On January 15, 2024, Dillon County Interest Group “Pearls of Promise and Purpose” celebrated Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. 116th Founders’ Day. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated ® (AKA), an international service organization, was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, DC in 1908. It is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated® is comprised of more than 355,000 initiated members in graduate and undergraduate chapters located in 12 countries including the United States, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Dubai, Germany, Japan, Liberia, Nigeria, South Korea, South Africa and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Led by International President & CEO Danette Anthony Reed of Dallas, Texas, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, often is hailed as “America’s premier Greek-letter organization for African American women.”
In November 2023, the International Directorate approved the “Pearls of Promise and Purpose” as an official Interest Group, which is the last phase before becoming a chapter of the organization. This was the only group in the State of South Carolina that was approved. “Pearls of Promise and Purpose” will be serving Dillon County to enhance the quality of education, socioeconomic conditions, community development and health awareness.
The program’s theme was: “Celebrating our Founders”. Rev. Gypsie Murdaugh, Vice President, served as chairman of the event. President Tabitha D. James welcomed everyone, meditation was by Mrs. Myra Bethea, and Mrs. Mariah Thompson-Planter stated the purpose and history of the group. A delicious meal was enjoyed by all of the Dillon members and guests. Ms. Sherina Harley and Miss Latira Armstrong hosted several interactive activities for the group to fellowship and bond. President James thanked everyone for attending and making the program memorable and sending forth was by Rev. Murdaugh. The group selected Dillon County Pregnancy Center for its first service project. Group members donated items to fill 25 gift baskets for expecting/new mothers. The items included, but were not limited to: lotion, socks, candles, hand sanitizer, picture frames, feminine hygiene products, wipes, books and throws. Group members also participated in Dillon’s Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March and Service.
This was a “Day of Service to all Mankind” by Dillon County Pearls of Promise and Purpose.
