Lambda Pi Omega Chapter History
On September 10, 1977, twenty-five (25) determined and diligent young women formed the pearl that came to be known as Lambda Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This innovative Detroit Alumni Chapter was established to fulfill the needs expressed by the growing number of women who wanted to serve the community while developing their leadership potential through active participation and decision-making. The two women who were at the helm of the development of this new chapter were Soror Wanda Black and Soror Jacqueline Billingslea. The leadership of the Regional Director, Soror Madeline Hairsten, was invaluable in facilitating the charter of this new chapter.
Lambda Pi Omega defined for itself a three-fold purpose:
- To promote and develop leadership qualities among its members.
- To foster sisterhood among its members; and
- To develop and nurture those qualities supportive of service to all mankind.
It is with these purposes in the forefront, which Lambda Pi Omega has functioned since its inception.
In carrying through the ideas of the International Sorority, the Sorors of Lambda Pi Omega Chapter over the years have developed dynamic programs consisting of several activities and partnerships with various civic organizations. They are as follows:
- Made annual contributions to the March of Dimes & United Negro College Fund
- Supported the Cleveland Job Corps Center, The Detroit Rescue Mission Ministry
- Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History & Kirkwood Health Center
- Conducted parenting workshops and tutorial sessions at the Reggie McKenzie Foundation
- Clothed Good Fellow Dolls annually
- Hosted Kwanzaa Celebrations and Black History Book Fairs
- Adopted an African Village
- Conducted Parenting Workshops
- Maintained Life Membership in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
- Served as Partners in Math and Science with a local school
- Certified eighteen (18) Members in Adult Literacy
- Maintained active membership and participation in the League of Negro Women
- Served as Mentors for the Educational Advancement Fund, Detroit Association
- Black Organizations, Black Inter-Greek Council, Project Restore, National Council of Christians and Jews
- Certified six (6) Sorors as Trainers through the American Red Cross
- Sponsored HIV/AIDS Informational Forum
- Participated in Detroit Medical Center Conference
- Annual Back to School Rally
- Interfaced with Detroit City Council and to State Representatives in Lansing
- Conducted workshops at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility,
- Interim House for Battered Women and Genesis House II
- Initiated “Sandwich to Go” project at the Cass Community Center
- Supported WJLB “Coats for Kids” campaigns
- Acted as judges for art contests at the Martin Fauve Boys and Girls Club
- Awarded Harold Ford the Outstanding Excellence in Public and Community Service and Chairman of the Democratic Leadership Council
- Donated one hundred hours to prepare tax returns for low income families and individuals
In keeping with the slogan, “Service to All Mankind,” we have sponsored seminars on Teenage Pregnancy, affiliated with the home for unwed mothers and collaborated with urban organizations in strengthening the Black Family. These are just some of the ways in which Every Soror has Participated!
Today our eyes are focused upon the future as we remember our past. Our contributions are minimal compared to the goals we have set. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s history is still in the making as is Lambda Pi Omega’s. As the flame burns, which was ignited by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle in 1908 continues, the Sorors of Lambda Pi Omega shall always be…“A Help to Mankind and a Wreath for Thee.