The Alpha Theta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., had at least 106 reasons to celebrate Founders’ Day this year. However, the chapter made it a priority to celebrate the purpose of what the sorority was founded on.
“We just wanted to do something to give back to our community,” said Johnson, who celebrated her first Founders’ Day. “Because we are a sorority founded on the principle of service it was only right to dedicate today to that purpose,” Paige Johnson said.
On Wednesday, the sorority’s Founders’ Day, the undergrad chapter at Grambling State University volunteered at the city’s community center after finding out about the event from chapter member Brittan Buggs. It also turned out to be a day full of fun, games and getting to know the locals.
Since 2008, Dr. Grace Tatem has spear headed this program for the senior citizens who live in Grambling and surrounding areas. After receiving a $60,000 grant from the State of Louisiana, Tatem has been able to provide a day filled with food provided by Aramark, games and fun.
“The program primarily population is seniors with a focus on the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Rita,” said Tatem, a former social work professor at GSU.
After retiring in 2009, the program ended, however, she continued it through the help of the city, AARP No. 5240 Grambling/Ruston Chapter, Aramark, GSU School of Social Work and donations.
Throughout the day, chapter members flooded the community center to assist Tatem set up for the day’s activities, along with playing different games with the seniors. Chapter President Raquel Brown was excited with the turnout of the services from chapter members and plans to come back again in the future.
Nursing student Kareese Hobdy said yesterday the chapter showed the true meaning of being Alpha Kappa Alpha women.
“On a day we could have taken to focus on ourselves, we served the community while strengthening our bond as sisters.”
The Gramblinite
Tuesday, April 16, 2024