by Khalilah Jones

Members of Eta Phi Omega with a portion of the contributions at the Haven

Charlottesville, VA – In an inspiring show of compassion and unity, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s Eta Phi Omega Chapter, under the leadership of president Pamela Brown, has come together to make a difference this winter. On November 4th, members gathered at The Haven in downtown Charlottesville to deliver essential winter warmth items and toiletries for the unhoused. This community service project, spearheaded by the chapter’s Service Project Committee and supported by over 1,000 members from the Mid-Atlantic region, was designed to provide comfort and care to individuals facing challenges associated with homelessness, particularly with the brisk winter approaching.

In the weeks leading up to this event, the Eta Phi Omega Chapter rallied members and resources, gathering a range of necessary items, from warm clothing to hygiene essentials. It’s a commitment that underscores Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s dedication to service—a core principle the sorority has upheld since its inception in 1908. The service project was particularly special for those present, as it highlighted both the pressing need for support during colder months and the power of collective action.

Velvet Coleman, Chair of the Service Project Committee, was on-site to oversee the distribution as well as delivery, and visibly exuded pride in the sorority’s ability to contribute meaningfully and uplift the local community. One goal was to bring some semblance of comfort to those who may feel invisible or forgotten, especially during the surmounting challenges that inevitably come with being displaced. Velvet shares, “It is an honor to serve and be a positive impact in our community.  The generous donations of our sorority members during our conference were greatly appreciated.” We truly hope that through this initiative, that our neighbors at the Haven feel seen and valued.

For The Haven, a local organization offering shelter and services to individuals experiencing homelessness, the collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha couldn’t be more timely. With winter on the horizon, these donations will undoubtedly offer immediate relief to their guests.

Eta Phi Omega members Stephany and Velvet are all smiles as they stand ready to receive contributions for the Haven at the Greater Richmond Convention Center during the regional conference

At the recent conference hosted by Eta Phi Omega, 1000 sorority members of the region, donated bags with gloves, scarves, toiletries, and other essentials, the atmosphere was a blend of palpable joy and genuine gratitude. Members shared personal reflections on the importance of giving back, often touching on how their own lives have been enriched by acts of service.

Capturing the Spirit of Giving
Being part of an organization that cares deeply about uplifting others is incredibly fulfilling. Today, we weren’t just donating items—we were connecting with individuals and learning their stories.

As Charlottesville prepares for colder weather, the Eta Phi Omega Chapter’s service initiative at The Haven stands as a powerful reminder of the impact one organization can make. With members who actively work to embody the spirit of service, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s contributions help reinforce the organization’s mission of “service to all mankind”.

Our work doesn’t end here. We hope others in the community will join in this mission of kindness, generosity and servant leadership.

The service project takeaway? Small gestures, made with love and care, can make a world of difference, especially when temperatures drop and needs grow. Through this initiative, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Eta Phi Omega Chapter is not only helping to keep Charlottesville warm but also showing that the warmth of community spirit is often the greatest gift of all.