A Sorority's Legacy of Community Service in Bowie

The Psi Epsilon Omega (PEO) chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. The sorority has been an important part of the Bowie community for more than 15 years. In April the organization celebrated its 15th anniversary with a lot of virtual fanfare that included proclamations and remarks from the governor, the county executive, three mayors, and a hostof distinguished county leaders.

While the accolades, recognitions, and number of members have grown throughout the years, one thing remains the same – PEO’s unwavering commitment to service in the Bowie community. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was founded on the belief that it should strive to be “Supreme in Service to All Mankind”, that’s what we do. Community service develops anincreased sense of social responsibility – a global view of society, a heart for giving back, andhelping others. It affords one the opportunity to build relationships, improve lifelong communication, and develop interpersonal and critical thinking skills.

My role as president of Psi Epsilon Omega is the epitome of my desire to serve my community. Leading a young and thriving chapter comprised of a diverse group of talented and skilled women is very motivating for me. It’s an honor to work alongside such a dynamic group of hard-working ladies who enjoy giving back to the communities in which we serve.

PEO was chartered in 2007, its service areas include Laurel, Bowie, and Greenbelt. Throughout the years we have seen these communities grow in size and need. I had the opportunity to join this chapter when it was “small and mighty”, the growth has been amazing and it happened right before our eyes. We soared from about 52 women when I first joined in 2009 to morethan 500 currently. We are expanding our reach and doing a multitude of great things while  making an impact in our communities. We are also being noticed for our accomplishments.

Over the years our community service has included donating PPE items to local schools, supporting Black businesses, helping students prepare for college, assisting the elderly, providing health-related programs, and fighting food insecurity. Last year we donated nearly 2,000 potatoes to a Prince George’s County food pantry. In 2014 we launched our charitable arm, the Pearl Elegance Foundation which has provided approximately $75,000 in scholarships to Maryland college students.

I think about the next 15 years with excitement. We are utilizing innovative tools to work more efficiently in our chapter operations, embracing the opportunity to have virtual and in-person activities and programs for the communities we serve. I foresee the chapter investing in real estate to accommodate the growth of our members. This space will be used to have meetings and host community activities. I would love to see community members become more involved in our work by collaborating with us to build new and existing relationships while making a difference/impact.

To learn more about PEO visit our website. You can also keep up with the work of the Pearl Elegance Foundation (PEF), by visiting that website. If you want to join us and get involved, follow us on social media, you can find us on Facebook and Twitter @Psi Epsilon Omega and on Instagram @aka_peo1908.