October 19, 2022, and will run through Thursday, October 17, 2024. Meetings are held each month and are open to the public.

The Fair Housing Hearing Board works to improve

DIAMOND SOROR RUTH SMITH CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY!

Happy 100th Birthday to Soror Ruth Anderson Smith!!! Soror Ruth was the first member in the Mid-Atlantic Region to reach Diamond status. Words cannot express how thankful we are for the life and service of Soror Ruth. Since her initiation into the Alpha Chi Chapter in 1940, our Diamond Soror has served all mankind for the past 82 years! As a Rocky Mount native, Soror Ruth’s impact within the Nash & Edgecombe communities spans multiple generations. She has always been a community activist for people of color. Whether being present during a voter registration drive or serving as an active citizen of the Civil Rights Movement, Soror Ruth has been a voice of hope and motivation for many.

Soror Ruth personifies the importance of cultivating and encouraging high scholastic and ethical standards. After obtaining her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Library Science from North Carolina Central University, Soror Ruth’s professional milestones included serving as a fifth-grade teacher and librarian at a local junior high school. Outside of her civic duties and professional accomplishments, Soror Ruth has been an active member of the Chi Omega Chapter. Until recently, Soror Ruth was present at all chapter meetings and events. She is a mother and sister to many chapter members and continues to soar within our sisterhood.

Please join us in celebrating and honoring our most precious Diamond!

CHAPTER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

IOTA KAPPA OMEGA CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Iota Kappa Omega Chapter celebrated the 50th Anniversary of its chartering with "The Golden Gala-Celebrating 50 Years of Service, Scholarship, and Sisterhood in the Greenville, NC Community and Beyond" on November 5, 2022, at 7:00 pm at The Greenville Hilton.

This event featured not only a dinner and silent auction but also the awarding of the Golden Community Service Individual and Organizational Awards. The winners were Arjenae Williams, Visionary and Founder of the area feeding

program, Something to Somebody, and The Jackie Robinson Baseball League, a sports program not only focused on teaching and promoting the sport of baseball but also the holistic nurture of young athletes within the Greenville Community.

The night was also celebrated by tributes to Iota Kappa Omega Charter members and greetings from the city, county, and state elected o fficials. An official proclamation celebrating 50 Years of Service in Greenville was given by Mayor PJ Connelly. N.C. Senator Don Davis and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Member Former NC Chief Court Justice Senator Cheri Beasley brought greetings from the State of North Carolina. Ultimately, the event was rounded out with the soulful stylings of R&B Vocalist Marcel Anderson and DJ Darren “D-Nice” Parker, who hosted a rousing dance party.

Iota Kappa Omega Chapter was chartered on October 28, 1972, and has grown by leaps and bounds–from 16 tenacious charter members to a vibrant membership of 166 strong. The chapter is fortunate to have five serving charter members- Evelyn Jean Carter, Shirley Coward Cox, Ella T. Harris, Helen Johnson, and Verna Smith Mills.

with GRATITUDE Svg

What does it mean to serve with gratitude?

Serving with gratitude is operating with a thankful heart and passing on the gifts of gratitude, love, and sisterliness to our sorors.

Our cluster coordinators have given their hearts, time, and talents to serve the sorors of the Marvelous Mid-Atlantic Region. We are grateful for their sisterliness and leadership as they Soar to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our North Carolina Cluster setting a record of 1300 sorors who gave a warm welcome to Madam Regional Director, Soror Nadine Vargas Stewart. I am so thankful for her vision and support.”

~ Soror Iman J. Moore

©TJ Supreme Media

©TJ Supreme Media

“I was grateful to see how the hours of planning and work came together to make a Noteworthy Northern Western Virginia Cluster meeting. The outpouring of support and love from Sorors filled me.”

~ Soror Sanita M. Resper-Walker

“I am grateful for the experience that all received while in attendance at the Tidewater Cluster. We learned, we socialized, we ate, we gave, we danced, we posed, we shopped BLACK while spending GREEN, but most of all we enjoyed our Saturday, together!”

~ Soror Aurelia Taylor Williams

f all

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY,

~ Soror Lillian Morgan

“I am grateful for exciting and informative workshops, opportunities to grow and learn together, very special guests, and fellowship and sisterly relations activities.”

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY,