In observance of the 25th anniversary of the Martin Luther King Day of Service, the Psi Epsilon Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority held its Back to Basics: Meeting the Needs of Our Community event. On January 20 more than 200 members of the sorority worked side by side with local students and community members sorting and packaging canned goods, hygiene products and clothing for those living with homelessness and food insecurity. The event was held at Eleanor Roosevelt High School (ERHS).
“The primary focus of this day is to uplift the theme of ‘A day on, not a day off’ and to serve together as a community,” said Benita Swindell, sorority chapter president. “Alpha Kappa Alpha’s motto is supreme service to all mankind and it’s important that we begin by serving in our local communities.”
Hundreds of canned goods and healthy food items, hygiene products, and men’s and women’s clothing will be distributed to three local organizations: Oaklands Elementary School in Laurel, Laurel area shelters, Bowie Interfaith Pantry and Emergency Aid Fund.
“I volunteered today because I wanted to help my community and do something good to start off my year,” said Kristiana Mateo, an 18-year-old ERHS student.
One student hoped her participation would help break down stereotypes about teenagers.
“People from older generations think we are self-absorbed, and I feel like that’s not true. I believe that any way you can make a difference and honor the memory of Dr. King, you should, and I just wanted to act on that,” said Damaris Moore, a 16-year-old student.
This event supports two of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s global programs: Operation AKA Assist which focuses on supporting populations in need, and its Nutrition and Wellness initiative, which highlights healthy lifestyles.
