A Timeless Overview of Service Through Zeta Gamma Omega

In the spirit of Ethel Hedgeman Lyle and the founders of this great sorority, Zeta Gamma Omega Chapter in conjunction with the South Central Region remains focused on cultivating and nurturing the development of women who are conscious of their communities, committed to scholarship, and dedicated to service.

Zeta Gamma Omega, the 147th Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, was established on March 28, 1953 in Prairie View, Texas. There were thirteen members received into the chapter; Joan Brooks, Elizabeth E. Calloway, Ella Cullins Weaver, Francille Hardeman, Gwendolyn B. Jones, Kathryn Jordan, Doris Morris King, Lorraine O’Banion, Helen Pierson, Clemmie Saxton, Maggie Swisher, Iris B. Thomas, and Eloise W. Williams. They provided the foundation of sisterhood and community service on which the current chapter stands.

Our service programs have always been a driving force behind the relationships established between the organization and the surrounding communities. Our community projects have served to enhance the image of the sorority in the nearby towns of Hempstead, Waller, Prairie View and Brookshire. We also continue to strive to make a positive impact on the college campus community of Prairie View A&M University. This is all due to the unselfish efforts of members who constantly push the boundaries of charity and giving. One of our annual goals is to create new projects and partner with those who have established worthwhile programs that will benefit the community. Some of the projects include but are not limited to:

• Inoculations for the Hempstead community
• Well Child and Well-Baby Clinics
• Dental services for first grade students and Prairie View Training School
• Diabetic Detection Program (1966 to 1980)
• High-Blood Pressure Detection Program
• Financed examinations and transportation for medical procedures
• Providing cholarships for deserving Young Women
• Elementary to Advanced Reading Programs
• Piano, Choir and Violin recitals

Zeta Gamma Omega also has several organizations in which we generously contribute to financially. Those organizations and efforts are:

• Bethune Cookman Memorial
• Southern Leadership Fund in memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
• Cleaveland Job Corp
• The Tuskegee Vet gift Shop
• Assist in Voters Registration

Zeta Gamma Omega also holds a life membership in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in an effort to uphold the ideals and values that were so bravely fought for before and during the civil rights movement. The idea that a rich history can be used to build a strong future has led to the establishment of several civic minded endeavors which serve as a cornerstone to enhance our grassroots efforts. Our Vocational Guidance Program follows closely to this community building concept.  It is designed to give youths and young adults the tools they need to adequately choose and prepare for a career. There is also the ever popular Debutante Ball, Fashionetta, Sepia Fashion Show, and the Spring Formal.  Each of these serves to encourage scholarship and high ethical standards among young women.

The organization of the Cultural Club for Young Women further bridges the gap between formal event preparation and maintaining high expectations of daily standards. Its purpose is to promote a finer womanhood, appreciation of cultural activities, and consciousness and knowledge of appropriate dress habits. The desire of Zeta Gamma Omega to cultivate an atmosphere of excellence ultimately led to the establishment of the Zeta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

The members of Zeta Gamma Omega Chapter are a community of talented women with diversified interests who have achieved in areas of Education, Civic Affairs and Vocational endeavors. We are dedicated to “Serve All Mankind” and perpetuate and implement the goals of Alpha Kappa Alpha.